Spotted ducks reappear in Sihong Wetland, with a record gathering of about 50,000

Recently, tens of thousands of spotted ducks have arrived at the Hongze Lake Wetland National Nature Reserve in Sihong, becoming the absolute stars of the winter wetland stage. The spotted duck is a national second-class protected animal. The male ducks have extremely colorful breeding plumage, with faces covered in a mottled pattern of yellow, green, black, white, and other colors, resembling the "painted face" of Peking opera, making them very striking. They like to gather in groups, and this time about 50,000 were found, a significant increase compared to previous records, with a continuing upward trend, which is rare nationwide. Visitors here can enjoy the spectacular sight of spotted ducks swimming and playing on the water surface and circling in groups in the air, experiencing the wonder and vitality of nature. Such a large-scale bird species choosing to overwinter here is closely related to the ecological restoration projects such as "fishing ban and wetland restoration" vigorously implemented by Sihong County in recent years, providing them with an ideal winter home. Recently, the Hongze Lake Wetland in Sihong was included in the national important wetland list, playing important roles in many aspects. Come to Hongze Lake Wetland to encounter these adorable "painted face spirits" and witness the natural miracles brought by ecological improvement!