The Longyou County People's Court, in collaboration with Longyou's forestry and water resources bureau, has issued Quzhou's first judicial protection order for wild birds.

The announcement was made during an activity celebrating the 45th Zhejiang "Bird-Loving Week", held at the Longyouhu area in Longyou county, Quzhou, a premier bird-watching site in Zhejiang province.

Located on the north shore of the Qujiang River, Longyouhu serves as a crucial stopover for migratory birds in eastern Asia and a vital breeding ground for summer migratory species.

To date, over 130 bird species have been identified in the area, including more than 30 nationally protected species. It is a key habitat for rare birds such as the Chinese merganser, often dubbed the "giant panda of birds".

A view of the ecological beauty of the Longyouhu area in Longyou county. [Photo/Tide News]

The newly issued protection order is based on relevant laws and regulations, outlining five categories of prohibited activities. It comprehensively bans actions that harm wild birds and their habitats, establishing a governance model that emphasizes risk prevention, immediate intervention, and accountability for damages.

In addition to prohibiting hunting, harming, or killing wild birds, and the illegal trade of nationally protected species, the order explicitly bans the use of drones to disturb or harm birds.

At the event, a "Bird Guardians" appointment ceremony was held. Fang Liuping, a local resident known for his commitment to bird observation and protection, was named Longyou's first "Bird Guardian".