Core Insights - The article highlights the growing trend of birdwatching among the elderly population in Beijing, showcasing their active engagement in this hobby and its economic implications for local communities [1][5][11]. Group 1: Birdwatching Trend - The number of birdwatchers in mainland China has surged to 340,000, a significant increase from 140,000 in 2018, with a notable rise in the elderly demographic [11]. - Elderly birdwatchers are increasingly investing in photography equipment, with sales of digital cameras for this demographic seeing over 100% year-on-year growth [11][13]. - Birdwatching events are being organized as competitions, attracting both elderly participants and younger individuals, fostering intergenerational engagement [7]. Group 2: Economic Impact - The rise in birdwatching has led to the development of local economies, particularly in small towns where birdwatching tourism is becoming a significant source of income [16][22]. - Villages like Mangba in Yunnan are capitalizing on the birdwatching trend by offering accommodations and services tailored to photographers, enhancing the local tourism experience [20][22]. - In places like Luo Shan, Henan, the infrastructure has been improved to accommodate elderly visitors, including the construction of accessible facilities and the establishment of numerous birdwatching points [36][40]. Group 3: Community Engagement - The elderly population is not only participating in birdwatching but also contributing to the local culture by sharing their experiences and photographs, which adds emotional value to their activities [5][9]. - Local communities are adapting to the influx of birdwatchers by creating supportive environments, such as building birdwatching platforms and enhancing local amenities [20][28].

Core Viewpoint - The rise of birdwatching enthusiasts in China is driving the development of a "birdwatching economy," which is becoming a new engine for local cultural and tourism economic growth [1] Group 1: Birdwatching Economy Development - China is home to over 1,500 bird species, making it one of the countries with the richest bird diversity in the world [1] - The "birdwatching economy" is emerging as a significant contributor to the cultural and tourism sectors in various regions [1] Group 2: Local Initiatives and Infrastructure - In 2024, Danshang Village in Mingxi County plans to build 12 unique stargazing houses to attract tourists for birdwatching and stargazing experiences [4] - The village has established a birdwatching cooperative, constructing over 30 specialized birdwatching facilities to provide comprehensive services for visitors [6] - A mini-program called "Birdwatching Mingxi" has been developed to offer real-time bird information and various local tourism services [7] Group 3: Economic Impact and Market Growth - In the first quarter of 2025, Mingxi County received 341,000 tourists, generating a total tourism revenue of 298 million yuan [9] - The popularity of birdwatching has boosted the sales of photography equipment related to ecological photography, with significant increases in sales and rentals of cameras and lenses [9][11] - Long-focus lenses are essential for ecological photography, with a notable rise in sales of both standard and super telephoto lenses since 2025 [11][12] Group 4: Rental Services and Business Expansion - Many businesses have started offering camera rental services, with daily rental prices ranging from 100 to 300 yuan depending on the equipment [16] - As the ecological photography community grows, businesses are expanding their offerings, including dedicated "ecological shooting areas" and photography courses to enhance customer engagement [17]

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the harmonious relationship between wildlife protection, specifically the black-necked crane, and the development of cultural tourism in Lhasa, Tibet, showcasing the efforts of local communities and researchers in preserving this unique species while promoting local economic growth through eco-tourism [1][2][3] Group 1: Wildlife Protection - The black-necked crane is the only crane species that breeds and lives in high-altitude areas, and it is classified as a first-class protected animal in China [1] - The population of black-necked cranes in Lhasa has been steadily increasing due to collaborative efforts from local government and society [2] - Continuous scientific research and monitoring are being conducted to support the protection of black-necked cranes, with significant contributions from experts like Li Liancheng [2] Group 2: Cultural Tourism Development - The presence of black-necked cranes has led to the creation of cultural products, such as 3D carved lamp boxes, which are gaining popularity in the market [2] - Birdwatching activities have emerged as a new economic growth point, contributing to the local economy while promoting wildlife conservation [3] - The black-necked crane has been designated as the city bird of Lhasa, reflecting the community's affection and support for this species [2]