Covering an area of 326 square kilometers, the Dongtan Mudflat, on Shanghai's Chongming Island, the country's third largest island, is a natural reserve for birds.

Dongtan Mudflat is the largest wetland at the estuary of the Yangtze River and still maintains its natural condition, untouched by man.

Natural conditions have made the Dongtan Mudflat a paradise for birds. It is at the middle point of the migration route of migrant birds in the Asia-Pacific region. Moreover, mild climate in the region has enabled trees and grasses to grow luxuriantly, which in turn provides bountiful food for migrant birds.

Currently, the Dongtan Mudflat is home to a total of nearly 3 million birds of 108 species, many of which are key animals under the country's protection.

Scientists are pleased to find that due to the tidal force and the accumulation of silt brought on by the Yangtze River, the Dongtan Mudflat has expanded in the area continuously.

Correspondingly, interesting changes have taken place to the birds, animals and vegetation on the island, making the mudflat a valuable venue for biological study.

To date, China has seven natural reserves listed as the world's important wetlands, including the Zhalong reserve in Heilongjiang province and Xianghai reserve in Jilin province.

(People's Daily)