The footage of Northern Lapwings captured at Wowachi Wetland in Dunhuang Yangguan National Nature Reserve on October 8. [Photo provided to gogansu.com]

Earlier this week Tuesday, the wildlife monitoring system at Wowachi Wetland in Dunhuang Yangguan National Nature Reserve, Gansu province, captured footage of 29 Northern Lapwings. According to monitoring staff, the number of these birds observed this year has significantly increased compared to last year.

The Northern Lapwing (Vanellus vanellus), also known as the Peewit, belongs to the plover family. It is about 30 centimeters long, with a black throat and front neck. Male birds have long, forward-curving black crests that resemble "antennas," giving them high ornamental value. The species is listed as Least Concern (LC) on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species (2016 ver 3.1) and is included in China's list of protected birds.

The footage of Northern Lapwings captured at Wowachi Wetland in Dunhuang Yangguan National Nature Reserve on October 8. [Photo provided to gogansu.com]

In recent years, the Yangguan Conservation Center has employed advanced "sky-to-ground" monitoring techniques to conduct precise scientific observations of wetland wildlife habitats and biodiversity. They've established five monitoring transects and 30 sample points for migratory birds and other wildlife, achieving a comprehensive monitoring system that integrates both aerial and ground-based data.

As we're now in a crucial period for bird migration, the nature reserve is intensifying its efforts to protect these avian travelers. Regular joint patrols are being conducted to ensure the safety of migratory bird populations and their habitats. These measures aim to safeguard the birds' journey and contribute to the beautiful vision of harmony between humans and nature.