Rare Asian openbill stork spotted in Guanshanhu

Asian openbill storks are observed in Guiyang's Guanshanhu district. [Photo/Guiyang news network]

Asian openbill storks (Anastomus oscitans), a nationally protected species in China and an indicator of wetland ecosystem health, have recently been observed in Guiyang's Guanshanhu district, reflecting the area's growing biodiversity and ecological conservation achievements.

The species was spotted in the ecological conservation area of the Ecological Civilization Exhibition Hall, where they were seen foraging, resting, and moving through the wetland habitat.

Native to wetlands across Southeast Asia and parts of southern China, the species feeds mainly on mollusks, frogs, and fish. Due to its high habitat requirements, the Asian openbill stork is widely regarded as an indicator species of good wetland environmental quality and is often referred to as a "wetland elf".

In recent years, Guanshanhu has continued to advance ecological conservation and green development, strengthening its environmental protection and habitat restoration efforts. These initiatives have contributed to steady improvements in ecosystem quality and biodiversity.

To provide a more suitable habitat for local wildlife, the district has further refined its management of its ecological conservation area. Measures such as turning off lights earlier at night to reduce light pollution and optimizing visitor activity zones have helped minimize disturbances to birds, creating a quieter and safer environment for feeding, resting, and breeding.