Over 1,000 egret chicks hatch on Ningbo's bird island

A bird's-eye view of the Goushan Island, also known as Bird Island. [Photo/chinanews.com]

The peak hatching period recently began on Goushan Island Egret Breeding Base in Qiangjiao town, Ninghai county, Ningbo, with over 1,000 egret chicks having emerged from their shells, creating a vibrant natural scene on the island.

Locally known as "Bird Island", Goushan Island covers an area of about 4.5 hectares and is a crucial stopover on the East Asia-Australia migratory bird route. Every April, thousands of egrets arrive to breed and nest, making it a haven for natural bird hatching.

The breeding season for egrets on the island lasts from April to July. Wang Huabo, a volunteer, notes that during this period, egrets don their striking breeding plumage, resembling elegant wedding dresses that help attract mates and protect their chicks from the elements.

An egret feeds its baby. [Photo/chinanews.com]

"It takes about 23 to 25 days for an egg to hatch, with each nest typically producing two to four chicks. The parents take turns guarding the nest. Newly hatched chicks have a voracious appetite and remain in the nest for about a month, relying on their parents for food," said bird protection team member Zhong Wang. "The rich aquatic environment of Ninghai Bay, with its abundance of fish, shrimp, shellfish, and plankton, provides ample food resources, making it attractive to egrets."

Thanks to local conservation efforts, the number and variety of egrets on the island have been increasing annually. By the end of July, the island is expected to see an additional 3,000 egret chicks. While many will migrate in early August, some will stay and become permanent residents of the island.

Two chicks cuddle in the nest. [Photo/chinanews.com]