The Hongze Lake Wetland National Nature Reserve in Sihong County, Jiangsu Province has welcomed the first batch of migratory birds this year, including more than 20,000 Baikal teals (Sibirionetta formosa). 

The population of squawk ducks wintering in the reserve has exceeded 20,000 for six consecutive years, setting a national record for the largest recorded population of this species in China. The male is recognizable by its striking facial markings, reminiscent of masks used in Peking Opera.  

As a crucial stop on the East Asian-Australasian Flyway (EAAF), the reserve has intensified measures such as wetland restoration, fishery reduction, daily patrolling, and public education in recent years, creating an excellent habitat for dabbling ducks and other migratory birds. Other wintering birds in the reserve include the gadwall, Chinese spot-billed duck, and tufted duck. 

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