White swans fly over Xiahewan Reservoir in Guangling county, Shanxi province. More than 200 white swans have been spending the winter in the local area. [Photo/sxrb.com]

Flocks of white swans have recently been observed flying around Xiahewan Reservoir, a part of Huliu River wetland in Guangling county, Shanxi province.

The wetland in Guangling county has become a vital habitat for migratory birds as a result of the county's efforts to develop itself into a national eco-city with a good water quality.

In order to meet this objective, the county has carried out a wetland renovation project covering more than 1,530 hectares of the basin of Huliu River –– to protect local wetlands and improve water quality.

The project has so far attracted investment of more than 70 million yuan ($11.06 million), formed nine lakes and cultivated various wetland plants in an area measuring some 94 hectares. And more than 200 white swans have come to Xiahewan Reservoir this winter.

The improved local environment has also attracted senior residents from Beijing, with many choosing to retire to the area.

"I once taught in Guangling county which used to have little vegetation and a dry climate," said Fu Jingzun, a retired official from Beijing.

"But now, it's an ideal place to spend my retirement due to its clean sky, fresh air and greenery," he added.

The county will next develop a healthcare base for North Shanxi by taking advantage of the wetland resources of Huliu River in 2018. Apartments for senior residents have already been built and opened at the base. A health care center, covering 4.79 hectares and equipped with a fishing area, feeding area, park and an entertainment plaza, will also be built there.