Ever wonder where our feathered friends take a break during their epic journeys? 🐦✨ At the northern tip of the Yellow Sea Ecoregion lies the Yalu River Estuary in Dandong, Liaoning Province—a must-visit hotspot for migratory birds cruising along the East Asian-Australasian Flyway! 🌏
From March to May every year, hundreds of thousands of shorebirds wing their way from Australia, New Zealand, and Southeast Asia, heading north to breed in the Russian Far East and Alaska. 🗺️ The Yalu River Estuary Wetland isn't just a pitstop; it's their ultimate refueling station before the final leg of their journey. Talk about a VIP lounge! 🛫💨
Recent bird counts have spotted 324 species fluttering around this sanctuary—that's like the Avengers assembling but with birds! 🦸♂️🦸♀️ This includes 148 waterbirds and 176 forest birds. But here's the kicker: 26 of these species are threatened with extinction (according to the IUCN Red List), and 32 are listed in the CITES Appendices. 🎓 Protecting this area isn't just about birds; it's about preserving biodiversity for our planet's future.
On July 26, the Yalu River Estuary became part of the \"Migratory Bird Sanctuaries along the Coast of Yellow Sea-Bohai Gulf of China (Phase II)\" that's included in UNESCO's World Heritage List. 🌟 Phase I got the nod back in 2019, and now the legacy continues! This recognition isn't just a title; it's a call to action for conservation enthusiasts worldwide. 🌳🌍
So next time you're in Asia, why not swing by this natural wonder? Whether you're a bird nerd 🐤🤓 or just love breathtaking landscapes, the Yalu River Estuary is a bucket-list-worthy destination! ✈️📸
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
