Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region hosts 40% of China's bird species

The Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region now supports more than 600 bird species, about 40% of China's total, experts said Wednesday, highlighting major ecological gains in the area.

The update was shared at a Beijing event marking the 20th anniversary of the "lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets" concept, a key environmental philosophy in China.

Located along the East Asia-Australasia migratory bird flyway, the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region is a vital stopover for many species.

Xiao Nengwen, a researcher at the Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, said the region’s Taihang Mountains biodiversity area is home to 43 nationally protected wild bird species and 34 that are considered threatened.

Professor Deng Wenghong of Beijing Normal University’s School of Life Sciences noted that the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region hosts 50 of China’s 821 key migratory bird habitats.

"The increasing presence of rare species like whooper swans, common cranes, and oriental storks in areas like Hengshui Lake and Miyun Reservoir affirms the success of joint ecological efforts," Deng said.

Wednesday’s event was held at Nanyuan Forest Wetland Park, Beijing’s largest green open space. Once a busy wholesale market, the 17.5-square-kilometer park now features restored habitats.

Wild bird species in the park have risen by 44%, from 81 in 2021 to 117 at the end of 2024, according to Liu Chao, deputy director of the Fengtai District Ecological Environment Bureau.

Beijing's broader efforts include integrating green development into urban planning, with 75.6% of central urban trips now made by green commuting methods. The city has also seen nine districts earn a total of 14 national ecological civilization demonstration titles.

Beyond Beijing, Tianjin has systematically restored its river-sea confluence ecosystem, with significant recovery in wetlands like Qilihai and over 65% blue-green space coverage. Hebei has established 18 national-level demonstration zones and is actively exploring ways to turn ecological assets into economic gains.

Peng Huifang, head of the comprehensive division of the Ministry of Ecology and Environment's Department of Natural Ecosystem Protection, emphasized the deep integration of green development and modernization across the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region, which has led to continuous improvements in environmental quality.