Every year, thousands of swans from Siberia and Mongolia fly to a park in Sanmenxia in central China's Henan province for the winter. Thanks to local environmental efforts, more of the birds are coming. It's now considered home to the largest group of migratory swans.

For people in Sanmenxia, Henan province, November means it’s time to enjoy the thousands of swans migrating from Siberia and Mongolia.
 
So far, more than 2,000 swans have arrived in the city’s Swan Lake Wetland National Park as part of their winter migration.
 
Experts say 7,000 more are expected in the following month.

"Since the 1960s, migratory swans have spent the winter months in Sanmenxia. The geographic and climatic advantages create an ideal environment for them," said Gao Ruyi, director, Sanmenxia Animal Protection Bureau.

"Every year, the preparatory work for the swans starts at the beginning of October. We usually store corn as their food. And we hire people to disinfect their habitats in case of bird flu. In 2014, at least 8,000 swans chose this park for their winter migration location. "
 
"All the outdoor grill houses are closed around the park. Fireworks are not allowed in the winter. Cars are forbidden to honk their horns," said Zhang Mingyun, director, Sanmenxia Swans Protection Association.

"And special isolation belts are set up in the park to provide a better environment for tourists to observe the swans and ensure minimal disturbance to the birds."

The city has been dubbed "the city of swans". And the natural spectacle attracts thousands of tourists and photographers every year.
 
"I started to take pictures of swans and other birds in 2009. I and many other photographers across the country feel this is the best location to take pictures," said Gao Hongwei, local resident.

"It's so easy because they are very close to people. Swans are supposed to be sensitive birds and afraid of people. But we can see how they trust this place. "
 
Experts say swans are intelligent and sensitive birds. If they find the place not suitable to spend the winter months, they won't return. Sanmenxia is considered the home to the largest number of migratory swans coming to China from Siberia and Mongolia every winter. And that number is increasing every year. A testament to the local environmental efforts.