A two-day bird-watching competition, one of the primary activities in the second bird-watching event of the Yellow River Delta – which was held in Dongying city, in East China's Shandong province – recently wrapped up in triumph.

The organizers said that this year's contest reached new heights, featuring 32 competing teams and 15 observer teams.

A total of 171 bird species were recorded, including 11 national first-class protected species such as the baer's pochard, relict gull and dalmatian pelican.

Also recorded were 33 national second-class protected species, among them the long-eared owl, falcated duck and lesser white-fronted goose.

Various awards highlighted some unique achievements. The Excellence Award went to the team that recorded the most species, totaling 118. The Supreme Award recognized the sighting of the globally vulnerable red-breasted goose, a new record for the reserve.

The Contribution Award was given to the team that recorded a unique species not seen by other teams.

The event highlighted the dynamic natural beauty and ecological diversity of the Yellow River Delta, underscoring the region's environmental significance.

Flocks of migratory birds arrive at the Yellow River Delta in Dongying for winter. [Photo/WeChat account: hhkbhq]

Members of a bird-watching team closely observe their subjects with telescopes. [Photo/WeChat account: hhkbhq]