Swans Return to Songhua River in China's Heilongjiang as Spring Arrives

As temperatures rise steadily in early April, the Songhua River section in Fujin City, Jiamusi, Heilongjiang Province, has seen ice melting and water warming, attracting a large number of whooper swans migrating northward. The open water area has become a paradise for migratory birds, injecting vibrant vitality into the spring riverbanks, as reported by Xinhua News Agency.

Drone footage captured on April 5 shows dozens of whooper swans gliding gracefully on the clear water, their white feathers contrasting beautifully with the blue sky and melting ice. Some stretch their long necks to forage in the shallow water, while others fly in elegant "V" formations across the sky, creating a stunning natural scene. Local residents and birdwatchers have flocked to the riverbank to witness this annual spectacle, with many capturing the moment through cameras and smartphones.

The return of the swans is closely linked to Fujin’s improved ecological environment. Located in the hinterland of the Sanjiang Plain, Fujin is an important stopover on the East Asian-Australasian Flyway. In recent years, the local government has intensified wetland restoration and protection efforts, including  (converting farmland back to wetlands), improving water quality, and strengthening anti-poaching patrols. According to the Sanjiangpa National Nature Reserve Administration Bureau, the number of migratory birds staying in Fujin has increased significantly, with over 12 species of water birds recorded so far this spring, including rare ones like the red-crowned crane and oriental stork.

Liu Wanping, a local birdwatcher, said, "The swans’ arrival is a clear sign of ecological progress. We can see more and more rare birds here every year, which makes us proud of our hometown’s environment." The reserve has also established a smart monitoring system combining drone patrols and infrared cameras to protect migratory birds, ensuring their safe rest and foraging during the journey.

The whooper swan, a second-class protected animal in China, typically migrates from southern China to breeding grounds in Siberia every spring. The Fujin section of the Songhua River, with its abundant aquatic plants and fish, provides an ideal stopover for the swans to replenish energy. Local authorities have reminded the public to observe birds from a distance and avoid disturbing their natural habitat, promoting harmonious coexistence between humans and wildlife.

In addition to whooper swans, other migratory birds such as white-naped cranes and bean geese have also arrived in Fujin. The local forestry and grassland bureau stated that the spring bird migration in Fujin will continue until mid-May, with the number of migratory birds expected to peak in late April. Tourists are welcome to visit wetland parks and observation decks to enjoy the natural beauty, but are advised to follow protection rules and maintain silence to ensure the birds’ safety.

This year’s swan migration comes as Heilongjiang promotes ecological civilization construction and green development. The province has launched multiple initiatives to protect wetland ecosystems and biodiversity, making it a preferred destination for migratory birds. The return of the whooper swans not only enriches the region’s ecological landscape but also highlights the effectiveness of Fujin’s environmental protection efforts, reflecting the harmonious relationship between nature and human society.