Tianchentai Tourist Resort in Wushi Town, Leizhou, Zhanjiang, Guangdong Province, is framed by sea breeze and coconut groves. Along the sandy cliffs of former shrimp ponds, burrows line the slopes, serving as nesting sites for the blue-tailed bee-eater—a nationally protected second-class wild bird and one of "China's most beautiful birds".
The small, brightly colored bird is most easily recognized by its chestnut-red throat patch. Every March, the birds migrate from Southeast Asia to breed here, drawn by abundant insects and the soft sandy cliffs ideal for nesting.
Previously used for shrimp farming, the site was first noted as a bee-eater habitat in 2013. After the ponds were abandoned, the sandy slopes gradually attracted larger colonies. It is now home to over 1,000 blue-tailed bee-eaters and more than 100 blue-throated bee-eaters, making it a rare site of cohabitation for the two species in China.
To protect the birds, local authorities have introduced a variety of measures, including installing physical barriers, carrying out regular cleanup of coastal areas, and launching public awareness campaigns, to reduce disturbance during the breeding season.
Located along the East Asian-Australasian Flyway, Zhanjiang serves as an important stopover for migratory birds. A total of 373 bird species have been recorded in the province, attracting over 100,000 birdwatchers annually and generating significant eco-tourism benefits.
Author | Huang Xinying
Photo | Nanfang Plus
