To strengthen migratory bird rescue work, Dongsha Atoll National Park has sent conservation research personnel from its Dongsha Management Station to the Endemic Species Research Institute to receive bird rescue training.

Dongsha Atoll is located in the far north of the South China Sea, the atoll being the only land to protrude above the surface of the sea for miles around. Its favorable geographical location, rich food sources in the sea and on land, thick vegetation cover and absence of human interference and other natural conditions, have made the atoll an important stopping off point for birds on their way to breed or spend the winter in warmer climates; in the migration season a large number of birds of numerous species visit to rest and feed to charge their batteries for the rest of their long journey, creating a beautiful scene as they feed, rest or take off in large flocks. Without doubt Dongsha Atoll National Park is a vital safe haven and rest stop for birds as they migrate.

Marine National Park HQ said that since bird rescue training was given to the conservation researchers of its Dongsha Management Station, from March to the first part of April this year seven bird rescues have been carried out. The birds were in a bad state when rescued but, after being carefully looked after by management station staff, two of the birds, a White-breasted Waterhen (Amaurornis phoenicurus) and a Ruddy Turnstone (Arenaria interpres), made a full recovery and were released back into the wild.

After receiving bird rescue training and accumulating experience of bird rescue in their daily work, from now on, in addition to carrying out conservation work in the park, Dongsha Management Station staff will also carry the heavy responsibility of frontline bird rescue.

Translated by：Kevin Lax
Source：Marine National Park Headquarters