Five Dalmatian pelicans, a first-class nationally protected species, were recently spotted in the Yellow River wetland of Ningxia Hui autonomous region. This sighting comes nearly three years after the species was first photographed in the area in 2019.

Known for their imposing size, adult Dalmatian pelicans can reach up to 1.8 meters in length, boast a wingspan exceeding 3 meters, and weigh up to 15 kilograms. The species breeds from April to June, nesting in trees and laying clutches of 3-4 eggs.

The Dalmatian pelican was classified as "near threatened" on the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List of Threatened Species in 2017.

In 2021, China elevated its protection status to the highest level and intensified conservation measures, which have begun yielding results since 2022.

Ningxia has prioritized ecological restoration and sustainable development along the Yellow River basin, enhancing protections for its wetlands and mud flats. These areas now serve as critical refueling stops and habitats for migratory birds.

Video by Yue Changhong/For chinadaily.com.cn