Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the significant improvement in the ecological quality of bird habitats in China, alongside the alarming rise in illegal bird hunting and trading, which has formed a "black and gray industrial chain" around wildlife trafficking [1]. Group 1: Bird Protection Status - China is home to over 1,500 bird species, accounting for approximately one-sixth of the world's bird species [1]. - Wild bird protection levels in China are categorized into four tiers: National Level I, National Level II, Local Key Protection, and "Three Have" protected birds, which possess important ecological, scientific, and social value [1]. Group 2: Illegal Bird Trade - Investigations reveal that bird vendors openly sell protected species, including those listed as National Level II and "Three Have" protected birds, often near signs promoting bird protection [3][4]. - The lack of effective regulation allows illegal bird sales to flourish, with vendors operating in plain sight while regulatory personnel appear to ignore the situation [4]. Group 3: Methods of Bird Capture - Various illegal methods for capturing birds are employed, including the use of "snap traps" and "electronic bird callers" to lure birds into traps [5][7]. - Reports indicate that during migration seasons, illegal trapping activities are rampant, with significant evidence of capture nets found in various locations [9]. Group 4: Online Trading Platforms - Social media and short video platforms have become new avenues for the illegal trade of wild birds, with vendors livestreaming sales of protected species [10]. - Some vendors create hidden WeChat groups for auctioning captured birds, often disguising their activities with misleading labels like "self-breeding" [10][11]. Group 5: Transportation of Illegal Wildlife - Despite regulations prohibiting the shipment of live animals, illegal bird vendors claim they can send birds via express delivery, often mislabeling them as poultry [12]. - Investigations confirm that birds can be shipped successfully, highlighting the loopholes in enforcement of existing laws [12]. Group 6: Ecological Importance and Call to Action - Birds play crucial roles in ecological functions such as predation regulation, pollination, and maintaining biodiversity [14]. - The article emphasizes the need for collective efforts from government, businesses, social organizations, and the public to combat illegal wildlife trade and enhance awareness of bird protection [14].

Core Viewpoint - The illegal trade of wild birds in China is thriving despite the country's efforts to protect bird species and their habitats, leading to a significant ecological threat [1][35]. Group 1: Bird Protection and Illegal Trade - Bird species are crucial for maintaining ecological balance, and their populations have been increasing due to improved habitat quality [1]. - Despite legal protections, illegal hunting and trading of birds have formed a "black and gray industrial chain" driven by profit motives [1]. - The Tianjin Qianlidi Bird Market showcases illegal sales, with vendors openly selling protected species like hummingbirds, which are banned from capture and sale [4][6]. Group 2: Regulatory Failures - Regulatory enforcement appears ineffective, with some officials ignoring the illegal sale of wild birds, leading to a tacit agreement between vendors and enforcement personnel [8][9]. - In various locations, such as Shenyang and Liao Yang, vendors operate freely, often in close proximity to regulatory banners that are not enforced [11][13]. Group 3: Methods of Illegal Capture - The use of advanced trapping techniques, including "electronic bird media" and "absolute nets," has been reported, significantly increasing the efficiency of illegal bird capture [20][22]. - During migration seasons, illegal trapping activities are rampant, with volunteers discovering extensive networks of traps in various regions [22]. Group 4: Online Marketplaces - Social media and short video platforms have become new venues for the illegal trade of wild birds, with vendors using these platforms to sell protected species [23][24]. - Some vendors create hidden groups to auction captured birds, often disguising their activities with misleading labels like "self-breeding" [26][28]. Group 5: Transportation of Illegal Trade - Despite regulations prohibiting the shipment of live animals, illegal bird sales often involve deceptive practices, such as labeling birds as "meat and eggs" for shipping [29][34]. - Investigations reveal that vendors are willing to circumvent shipping laws, demonstrating the persistence of the illegal trade network [30][32]. Group 6: Call to Action - The protection of bird species requires a collective effort from government, businesses, NGOs, and the public to dismantle the illegal trade network [35]. - Raising awareness and enforcing existing laws are essential steps to ensure the survival of bird populations and the health of ecosystems [35].