Zhalong Nature Reserve

Background

Zhalong Nature Reserve lies southeast of Qiqihar, Heilongjiang Province, on the lower reaches of the Wuyur River. Covering about 2,100 square kilometres, it is a mosaic of reed marshes, streams and shallow lakes. The reserve was established in 1979 and in 1992 was listed under the Ramsar Convention as a Wetland of International Importance. It lies on a migratory flyway running from the Arctic past the Gobi region to Southeast Asia, and from April to October migrating birds stop over and breed here; storks, swans, herons, grebes and others all make their home in the reserve. A flock of red-crowned cranes is kept within the reserve for conservation.

Local customs

• Watch the red-crowned cranes being released to fly at the crane-viewing area
• tour the reed wetlands by boat or electric cart
• birds are most active at dawn and dusk, the best times for birdwatching.

Travel tips

• The reserve is about 26 km from central Qiqihar. Summer brings many mosquitoes, so bring repellent
• crane release times change with the seasons, so check the on-site notices. June to September is the best time for crane-watching, April to May and September to October are the migration periods, and in winter the snow-covered reed fields have a charm of their own.
• You can take a bus bound for Zhalong from near Qiqihar railway station, a ride of about 40 minutes, or take a taxi, subject to local arrangements.