The vast stretch of sandbars and wetlands near Huajiang Bridge has long been a habitat for various migratory birds, attracting thousands of species of the Anatidae, Scolopacidae and Charadriidae families from September through April. The park is divided into a Core Zone, a Buffer Zone and a Sustainable Utilization Zone, according to the type of ecological resources, in an effort to preserve and protect the natural environment with the fauna/flora habitats intact. Inaccessible to the general public, the Core Zone is a major wetland restoration site largely dedicated to the restoration and maintenance of bird habitats. The educationally-functional Buffer Zone separates the Sustainable Utilization Zone and Core Zone with hedgerows or blockade ditches; it consists of freshwater ponds, tidal ponds, aquatic plants and marsh plants, each representing a distinctive eco-system. Growing among the artificially planned and cultivated park turfs are many herbaceous and woody plants that insects feed on, while the sizeable population of invertebrates on mudflats and shoals offer perfect food for Scolopacidae and Charadriidae. Primarily designed for family recreation and bird watchers, the Sustainable Utilization Zone is installed with a duck-watching trail, a bird observatory square and a family-friendly zone, where people can enjoy outdoor activities with relatively little environmental impact. To further promote ecological education, large-scale duck- and goose-watching events are hosted in the park during the migratory-bird season, with guided tours available on weekends/holidays. The Huajiang Wild Duck Nature Park, which lies beyond the embankment, and Huazhong Riverside Park, are perfect for wild bird watching; their comprehensive facilities ensure easy observation of the fascinating eco-systems.
Huajiang Wild Duck Nature Park 華江雁鴨自然公園
