As the deep autumn tightens its grip on the north, Shenzhen in the south remains warm and balmy, welcoming its long-awaited old friends – the black-faced spoonbills. These "long-legged, big-beaked" creatures have travelled thousands of kilometres to spend the winter in this warm wetland, adding a touch of lively vitality to Shenzhen Bay.
Early in the morning, as the sunlight dances on the shimmering water surface, the black-faced spoonbills have already lined up on the shallow beaches, embarking on their daily food search. With their distinctive spoon-shaped bills, they gently glide over the water, skillfully capturing small fish and shrimp, busy and content. Sometimes, they dip their heads to forage, and sometimes, they spread their wings in graceful dances, creating a lively scene.
Staff at Shenzhen Bay Park explained that the number of black-faced spoonbills this year is higher than last year, indicating that they have clearly fallen in love with the environment here. The abundant food and tranquil habitat in the wetland provide ideal wintering conditions for these rare birds.
Author | Alice
Photo | Nanfang Daily
Editor | Nina, James
