In winter, flocks of migratory birds came to Nanping Reservoir in Moyu County, Hotan Prefecture, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. On November 19, 2024, these migratory birds were seen flying in the blue sky, looking for food, or sometimes frolicking on the surface of the water, presenting a scene full of vitality.

Photo shows migratory birds frolick on the surface of the Nanping Reservoir in Moyu County, Hotan Prefecture, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. (Photo by Ababaikeri)

In recent years, Hotan Prefecture has deeply implemented the concept of "lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets," continuously intensifying efforts on ecological protection. Through practical measures such as desertification control, afforestation, water pollution prevention, and wetland ecosystem restoration, the sky in Hotan Prefecture has become bluer, land has been greener, and water has been clearer. Every year, more and more migratory birds come to Hotan for winter. Many photography enthusiasts and bird lovers have captured the images of many rare bird species.

Nationally second-class protected animals, such as greylags and mallards, have also flew to Nanping Reservoir. They have transformed from "passers-by" to "frequent visitors."

Wetlands are important habitats for migratory birds and one of the most valuable ecosystems in nature. In recent years, Moyu County has made great efforts in wetland protection, effectively protecting the ecological environment and biodiversity of wetlands through measures such as establishing wetland protection areas, strengthening wetland monitoring and patrol, and providing a broader habitat and foraging area for birds.

Photo shows migratory birds forage at the Nanping Reservoir in Moyu County, Hotan Prefecture, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. (Photo by Ababaikeri)

"As the ecological environment continues to improve, more and more birds have flown here to inhabit. Currently, we have observed dozens of bird species, including the branta ruficollis, bean goose, mallard, and greylag. Next, we will continue to adhere to the principle of ecological priority and green development, strengthen efforts in ecological protection, and promote further enhancement of environmental quality. At the same time, we will actively promote eco-tourism and birdwatching activities, allowing more people to understand, pay attention to and participate in ecological protection, and to safeguard this ecological environment together,” said Ablimit Aili, member of the Party committee of Kawake Township in Moyu County, Hotan Prefecture, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region.

(The Media Convergence Center of Hotan Prefecture, Reporters: Ababaikeri and Abdmijit)