(CFP Photo)
Jiangsu Province boasts 14 locations on China’s first list of key terrestrial wild animal habitats, released by the National Forestry and Grassland Administration on December 20. The list of 789 habitats covers areas that are home to 82.36% of the country's critically protected terrestrial species.
Dafeng Milu National Nature Reserve
This reserve hosts the most population of wild milu (Pere David's deer), and possesses the most extensive gene pool of this species endemic to China. It has witnessed the milu population from 39 in 1986 to 3,223, boasting the highest annual growth rate worldwide.
Qinhu National Wetland Park
As China’s second national wetland park, Qinhu in Taizhou City is a biodiversity hotspot with 251 plant species and 392 animal species thanks to its diverse landscapes, including reed swamps, ponds and fields.
Laoshan National Forrest Park in Nanjing
The latest survey identified 2,081 species (excluding aquatic organisms) in Laoshan, which has a mild climate and a forest coverage of 79.4%. Noted for the Chinese luehdorfia butterfly, the park opened a dedicated nature museum in April 2016, the first in China for this endemic species.
Yancheng coastal wetlands
With 769,600 hectares of wetlands, Yancheng is a vital sanctuary for migratory birds. The wetland types are among the most comprehensive along the eastern coast of China.
Hongze Lake wetlands in Sihong County
For every winter season, this site becomes a heaven for over 500,000 waterfowls, including 12 IUCN Red List threatened species, with six classified as endangered.
Tongli wetlands in Wujiang District of Suzhou City
Combining wetlands and forest habitat, Tongli wetlands Park boasts 228 bird species, the richest avian diversity in Suzhou City.
Xiaoyangkou coastal wetlands in Rudong County
Xiaoyangkou area has recorded more than 450,000 waterbirds across more than 300 species, including those critically endangered worldwide and under first-class protection in China. It has also become a magnet for domestic and international bird-watchers.
Shijiu Lake wetlands in Lishui District of Nanjing City
An iconic destination in the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River, Shijiu Lake Wetlands Park provides a vital habitat for fish and birds.
Haizhou Bay coastal wetlands in Ganyu District of Lianyungang City
As an essential habitat and stopover for migratory birds, it supports over 600 kinds of aquatic and terrestrial species.
Linhong estuary wetlands in Lianyungang City
These well-preserved wetlands play a crucial role in flood prevention, climate regulation, and biodiversity protection, forming part of Lianyungang’s diverse ecosystems alongside Yuntai Mountain and Haizhou Bay.
Yangtze River estuary wetlands in Qidong County, Nantong City
This reserve is a landmark in China’s wetland research. It is of great significance in wildlife protection and sustainable use of the Yangtze River's aquatic resources.
Lixiahe marsh wetlands in Xinghua
The national wetland park becomes an attraction for migratory birds in winter, offering ample food sources with its mudflats and shallow waters.
Baima Lake wetlands in Huai’an City
Baima is one of the top ten lakes in Jiangsu and China’s 15 key protected lakes nationally recognized for its ecological health. It harbors 210 bird species, including four under first-class national protection. Notably, the endangered Oriental White Stork was spotted here two years ago.
Liya Mountain wetlands in Haimen District of Nantong City
Home to Jiangsu’s first national-level special marine protection area, the site holds significant scientific value and tourism potential.
