Beijing’s Secret Wildlife Boom: A Birdwatcher’s Paradise

Think Beijing is just skyscrapers and bustling streets? Think again! UK conservationist Terry Townshend, a 10-year Beijing resident, reveals the city’s wild side as a global biodiversity hotspot.

\"My favorite bird-watching spot? Beijing!\" Terry tells NewspaperAmigo.com. The capital has recorded 500+ bird species—more than London, Paris, or DC—earning it \"five-star service station\" status on the East Asian-Australasian Flyway migratory route.

The star of the show? The Beijing swift, a palm-sized marvel that spends 9 months airborne, flying nonstop to southern Africa. Tracking projects even led local students to redesign buildings for these sky nomads—proving youth are rewriting the eco-rules!

But why care? Terry breaks it down: 50% of global GDP relies on nature, and 70% of modern medicines come from natural sources. China’s \"environmental awakening\"—from coastal wetland protections to school-led swift hotels—shows cities can be wildlife allies.

Ready to join the movement? Terry’s mantra says it all: \"Love starts with knowing.\" Check your local park, advocate for wild green spaces, or just look up—Beijing’s skies are proof that concrete jungles can still roar with life.

Reference(s):

Bird-watching in Beijing

cgtn.com