White cranes migrate through Zhenlai county, Jilin

An aerial view of the white cranes in Zhenlai county, Jilin province [Photo/chinadaily.com.cn]

A large number of white cranes are spotted recently in the wetlands in Zhenlai county, Baicheng city, in Northeast China's Jilin province.

White cranes are a national first-class protected wild species and often inhabit open plains, wetlands, grasslands and large lakes, usually feeding on the roots and stems of submerged plants.

Statistics show that the number of white cranes in the world is less than 4,000, while Zhenlai county played host to around 2,600 recently.

The county, hailed as the "hometown of white cranes in China", is an important place for migrant birds. White cranes stop over there every spring and autumn, for around four months.

To ensure their safety and provide a better environment for them, the county has introduced a series of measures, including establishing eight patrol teams to control and monitor visitors, prohibiting fishing, and calling upon locals to protect the wetlands and its rare birds.

The county also set up a volunteer group consisting more than 40 people, to assist the government's work.

Grey cranes, whooper swans and wild geese also seen taking a rest at the wetlands in Zhenlai county.