Power linemen protecting swans in Liaoning

SHENYANG — After completing a day of work as power linemen, Liu Yushan and his colleagues in Chaoyang, Liaoning province, often gather on the riverbank to observe the swans there.

For these employees of the State Grid's Chaoyang power supply company, bird-watching is more than just a form of relaxation, it's an integral part of their voluntary jobs each spring.

With the melting of snow and ice on the Linghe River, flocks of swans, either gracefully flying in the sky or joyfully frolicking in the wetlands of the Baishi Reservoir, attract numerous shutterbugs and tourists from near and far.

After parking near a bridge at dusk, the workers swiftly set up 17 long-range floodlights directed at a 66-kilovolt power line, a practice which ensures that swans do not collide with the wires and can safely navigate their way to their habitat on the Linghe.

Using a telescope, the workers meticulously observe the swans from a distance, diligently recording key details such as the number of birds, the date, weather conditions and temperature in their "Swan Diary".

This special initiative began in March 2018 after Liu witnessed a swan collide with a power line, which caused a loud boom.

"I saw it break its wing, and it whined continuously," he recalled. "That scene pained my heart."

To ensure the safety of these migratory birds, the Chaoyang power supply company decided to establish a swan-guarding crew comprising six power linemen, including Liu.

The company has also invited bird experts to offer lectures and collaborate on formulating swan protection plans.