Wuzhishan Islands: A haven for terrestrial wildlife

Rare birds are spotted at Wuzhishan Islands in Dinghai district, Zhoushan. [Photo/wifizs.cn]

The Wuzhishan Islands, located in Dinghai district, Zhoushan, Zhejiang province, have been designated as a national key habitat for terrestrial wildlife by the National Forestry and Grassland Administration, as announced on Dec 20, 2023.

Comprising nine uninhabited islets, the islands boast a pristine natural environment and an abundance of fish, shrimp, shellfish, and algae, attracting tens of thousands of multiple species of waterfowl for resting, nesting, and breeding from May to October each year.

At dusk, the sky becomes a breathtaking sight, seemingly almost completely covered with birds, creating a spectacular scene known as "thousands of birds welcoming guests".

The reserve is home to approximately 20,000 waterbirds of 51 different species, including the critically endangered Chinese crested tern, a nationally protected first-class animal often referred to as a mythical bird.

Additionally, the Wuzhishan Islands provide a habitat for the globally endangered black-faced spoonbill, a nationally protected first-class animal, and the nationally protected second-class animal, the greater crested tern.