Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Located in Weining Yi, Hui, and Miao Autonomous County of Guizhou Province in southwestern China, Weining Caohai National Nature Reserve encompasses an extensive high-altitude wetland and grassland area centered around Caohai Lake. The reserve spans an area of over 4,800 hectares and sits approximately 2,200 meters above sea level on the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau. This unique wetland ecosystem is one of the largest in Guizhou and plays a critical role as a habitat for a wide range of wildlife, including numerous migratory waterfowl species such as the Black-necked Crane, which is nationally protected. The reserve's diverse flora includes rare wetland plants and alpine meadows, making it an important ecological and conservation site.
Historically, Caohai served as an important water source and cultural hub for local ethnic minorities including the Yi, Hui, and Miao peoples, whose traditional practices still influence the landscape and conservation efforts. Visitors to the reserve enjoy birdwatching, walking on boardwalks through reedbeds and marshes, boating on the lake, and photography of the rich natural scenery. During migratory seasons, the reserve attracts ornithologists and nature lovers eager to see endangered species in their natural habitat. The surrounding grasslands and wetlands also provide educational and scientific research opportunities on wetland preservation and biodiversity.
With visitor facilities such as an ecological museum and guided tours, Weining Caohai National Nature Reserve is a growing destination for eco-tourism. Its combination of pristine nature, cultural heritage, and conservation importance makes it an exemplary protected area in southwest China.