Birdwatching enthusiasts work with local authorities in Qinhuangdao

In early May, as thousands of birds gradually left the city's Beidaihe tidal wetland for their breeding grounds, a nearby 40,000-square-meter area served as a soft-release zone for rehabilitated birds.

Around 32 recovering birds — including national first-class protected species such as the black stork and golden eagle — were reintroduced to the wild there.

"This buffer zone gives them time to regain strength before they fly off on their own," Li Jun, vice-president of the birdwatching association, said.