A bird's-eye view of Beihu Caodang. [Photo/zjol.com.cn]

The first phase of the Beihu Caodang wetland ecological project in Hangzhou has been completed nearly six months ahead of schedule, covering an area of 705,000 square meters.

Located in the southwestern part of Pingyao town within the Yuhang district, Beihu Caodang boasts a rich history spanning over 1,000 years. It plays a crucial role as a flood detention area within the Tiaoxi Creek Basin. Renowned as a sanctuary for migratory birds, it has earned its place as one of the province's premier bird-watching destinations.

During the extensive restoration efforts, 34 new bird species were discovered inhabiting the wetland, including those classified under national first and second-level protection.

At present, the park records a total of 298 bird species, establishing itself as the wetland with the highest bird diversity in Hangzhou. What was once a degraded water area has been splendidly transformed into a thriving ecological wetland, teeming with interconnected lakes, water networks, and vibrant biodiversity.

To accommodate the growing number of bird-watching enthusiasts, various facilities have been introduced, such as dedicated bird-watching stations, enlightening bird science museums, and educational wetland protection halls.

The second phase of the project has been on the horizon.

The wetland park is home to 298 bird species. [Photo/zjol.com.cn]