From the vibrant banyan groves of Mangba Village in Yunnan to the wetlands of Henan, birdwatching is becoming the new passion project for seniors on the Chinese mainland. Drawn by colorful parrots and rare species, older shutterbugs are turning these spots into thriving eco-tourism hubs.
In Mangba Village, centuries-old banyan trees host flocks of parrots whose bright plumage has become a magnet for photography-loving seniors. Local families have risen to the occasion, offering tailor-made lodging, home-cooked meals and shuttle services to help visitors chase the perfect shot.
Further east, Lanshan County in Hunan has upgraded its services along a major migration corridor. Here, seniors enjoy guided tours with on-site medical staff, first-aid equipment and complimentary health checks, ensuring safe and worry-free exploration of the skies.
Meanwhile, Luoshan County in Henan—known as the second hometown of the crested ibis—welcomes some 30,000 birdwatchers each year, 80 percent of whom are seniors. Authorities have mapped out 69 viewing platforms and opened 60 hotels and eateries, turning birdwatching from a pastime into a blossoming local industry.
With ecosystems teeming with life and communities embracing this trend, seniors on the Chinese mainland are proving that age is no barrier to adventure, and that the love of nature can spark sustainable growth in even the most remote corners.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
