Three Oriental white storks, a first-class protected species in China known for their high sensitivity to habitat and water quality, have been spotted feeding on crabs in a pond in Xinghua, Jiangsu province, indicating the favorable ecological condition of the local environment.
Hairy crabs produced in Xinghua. [Photo/WeChat account: xinghuafabu]
In Xinghua, located in the Lixiahe plain, water bodies cover one quarter of its total area. The city also features a Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System, the Duotian Agrosystem.
The favorable water quality supports the farming of hairy crabs, freshwater prawns, crayfish, and freshwater fish, as well as the cultivation of aquatic plants such as lotus seed pods and water caltrops.
The city also boasts several scenic spots, including the Lizhong Water Forest, the Wanmu Hetang Scenic Area, and the Xuma wetland covering 10.68 square kilometers.
Wujindang Wetland Park will also host a beer and crayfish carnival in late July, offering a night food market, live performances, and leisure activities, along with locally farmed crayfish and craft beers.