On June 10, 2025, Zhang Xinming, a wildlife photographer from Tuoli County, spotted and photographed a white-headed duck, the real-life inspiration for "Donald Duck," in Yumin County's Kulusitai Wetland. The duck moved gracefully across the water like a playful nature spirit, its striking white crown standing out against its brown plumage. With each powerful stroke of its short webbed feet, it glided effortlessly, leaving gentle ripples in its wake. Every movement radiated calm and freedom, creating a scene full of vitality.

The white-headed duck belongs to the Anatidae family. It is classified as Endangered (EN) on the IUCN Red List, and is a first-class protected animal in China. Its range in the country includes Tianjin, Shaanxi, central Inner Mongolia, northern Xinjiang, Sichuan, and Hubei. As a globally threatened species, their habitats are not just a measure of ecological balance but also a valuable natural treasure.

Male white-headed ducks are mostly white-headed with a small black patch on the crown. During breeding season, their bills turn a vivid blue, enhancing their distinctive appearance. This striking feature famously inspired the creation of Disney's "Donald Duck."

(The Media Convergence Center of Toli County, Correspondent: Zhang Xinming)