Qingdao Zhanqiao Pier: A winter dance with seagulls

At the Zhanqiao Pier, an iconic scenic area in Qingdao, Shandong, hundreds of seagulls are gracefully dancing in the air, getting close to visitors, and all creating a beautiful picture of harmony.

These seagulls coming from Siberia, add a unique scenic touch to Qingdao's winter once again. As temperatures continue to drop, more seagulls will arrive in Qingdao, sharing the warmth and joy of the winter season with tourists.

Zhanqiao Pier, as one of the gathering places for seagulls, welcomes a large number of seagulls from distant Siberia every winter. This location provides them with a suitable climate, abundant food, and a friendly human environment, making it a favored wintering spot every year. The seagulls have become familiar friends for Qingdao residents and visitors alike.

In the winter of 1994, Qingdao became the first in the country to launch a campaign to protect seagulls, which received support from citizens and tourists. Thanks to this campaign, the number of seagulls wintering in Qingdao has grown from the initial 2,000 to over 100,000 today, with the species expanding to more than 20 varieties.

Seagulls from Siberia arrive at the Zhanqiao Pier, Qingdao, and share the joy of the winter season with tourists. [Photo/Guanhai News]