A black baza flies over Baihu Mountain. [Photo/WeChat account of Optics Valley of China]

Every spring and autumn, a large number of raptors migrate through Wuhan, Central China's Hubei province, with some heading north to breed in spring and others flying south to cooler climates.

On May 5, volunteer raptor observers monitored 247 raptors flying overhead near Baihu Mountain in the East Lake High-tech Development Zone (also known as Optics Valley of China, or OVC), which is a rare occurrence.

Raptors are another term for predatory birds such as eagles, vultures, kites, hawks, and falcons. The raptor species at Baihu Mountain total 11 species, including the oriental honey buzzard and black-winged kite. Baihu Mountain is located in the central area of Wuhan New City, with the Yangtze River to the north and Yandong Lake to the south.

Wuhan has been conducting raptor monitoring for over a decade, providing valuable data to understand raptor population numbers, migration patterns, and to develop strategies for conservation purposes.

The Yangtze River is visible from Baihu Mountain. [Photo/WeChat account of Optics Valley of China]

The Optics Valley of China boasts 41 mountains and a water area of 102.3 square kilometers, which take up nearly one-fifth of the total planned area. In recent years, the ecological environment in the valley has been continuously improving, attracting wild birds and other wildlife.