In winter, the crabapple orchards lining the roads of Shangjiuhu Village in Quanzijie Town, Jimsar County, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, are laden with red fruit, their subtle scent lingering in the air. These orchards have become a natural "feeding stop" for wild birds. On January 7, 2026, local photographers captured a precious sight here: Bohemian waxwings, a species under second-class national protection, took the lead alongside birds like fieldfares, gathering among the trees to peck at crabapples in a lively and dynamic scene.

Photo shows bohemian waxwings on branches. Bohemian waxwing, also called the "Twelve Yellows," measures about 20 centimeters in length. It has a fluffy crest, twelve tail feathers with yellow tips, white streaks across its wings, and red wax-like spots, giving it a distinctive and striking appearance. (Photo by Ren Dongsheng)

The branches are heavily adorned with bright red crabapples, forming a "winter feast" that draws in birds. Among them, bohemian waxwing stands out. This winter visitor, known as the "Twelve Yellows," is around 20 centimeters long and features a fluffy crest, twelve yellow-tipped tail feathers, white wing stripes, and red wax-like spots, making it both eye-catching and easy to identify. Flocking to the branches, they delicately peck at the fruit while occasionally calling to one another with clear, crisp notes, showcasing their agile and charming behavior. Asspecies under second-class national protection, bohemian waxwing is only found in China during winter. Its presence in Quanzijie Town highlights the area's appeal as a winter habitat for migratory birds.

Photo shows a bohemian waxwing pecks at crabapples. (Photo by Ren Dongsheng)

Fieldfares can also be spotted in the woods. Measuring about 28 centimeters in length, these birds have gray-brown upper bodies, yellowish-white underparts dotted densely with black circular spots, and pale yellowish-white markings around their eyes. In China, they are found only in limited areas such as Xinjiang, making them rare "special visitors." Some perch leisurely on branches to feed on fruit, while others hop on the ground to forage. Their occasional loud, whistling calls bring unique energy to the orchard.

Photo shows bohemian waxwings feed among crabapple trees. (Photo by Ren Dongsheng)

In recent years, Quanzijie Town in Jimsar County has steadily carried out ecological initiatives like landscape forest development and wild vegetation conservation. By preserving plants that bear fruit in winter and minimizing human interference, the area has become a safe and suitable habitat where birds can rest and feed. The gathering of species such as bohemian waxwings and fieldfares in the crabapple orchards vividly reflects the ongoing improvement of the local ecosystem. It also adds a beautiful dimension to the winter countryside, a place where humans and nature coexist in perfect harmony.

(The Media Convergence Center of Jimsar County, Reporters: Wei Ping and Ren Dongsheng)