Birds forage for food at the Qiantang Greater Bay Wetland Park. [Photo/tidenews.com.cn]

As dawn broke on Sept 3, the sun rose over the Qiantang Greater Bay Wetland Park — in Hangzhou, capital of East China's Zhejiang province — to the sound of glorious birdsong, marking the start of the peak autumn migration season.

An egret elegantly flies over the reeds. [Photo/tidenews.com.cn]

Opened in 2024, the park has become a popular destination for its striking scenery that blends nature with culture. Divided into the North and South Lakes by a dike, it features bird-watching towers, pavilions and scenic platforms that irresistibly draw both visitors and photographers.

September is the crucial shift change period for migratory birds along the East Asian-Australasian Flyway.

A flock of black-winged stilts flies close to the water surface. [Photo/tidenews.com.cn]

Early arrivals of winter visitors like black-tailed godwits mix with summer residents like stilts, orioles, avocets and cuckoos preparing for their southward journey. Local species and fledglings can still be seen feeding vigorously before their departure.

Experts remind visitors to keep quiet and avoid disturbing nesting areas to give the birds a safe stopover on their long migrations.

A grey heron stares intently into the distance. [Photo/tidenews.com.cn]

A black carp fish emerges from the water to breathe. [Photo/tidenews.com.cn]

An avocet is seen by a bird enthusiast. [Photo/tidenews.com.cn]

Footprints are left by birds on the shores of the wetland. [Photo/tidenews.com.cn]