More than 20 thousand Arctic ducks bought by Guolemude Town in Golmud, Qinghai Province, have become accustomed to the local climate and started to lay eggs. Because of its cold and dry climate, no ducks have previously been raised in the province.

Last month, the town bought the ducks and raised them in a wetland with plenty of water and grass. The ducks' owners estimated the birds will bring them a profit of 1.7 million yuan (US$210,000) within two years.