Longbao Beach Nature Reserve: The Hometown of Black-necked Cranes on the Plateau

The Wetland Gem of Yushu

Nestled within the rugged folds of the mountains in Yushu Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Qinghai Province, lies a serene and vital ecological sanctuary: the Longbao Beach Nature Reserve (Longbaotan). Situated at an impressive altitude of over 4,000 meters, this reserve is a long, narrow valley stretching approximately 10 kilometers in length and 3 kilometers in width. It is characterized by a landscape of high-altitude meadow marshlands, scattered with lake remnants and gravel, flanked by parallel towering peaks. Despite the harsh climate—where rain often turns to snow even in May and June, and sudden hailstorms can sweep through under a clear sky—this unique geographical environment creates a paradise for rare plateau wildlife.

Hometown of the Black-necked Crane

Longbao Beach is renowned globally among ornithologists and nature lovers as the "Hometown of Black-necked Cranes". It serves as a crucial breeding ground for this rare bird species, which is the only crane in the world that lives and breeds exclusively on the high-altitude plateau. The reserve attracts international bird experts and scientific researchers who come to study these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. The sight of black-necked cranes dancing and foraging against the backdrop of snow-capped mountains and marshy wetlands offers a scene of profound natural beauty and ecological significance.

A Haven for Plateau Biodiversity

Beyond the iconic black-necked cranes, Longbao Beach is a thriving hub of biodiversity. The wetland ecosystem supports more than ten species of rare birds, including bar-headed geese, brown-headed gulls, terns, ruddy shelducks, common mergansers, and snowcocks. It is also home to various rare highland beasts and valuable medicinal herbs, making it a comprehensive treasury of Qinghai-Tibet Plateau wildlife. The reserve represents a delicate yet resilient web of life, thriving in one of the world's most challenging environments, offering visitors a glimpse into the raw power and beauty of high-altitude nature.