Egret Paradise in Chengmai

Egret Paradise in Chengmai

Egret Paradise

The phenomenon of egrets roosting in large colonies can be observed in multiple areas of Chengmai County, but the most impressive gatherings in terms of both the number of birds and the longevity of their stay occur at Jialiantan and Jishiling Village.

Jialiantan is located about 500 meters behind Jialian Village in Ruixi Town, Chengmai County. It is a small hill surrounded by mountains on three sides, facing the expansive Shankouyang wetlands, which stretch all the way to the Nandu River. With its beautiful landscape, tranquil environment, and pleasant climate, this area provides an ideal habitat for various bird species. Since the 1980s, over a thousand egrets have made their home here. Over time, the population has grown through reproduction and migration, reaching as many as 30,000 by 1998. The egrets arrive at dawn and depart at dusk, creating a breathtaking spectacle with their graceful movements that resemble drifting clouds or thick fog—visible from miles away. The egret colony at Jialiantan primarily consists of little egrets, along with a mix of other species such as striated herons and grey herons, all coexisting peacefully. The surrounding hills are also home to over ten other bird species including francolins and owls, as well as wildlife such as foxes, rabbits, pangolins, turtles, and snakes. To protect this natural wonder, the Chengmai County Government designated Jialiantan as a county-level nature reserve in 1990. In 1991, the Hainan Provincial Forestry Department funded the construction of a bird-watching pavilion, and donations were also made to erect two stone monuments promoting bird conservation. Local residents have even formed voluntary bird protection teams to help safeguard the area.

A similar phenomenon once occurred in Jishiling Village, Chang’an Town. Located less than 3 kilometers from Jialiantan and also along the Jinjiang–Ruixi Highway, Jishiling hosted a large egret colony from 1958 to 1968, with numbers peaking at over 20,000 birds at times. Unlike Jialiantan, Jishiling Village is neither nestled against mountains nor beside water. The egrets primarily roosted in four large banyan trees within the village and surrounding wild bamboo groves, effectively sharing the space with villagers, livestock, and poultry. The birds lived harmoniously among humans—often playing with children and showing a particular fondness for farmers plowing fields, following them in leisurely fashion. Known as auspicious birds, the egrets were deeply respected by locals, who voluntarily protected them. During their decade-long stay, especially during the three years of famine, not a single bird was harmed for food.

Additionally, egret colonies have also been observed in Shanjingling, Shanjing Township; Xincunzai Village, Chang’an Town; Powei Village, Ruixi Town; and Chongwei Village, Yongfa Town.

Source: Party History Research Office of the CPC Hainan Provincial Committee