SHENZHEN is currently experiencing the peak season for migratory birds, making it an ideal time for birdwatching. However, concerns have arisen as many tourists have been observed feeding birds bread or biscuits, prompting bird lovers to raise alarms.

Despite regulations prohibiting the feeding of birds and entry into offshore reef areas at Shenzhen Bay Park, some tourists, returning from the foreshore, shared with a Dute News reporter that it is acceptable to take photos or feed birds as long as they can successfully avoid security officers and quickly climb back from the reef areas.

During a recent visit by the reporter, security officers were seen using a speaker to remind tourists not to venture into reef areas for recreational purposes. Compliance with this rule was noted where security officers were on duty, but some tourists disregarded it in the absence of security personnel.

Security officers said that they dissuaded people for their safety as reefs were rugged and tidal flats were slippery, which could lead to potential falls and injuries. “We can only try our best to dissuade, but can’t do anything about it,” an unidentified officer was quoted as telling Dute News.

The city’s planning and natural resources bureau staff provided essential etiquette for birdwatching. Firstly, people were advised to avoid wearing bright colors such as red, yellow, and orange, as these colors can alert and disturb the birds. Secondly, maintaining silence and not startling or driving away the birds was emphasized. Thirdly, keeping a safe distance from the birds, refraining from feeding or touching them, and washing hands after birdwatching were crucial, especially due to the potential transmission of avian influenza viruses by migratory birds.

Chen Peitao from the Shenzhen Academy of Environmental Sciences said that maintaining a distance of 3 to 10 meters is appropriate for birdwatching. Small birds should not be approached within less than 3 meters, while large birds should be observed from a distance of at least 10 meters.

Lastly, it was emphasized that using a camera flash directly on birds at night can impact them, and flash photography should be avoided during nighttime birdwatching.

(Wang Jingli)