The Huangshui river estuary wetland nature reserve in Longkou, a county-level city in Yantai, East China's Shandong province, has become a paradise for migrant birds thanks to the local government's efforts to strengthen ecological protection and restoration, according to a local news report.

The Huangshui River Estuary Wetland Nature Reserve in Longkou Binhai Tourist Resort welcomed a group of distinguished guests - oriental white storks. Sometimes they soar in the air, sometimes they dance on the water, and sometimes they stroll across the wetlands searching for food. Their red legs are slim and slender, and their distinctive black and white wings attract a lot of shutterbugs to the area to capture their beauty.

"They came to the reserve in early May, and have stayed here for more than a month. They can be seen hovering over the water and foraging, which is a delight for photographers," according to Zhang Cunyou, Party chief of Huangheying village.

Zhang further explained that the atmosphere of the nature reserve has improved and become more attractive over time, luring numerous unique birds to live and reproduce there. More and more bird species, including red-crowned cranes, egrets, spoonbill herons, and long-legged sandpipers, have been captured on camera over the past two years.

Longkou has placed a high priority on ecological preservation and environmental protection in recent years, which has produced positive outcomes. Numerous birds have come to live and reproduce here because of the area's abundant natural resources and robust ecology, creating a picture scroll of ecological harmony, reciprocal benefits, and symbiosis.

Oriental white storks arrive at the Huangshui River Estuary Wetland Nature Reserve in Longkou Binhai Tourist Resort, Yantai, East China's Shandong province. [Photo/Yantai Daily]