Cranes of Qiqihar

There is a nature preserve in Qiqihar, a breeding ground for the red-crested crane 丹頂鶴.

The preserve is a huge wetland, “as big as two Hong Kongs” says the tour guide. Clear as mud for the Americans?

The young cranes have to “practice” flying. I heard that they keep the birds caged, and release them all at once for the visitors to see the animals exercise their “natural” habits. *sigh*