‍International Bird Day is celebrated on April 1 in spring, when migratory birds return after wintering, and nature begins to awaken and bloom.

China's protected bird species have increased nearly 50 percent compared to five years ago, with 394 species now designated as key nationally protected species, and another 1,028 categorized as species with important ecological, scientific or social value, according to the country's National Forestry and Grassland Administration.

Illustrated by Li Mingzhi