Relict Gulls frolicking in Nanhu Taolai River Park, Jiayuguan city, Gansu province [Photo/gansudaily.com.cn]

In the early spring, Relict Gulls have been frequently spotted at the Nanhu Taolai River Park in Jiayuguan city of Gansu province. They are seen as being playful in the water in search of food or gracefully dancing in the air, painting a vivid picture of harmony between humans and nature.

The Relict Gull is a highly endangered migratory bird and is classified as a national first-class protected species. Jiayuguan city is one of the main routes for migratory birds and serves as a convergence point for multiple migratory pathways. Every year, approximately 200 species and millions of migratory birds pass through this area, either stopping briefly to rest before continuing their migration or nesting and breeding for several months.

As the population and number of migratory birds passing through Jiayuguan city have been increasing year by year, the task of wildlife protection is both significant and challenging. In response, Jiayuguan city has issued a "Migratory Bird Protection Initiative," advocating for the locals to embrace biodiversity, and to respect and protect nature.

Additionally, the Jiayuguan city Ecological Environment Volunteer Service Team organizes volunteers to conduct biodiversity protection publicity activities, distributing brochures and explaining relevant information to residents who come to watch and protect the birds.

In recent years, Jiayuguan city has adhered to a people-oriented approach, focusing on water conservation, greening, and cultural development, intensifying efforts to beautify and green the city. It has successively won more than 20 honors, including "National Civilized City," "National Garden City," "Top Ten Leisure and Livable Ecological Cities in China," "International Tourism City," "China's Outstanding Tourism City," and "National Environmental Protection Model City."  It has earned the reputation of "a pearl amidst lakes and mountains, a jewel on the Gobi Desert."