Eurasian coots play in the water. [Photo/WeChat account: tongxiangfabu]

At the break of dawn, bird enthusiast and photographer Ni Rongqing eagerly awaited the return of the first migratory birds at Fenghuang Lake on Oct 22. "Morning light is the softest, and birds are more active," he noted.

Each year, as the cold air moves south, so do the migratory birds. They briefly rest in Tongxiang before continuing their journey, creating a beautiful spectacle.

Fenghuang Lake and Baidangyang are prime birdwatching spots, especially in autumn and winter. Ni arrives early every day to observe and photograph the birds, capturing their feeding, chasing, and flying behaviors. With years of experience, Ni knows their habits well. "The Eurasian coots usually arrive first and leave by April. This year, they arrived half a month earlier than last year."

Ni observed that Fenghuang Lake hosts about 20-30 bird species, including rare ones like the common merganser. By November, winter birds gather in large numbers, enlivening parks and the countryside.

The lush aquatic plants and dense trees around Fenghuang Lake attract various birds, turning it into an avian paradise. Improved environmental conditions have enhanced the area's appeal. Birds and fish indicate ecological health, and birds make Fenghuang Lake even more beautiful.