Liaoning sanctuaries secure world heritage status

UNESCO recently added two migratory bird sanctuaries in Northeast China's Liaoning province to the World Heritage List during the 46th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee in New Delhi, India. Snake Island in the Laotieshan National Nature Reserve and the Dandong Yalu River Estuary secured the spot thanks to their cultural, historical and scientific significance.

Snake Island is part of the Snake Island-Laotieshan National Nature Reserve in Dalian's Lyushunkou district. It is an ideal stopover spot for migratory birds as they fly south across the Bohai Strait.

One animal that benefits from the migration is the unique Shedao island pitviper (Gloidyus shedaoensis), which preys on small birds as they make their biannual journey. Snake Island is home to nearly 20,000 of these venomous snakes, which are endemic to the area.