A mountain-sea pathway opened Nov 28 in the Qi'ao Island conservation area where mangroves and mountain forests meet the sea. It presents the public with unique natural sceneries, plentiful biodiversity, and popular science education.

The 1.2-km (.74-mile) section is located in the northeast of the Qi'ao-Dangan Island Provincial Nature Reserve. Here thrive abundant fauna such as fiddler crabs, greater coucals (crow pheasants), black kites (birds of prey), and butterflies. 

Qi'ao mangrove forest viewed from new pathway [Photo by Wu Changbin / Zhuhai Daily]

Visitors, especially students, have begun using the pathway to explore natural mysteries under the guidance of educational institutions and organizations. A round trip starting from the entrance of the conservation area takes three hours. 

The nature reserve was the main venue of Zhuhai's promotional events during the 3rd Guangdong Forest Cultural Week, which lasted from Nov 20 to 28. A thousand locals became involved in mangrove discovery, wetland birdwatching, lecture, and handmade experience programs. 

In addition, middle school students and seniors staged one musical each themed on mangroves to emphasize the need to protect natural resources and the ecological environment. Furthermore, a community science program debuted to relate environmental education with distinctive industries on Qi'ao Island.