Egrets, cattle egrets and black-winged stilts have been spotted in the rice fields of Jingkou Ancient Village in Guangming, adding to the rural landscape as newly upgraded farmland takes shape.

Recently, a 17-mu (about 11,333 square meters) plot of basic farmland near the entrance to the village was renovated and put into large-scale rice cultivation. The project preserved the area’s natural agricultural landscape while turning previously idle farmland into a space for ecological sightseeing, farming experiences, family activities and nature education.

The rice fields, stretching alongside the century-old village’s traditional gray-brick houses and tiled roofs, have become a new attraction in the community.

Jingkou Community has held a rice-planting activity for children and families, allowing participants to work in the fields and learn about traditional farming practices.

As the rice plants have grown, the fields have developed into a small ecosystem that has attracted groups of egrets and other birds seeking food and shelter.