Migratory birds pictured in Shahu scenic area in NW China

An aerial drone photo taken on April 18, 2026 shows nests of herons at the Shahu scenic area in Pingluo County of Shizuishan City in northwest China's Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region. From March to October each year, the Shahu scenic area serves as an important breeding habitat for migratory birds, featuring vast expanses of water, abundant plankton, fish and shrimp, and a variety of ecosystems.

In recent years, the area has continuously advanced the systematic governance of mountains, rivers, forests, farmlands, lakes, grasslands and deserts, restored lakes previously used for aquaculture, converted farmlands back into wetlands, and improved both water quality and the overall ecological environment. The number of birds species in the area has grown from 178 in 2011 to 216. (Xinhua/Wang Peng)