Feb 2 marks the 27th World Wetlands Day.

As an ecosystem with multiple unique functions, wetlands not only provide humans with food, raw materials and water resources, but also maintain ecological balance and biodiversity. They promote rare species, conserve water resources, prevent droughts, degrade pollution, and regulate the climate. They play an important role in replenishing groundwater and controlling soil erosion.

A view of the wetland in Beijing E-Town [Photo/beijingetown.com.cn]

After years of protection, the wetland in the Beijing E-Town has continued to expand and has grown to 127 hectares.

A view of the wetland in Beijing E-Town [Photo/beijingetown.com.cn]

The continuous strengthening of wetland protection and the improvement of the ecological environment have attracted a variety of birds to make the area their home.

Up to now, a total of 21 orders, 64 families, 163 genera, and 306 species of birds have been recorded in Beijing E-Town, accounting for 61 percent of the total number of bird species in Beijing.

Two black swans dance in the Liangshui River. [Photo/beijingetown.com.cn]

Among them are 12 species of birds under national first-class protection and 50 species under national second-class protection.

Not long ago, two black swans were spotted in the Liangshui River, looking like two birds harmoniously dancing in sync.

To cherish wetlands and protect the future, let us join hands to protect the "kidney of the earth".