Nearly 30 international students from Shenzhen University visited the OCT Wetland Park in Nanshan District on March 21, exploring a critical transit hub located along a global migratory bird route in Shenzhen’s urban area.

International students from Shenzhen University observe migratory birds at the OCT Wetland Park in Nanshan District on March 21. Photos courtesy of event organizers

The event marked the launch of the 2026 “APEC China Year: International Students in Ecological Shenzhen” series. This initiative, designed to foster cross-cultural dialogue on environmental stewardship, brings together young people from around the world through immersive science communication and the exchange of ecological conservation ideas.

Xie Yunwen (2nd L) introduces wetland ecology to international students during an educational session.

At the wetland’s ecology exhibition hall, environmental volunteer educator Xie Yunwen delivered an introduction to wetland ecology in English. Her presentation covered successful efforts to protect bird populations and the unique survival strategies that mangroves use to thrive in the tidal zone. She also talked about the evolution of the OCT Wetland — from its history of land reclamation to its current status as a restored engineered wetland — helping students understand how urban ecological spaces can be rebuilt and sustained. 

Russian student Milana speaks during a post-tour discussion on environmental conservation.

After visiting the exhibition, students divided into two groups for an outdoor birdwatching session. Guided by volunteer educators Chen Huiting and He Zhanzhi, they used binoculars to observe and record the nesting and feeding behaviors of more than 10 wetland bird species, including egrets and black-winged stilts, along the park’s wooden boardwalks. During the discussion segment, students connected the day’s learning with their own experiences. Yulia, a student from Russia, compared waste-sorting policies across different countries and suggested that individual conservation efforts should begin with reducing plastic use. Milana, another Russian student with experience in bird research in Northern Europe, said that the OCT Wetland offers excellent environs for bird conservation and population recovery. According to the organizers, the series will continue through November. Future visits will be timed to coincide with significant days, including World Earth Day, the International Day for Biological Diversity, and World Environment Day.

Participants pose for a group photo following a tour of OCT Wetland Park in Nanshan District on March 21.