An island in Heze, East China's Shandong province, is blessed with diversified groups of birds all year round due to its sound ecological conditions, making it a popular site for bird-watching.

The island, also known as the "Island of Birds" is in the center of Wenting Lake. Surrounded by water, it has flat terrain, a mild climate, a tranquil environment, and lush green grass, offering an ideal habitat for a dozen of wild bird varieties.

The most common species that have been found on the island are grey herons, egrets, spoonbills, and cattle egrets. Some migrant birds such as white swans, wild geese, and grey cranes also choose to spend the winter here.

Shutterbugs from all over the country are also frequent to the island. Visitors can slowly circle the island in a boat to capture as many beautiful moments of these birds as possible.

According to Duan Wenke, executive director of the China Wildlife Conservation Association, "Wild birds are well-protected here, indicating the good ecology of the central island and the local government's focus on environmental protection."

Chengwu, a county in Heze city, and also where the island is located, gave careful consideration in its planning and development to the integration of the regional culture and environmental preservation.

Heze's attempts to promote a happy coexistence of humans and nature are best exemplified by Chengwu's environmental awareness.

The county's river system covers an area of about 333.33 hectares, and it is working to connect all the rivers in the area and aesthetically harmonize the urban facilities and scenic areas of the county.

As the first city where the Yellow River, China's second-longest river, enters Shandong, Heze is rich in river and wetland resources. Over the years, Heze's ecological environment has been continuously improved. Most of rivers and parks in the city have become prime settlement areas for migratory birds.

To date, Heze city has built 14 wetland parks above the provincial level and is home to more than 200 species of birds, including 30 species of rare birds under class-one state protection.

A picturesque view of Wenting Lake in Chengwu county, Heze city, Shandong province [Photo by Zhang Pifeng/provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Grey herons are seen on the central island of Wenting Lake in Chengwu county, Heze city, Shandong province. [Photo by Wang Zebin/provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Grey herons rest on the central island of Wenting Lake. [Photo by Li Jun/provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Birds fly over Wenting Park in Chengwu county, Heze city, Shandong province. [Photo by Huo Shanhong/provided to chinadaily.com.cn]