Dongguan in south China's Guangdong Province has recorded 363 wild bird species as of the end of 2025, spanning 20 orders and 71 families. Among these, 10 are National First-Class and 57 are National Second-Class Protected Wild Animals. This figure marks a sharp increase from the 65 species documented in 2008, highlighting steady improvements in the city's ecological environment.
Brown-breasted Flycatcher (Cyornis brunneatus) – Recorded on May 10, 2025, by Zhong Pei
Pine Bunting (Emberiza leucocephalos) – Recorded on October 26, 2025, by Zhang Ciqiang
Greater Short-toed Lark (Calandrella dukhunensis) – Recorded on December 5, 2025, by Li Ruihong
In 2025 alone, nine new bird species were identified, including protected species such as the Brown-breasted Flycatcher and the Black-necked Grebe. Many of these sightings occurred after October during the autumn migration season, with areas such as Xiegang Town emerging as key observation sites, partly supported by bird-watching activities organized for students.
The rebound in bird populations reflects ongoing ecological restoration efforts. Dongguan has built 24 wetland parks and 21 forest parks and developed more than 2,600 kilometers of greenways. Restored habitats—including the mangroves in Shatian Town and the rehabilitated canal in Houjie Town—have become important refuges and, in some cases, permanent habitats for migratory birds.
Over the past 17 years, Dongguan's transition from an industrial hub to a haven for birds signals a broader shift toward ecological balance. The growing diversity of birdlife underscores both environmental recovery and the city's ongoing commitment to conservation.
Author | He Fengyu
Photo | Nanfang Plus
Editor | Liu Lingzhi, James Campion, Shen He
