Chinese mergansers glide gracefully across the water. [Photo/Tide News]

In the early morning mist, an infrared camera set up by the Miaoyuan Creek captured a remarkable scene: Chinese mergansers gliding gracefully across the water.

This vivid footage is part of a comprehensive wildlife resource survey recently completed in Kecheng district, Quzhou, Zhejiang province. Initiated last year, this systematic survey has, for the first time, provided a clear understanding of the district's terrestrial wildlife resources.

The survey recorded 420 species of terrestrial wild vertebrates, including 24 amphibians, 39 reptiles, 318 birds, and 39 mammals.

Notably, 20 new distribution records were verified, including 18 bird species, such as the Chinese barred-backed pheasant and yellow-breasted bunting, and two mammal species.

The data show a significant increase in protected species. National first-class protected species rose from five to nine, an 80 percent increase, while second-class protected species surged from 27 to 60, up 122.2 percent.

The frequent appearance of highly protected species, such as the white crane and Chinese merganser, indicates the district's significant progress in protecting rare and endangered species.

These survey findings will aid efforts to protect the environment and restore habitats.