Two Pheasant-tailed Jacanas frolic on the lake. [Photo/hangzhou.com.cn]

The Pheasant-tailed Jacana, a national second-class protected wild animal known as the "Water Phoenix", recently laid four eggs in Xixi Wetland.

This marks the first time the entire breeding process of this species has been observed and recorded in the wetland park.

Xu Gensheng, a member of the Zhejiang Bird Society, mentioned that the bird, with its long legs and distinctive golden shoulder cape, is a common sight in Xixi Wetland almost every year. However, the complete breeding process has never been recorded until now.

In early June, a pair of Jacanas was frequently seen in the Lotus Beach area. On July 2, bird watchers discovered that they had laid four eggs near the bird-watching tower. With an incubation period of about 20 days, the chicks are expected to hatch soon.

Yao Kekan, a biologist at Xixi, explained that the Jacanas are summer visitors. While they usually stay for about a week, this year, they have chosen to nest among the water lilies and gorgon plants, making the wetland their home.

As of the end of 2023, Xixi Wetland had recorded 218 bird species, including three first-class protected species, namely the Oriental Stork, White-tailed Eagle, and Baer's Pochard. In 2024, five new bird species have been recorded.

The local environmental protection bureau advises visitors to maintain a respectful distance, as the Jacanas are sensitive to environmental disturbances.

A Jacana and its four eggs. [Photo/hangzhou.com.cn]