Pheasant-Tailed Jacanas Establish New Habitat in Lotus Pond Ecosystem
Pheasant-tailed jacanas, dubbed "fairies of the ripples," enchant visitors at Xianghu Wetland Park's lotus pond in Nanchang.
The recent appearance of pheasant-tailed jacanas at the lotus pond in Xianghu Wetland Park, Nanchang, has sparked considerable excitement among local wildlife enthusiasts and conservationists. Revered as “fairies of the ripples” for their striking plumage and graceful movement across floating leaves, these birds are a rare sight in many parts of China. Their presence is widely regarded as an indicator of a healthy wetland ecosystem, emphasizing the ongoing success of environmental protection measures in the region.
Classified as a species under second-class national protection in China, the pheasant-tailed jacana faces threats such as habitat loss and water pollution in other parts of its range. The fact that they have chosen the lotus-rich waters of Xianghu for breeding and nurturing their young is seen as a sign of both abundant food supply and suitable nesting sites. Local officials and ecologists have credited recent restoration projects—including water quality management, planting of native vegetation, and strict wildlife monitoring—for creating the conditions required to support sensitive species like the jacana.
Visitors to Xianghu Wetland Park have been delighted by sightings of the jacanas, identifiable by their long toes and ornate tail feathers, gliding elegantly across the sea of lotus leaves. Their unique ability to walk atop floating vegetation without sinking—thanks to their elongated toes—has fascinated birdwatchers and photographers alike. According to park staff, the jacanas’ return to the area is a milestone in local biodiversity restoration efforts.
Xianghu Wetland Park has gained increasing recognition as a sanctuary for migratory and resident waterbirds throughout the year. The successful arrival and breeding of protected species such as the pheasant-tailed jacana underscore the importance of continued investment in wetland conservation. Moving forward, park authorities plan to work closely with researchers to monitor the birds’ population dynamics and ensure the wetland remains a welcoming habitat for jacanas and other wildlife.
