The Qi'ao-Dangan Island Provincial Nature Reserve has been chosen as one of the Top 10 Bird-watching Sites in Guangdong Province, it was announced on Dec 20.

The reserve occupies much of southern Qi'ao Island, which is connected by bridge to Tangjiawan in Xiangzhou District of Zhuhai.

Since early December, the selection had been conducted using online votes and professional assessments of 18 candidates, says the Guangdong Forestry Department. They were recommended mostly by the Guangdong Wildlife Conservation Association and Guangdong Zoological Society.    

The Qi'ao-Dangan reserve is one of only a few in the nation that integrates forests, wetlands, and island ecosystems with wildlife. The Qi'ao mangrove forest conservation area is located along the East Asian-Australasian Flyway, making it an important stopover for birds in autumn and winter.  

Qi'ao-Dangan Island Provincial Nature Reserve [File photo]

The Zhuhai Bird-watching Society observed 182 birds from 50 families in 17 orders at the reserve over the past five years. Nineteen are 2nd Class State-Protected Species, including the black-faced spoonbill, greater coucal, osprey, and black-eared kite (Milvus migrans lineatus).

Bird-watching on Qi'ao

1. The best period is March to May, between 6:30 and 8:30 am. Now to February is best for observing waterfowl, whose behavior is largely impacted by tidal variations.

2. Wear muted clothing that blends into the natural environment.

3. Do not try to lure birds in an improper way.

4. Keep distance when spotting a nest or young bird.

5. Do not damage the habitat.