Zhongxian County, Chongqing: Streams Babbling and Waterbirds Gathering

Egrets dance in graceful silhouettes; wild ducks stir the clear ripples. In recent days, waterbirds have congregated at the Xinqiao Section of the Ganjing River in Zhongxian County, Chongqing—part of the Three Gorges Reservoir area—creating a vivid tableau of harmonious coexistence between people and nature.

A flock of cormorants perch atop the trees. Photo by Zhao Jun

Some roost on branches; others skim over the water’s surface—these flocks of cormorants add boundless energy and life to the peaceful scenery. Some rest along the water’s edge; others chase and play—mudflats and wetlands become an ideal home for spot-billed ducks and mallards to live and forage. Deep in the shrubs, egrets linger at ease, thoroughly enjoying the quiet and pleasant winter days. Stately herons stand tall by the water, ready to spread their wings and take flight at the slightest rustle, tracing a graceful, lively arc across the green mountains and waters. At dusk, as the sun sets, waterbirds glide across the water, and the streams and rivers are gilded with shimmering golden light. High above, cormorants on the branches, together with the red sun, form a stunning scene reminiscent of a Chinese brush painting.

Cormorants and herons line the shoreline, awaiting opportunities to catch prey. Photo by Zhao Jun

The Xinqiao Section of the Ganjing River, a tributary of the Yangtze River, is located within the Zhongxian County town. The river’s abundant water resources and rich aquatic life, including fish and shrimp, attract wild waterbirds, such as cormorants, spot-billed ducks, mallards, egrets, and herons, to reside and breed.

The river teems with plump fish and shrimp. Photo by Zhao Jun

In recent years, Zhongxian County has strengthened the implementation of the river chief system, steadfastly advanced the 10-year fishing ban on the Yangtze River, and carried out scientific ecological protection and restoration for mountains, waters, forests, fields, lakes, and grasslands. As a result, the ecological environment of both the Yangtze’s main and tributary streams has consistently improved, with aquatic biodiversity steadily recovering. With the healthy ecological environment of the Ganjing River, more and more waterbirds have chosen to settle and breed here in recent years, and several migratory species have become resident birds.