A rare relict gull is spotted in Zhoushan, Zhejiang province. [Photo/Huang Mingliu]

On Xiaogan Island in Zhoushan, East China's Zhejiang province, two birdwatchers recently captured a rare sighting of the relict gull in a wetland.

The Zhejiang Wildlife Protection Association's wild bird branch confirmed that it was the first recorded observation of this endangered migratory bird in the region.

The relict gull, or Larus relictus, is classified as a vulnerable species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature and is a national first-class protected animal in China.

Qian Cheng, director of Zhejiang Wildlife Protection Association's wild bird branch, said that this relict gull was likely a migratory visitor, pausing briefly in Zhoushan during its journey. The island's pristine environment offers an ideal resting spot for such travelers.

"While it's not unusual for relict gulls to winter in Zhejiang, observations of recent years show sightings in Hangzhou, Ningbo, and Wenzhou, indicating the coastal areas of Zhejiang are favored stopovers and wintering grounds for these birds," Qian said.

The relict gull was one of the last gull species identified by humans, only recognized as a distinct species in the early 1970s.

The relict gull resembles other gulls with its gray wings and black-and-white primary feathers. But during its breeding season, black feathers grow on its head, contrasting sharply with white feathers on its body.