A Red-throated Pipit observed in Baiyangdian. (Photo by Li Senhao/Great Wall New Media)

The Natural Resources Bureau of Anxin County and the Forestry Comprehensive Service Center of Xiong County in Xiong'an New Area recently announced the discovery of seven new bird species, bringing the total count of wild bird species in Baiyangdian to 286.

Recently, bird monitoring staff, ornithological research teams, volunteers, and media reporters in Xiong'an New Area observed new wild bird species in Baiyangdian. These species include the Red-throated Pipit, Passer Cinnamomeus, Black-throated Thrush, Two-barred Warbler, Phylloscopus schwarzi, Accipiter soloensis, and Plegadis falcinellus, which had not previously been recorded in the area.

With the assistance of bird experts, it was confirmed that the Plegadis falcinellus is a national first-class protected animal, while the Accipiter soloensis is classified as a national second-class protected animal. The Red-throated Pipit, Passer Cinnamomeus, Black-throated Thrush, Two-barred Warbler, and Phylloscopus schwarzi are categorized as terrestrial wild animals of important ecological, scientific, and social value.

The total count of wild bird species in Baiyangdian has now reached 286, an increase of 80 species since the establishment of Xiong'an New Area. This includes 13 species of national first-class protected birds, 51 species of national second-class protected birds, and 222 species of birds classified as terrestrial wild animals of important ecological, scientific, and social value, among others.

Baiyangdian, known as the "Pearl of North China", is the largest freshwater lake in North China. The water quality of Baiyangdian has maintained Class III status for three consecutive years, with water levels remaining at around 7 meters. According to the Hebei Provincial Forestry and Grassland Bureau, nine bird habitats have been designated in Baiyangdian, and two bird islands are under construction.

Editor: Song Lifang, Mi Wenting (Intern)