Feathered Figures Deep in the Forests
Fanjingshan is located in Tongren, Guizhou, and is the main peak of the Wuling Mountains, with a maximum elevation of 2572 m. It preserves a well-conserved primeval forest ecosystem at the same latitude worldwide, with high forest coverage and a clear vertical vegetation spectrum—from evergreen broad-leaved forest at the foot of the mountain to deciduous broad-leaved forest higher up. The rich layering of trees, together with numerous mountain streams, provides suitable habitat for many bird species.
According to scientific survey data, bird species here are diverse. Lady Amherst's pheasant, Temminck's tragopan, golden pheasant, and red-billed blue magpie are among those occasionally seen in the forests. Since ancient times, Fanjingshan has had the saying of "rare birds," listed among its ten wonders, which shows how present birds are in this mountain area. Walking between open trails and forest edges, paying attention to movements among branches and shrubs, often brings unexpected surprises.
When to Come Birdwatching
Fanjingshan belongs to the East Asian monsoon climate zone. Temperatures decrease as the terrain rises, the air is humid, and there is much cloud and mist among the mountains. Bird conditions have different characteristics in each season, so before setting out you can choose according to your own schedule:
- Spring: Migratory birds return north, and songs are frequent in the forests, making it a good season for birdwatching.
- Summer: The forests are lush and resident birds are active, most easily encountered in the early morning and at dusk; the mountains are cool in summer, also suitable for birdwatching while escaping the heat.
- Autumn and Winter: Some migratory birds stop over or spend the winter; on clear days visibility is good and observation is easy.
In any season, early morning and dusk are the best times for bird activity. At these times the light is soft and birds are frequently active, suitable for walking lightly and slowly and waiting quietly.
Where to Look and How to Watch
Birdwatching does not require going deep into unopened areas. Walking slowly along open trails, forest edges, and stream banks is enough; forest birds in the mountains and water birds by the streams each find their own pleasure. When observing, use binoculars, keep quiet, do not chase, do not feed, and do not play bird calls to attract them. When photographing, keep your distance, avoid using flash, and above all do not disturb birds for the sake of a shot.
- Wear plain-colored clothing to reduce visual disturbance to birds.
- Walk lightly and slowly, keep quiet; patience is often more important than distance covered.
- Do not chase or use strong lighting; keep observation at a safe distance.
- Please do not feed wild animals; together we protect their home.
Beyond Birdwatching, Protect This Mountain Well
Fanjingshan is one of the regions with the richest biodiversity at the same latitude worldwide, known as a "gene bank of biological resources." In 2018 it was inscribed on the World Natural Heritage List, and it is also the only habitat of the Guizhou golden monkey. Every plant and tree, every stone and stream in the mountains is hard-won; every small action during birdwatching affects the tranquility of the birds.
When visiting, please walk along open trails, do not trample vegetation, and do not enter unopened areas; do not pick flowers or branches, do not dig up plants, and do not disturb or feed wild animals; take your garbage down the mountain with you or put it into sorting facilities, do not discard or bury it on site; do not bring fire sources into the forest, and safeguard forest fire safety. Not disturbing, not capturing, and not destroying nests and habitats are the basic rules of birdwatching. Keep the beauty in your eyes and lens, and leave the tranquility to the feathers and songs among the forests.