As spring returns, it's time for the migratory birds to fly north. Some birds stop and rest in Beijing where the greenery is flourishing, while others continue to spread their wings and fly further. Bird migration is one of the most spectacular natural events in the world. They fly in flocks for thousands, and even tens of thousands, of kilometers, leaving behind precious "bird-watching maps" captured by humans.

Beijing Yeyahu (Wild Duck Lake) National Wetland Park

At the foot of the Badaling Great Wall lies a famous wetland in Beijing, the Yeyahu (Wild Duck Lake) Wetland, which was formed due to the construction of the Guanting Reservoir, the first reservoir built after the founding of the People's Republic of China. Backed by Haituo Mountain and nestled beside Guishui River, far from the hustle and bustle of the city, it is an ideal habitat for birds. After more than 60 years of protection and expansion, Wild Duck Lake has become a national wetland park. Every year, hundreds of migratory birds pass through here, and over 100 species of wild birds make this wetland their permanent home to breed and grow. It can be said that Wild Duck Lake Wetland is the best place for bird watching in Beijing.

Address: Guanting Reservoir, at the foot of the Badaling Great Wall

China National Botanical Garden

In addition to a variety of flowers, the China National Botanical Garden in spring is also a paradise for birds. Willow warblers sing on the willow trees, and blackbirds’s sound is a bit annoying. There are two popular bird watching routes in the garden. The east route starts from the southeast gate of the botanical garden and goes north along the east wall of the garden. This route is closer to the western hills, has fewer tourists, and less human interference, making it a habitat for more shallow mountain birds and raptors. The west route is the main tourist route of the Botanical Garden with many visitors, better greenery management, and diverse ecological environments due to water distribution. The two routes converge at the Yingtaogou.

Address: Xiangshan South Road, Haidian District, Beijing

Translator: ZHAO Huinan

Reviewer: TANG Yingqi