Birding in Haikou City
With a total population of 2.04 million, Haikou is the most populous city and the capital of Hainan Province, which was established in 1988. Situated on the north coast of Hainan Island, Haikou is famous in China for its excellent environment and air quality. Sitting on the northern edge of the tropical zone, Haikou has a humid subtropical climate featuring hot summers and mild winters, usually with high humidity.
The main vegetation in Haikou is typical wild shrubs and grasses commonly seen in the tropical areas in south China and mangroves along the coast in its northeastern area. The special location, good vegetation and environment make Haikou an important birding place in this province.
Some Important Birding Sites in Haikou
Dongzhai Harbour
Being the first reserve set up to protect the mangroves in China, Dongzhai Harbour is only 20 minutes driving distance from Haikou City and has entered the list of Wetlands of International Importance. The lush mangroves and abundant fish resources provide ideal habitats and sufficient food for the birds. This place has become an important wintering place for lots of migratory birds. Here you can either do birding on foot or by boat. You have good chances to see some waterbirds such as Slaty-breasted Rail, Marsh Sandpiper, Greater Sand Plover and Chinese Pond Heron, Northern Pintail, etc. Other birds like Pacific Golden Plover, Little Ringed Plover, Green-billed Malkoha, Greater Coucal, White-throated Kingfisher, Pied Kingfisher, Light-vented Bulbul, Sooty-headed Bulbul, Black-collared Starling, etc.
Haikou Evergreen Park
Covering 83 hectares, Haikou Evergreen Park has planted a large number of tropical plants and is an important birding site. While walking in the park, we have good chances to see some forest birds such as Black-naped Oriole, Red-whiskered Bulbul, Japanese White-eye, Light-vented Bulbul, etc.
Jinniuling Park
Located in the downtown of Haikou City, Jinniuling Park covers 105 hectares in size and is an important birding site. This park has very good vegetation and tree coverage. Here you have chances to see Japanese Sparrowhawk, Sooty-headed Bulbul, Light-vented Bulbul, Red-whiskered Bulbul, Greater Coucal, Blue Rock Thrush, Yellow-bellied Prinia, etc. By the side of the lake inside the park, you may find Pied Kingfisher and White-throated Kingfisher.
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