Egrets attract observers in GuangzhouEgrets have recently become a major tourist attraction in the Conghua district of Guangzhou, Guangdong province. (Photo by Li Xiaotong for chinadaily.com.cn)A large number of egrets have recently become a major tourist attraction in the Conghua district of Guangzhou, Guangdong province.Every day, hundreds of the birds are seen gathering in groups, skimming the water and chasing each other along the Liuxi River in the district's forest park.Sometimes, they can be seen hovering over the river, diving into the water for food or resting in trees along the bank, soaking up the sunshine and emitting pleasant sounds from time to time.The beautiful and harmonious natural scenery is attracting many tourists and photographers to come to enjoy.Egrets have recently become a major tourist attraction in the Conghua district of Guangzhou, Guangdong province. (Photo by Li Xiaotong for chinadaily.com.cn)The large number of egrets indicates improvement and optimization of the local environment and ecology, according to a statement released by the Conghua district government on November 1.Egrets have high requirements for their habitat and are said to be "monitors" of air and water quality, the statement said.The district government has adhered to the concept of ecological priority and green development and constantly strengthened the protection and restoration of the local environment, while also developing its economy in recent years.The improving environment and ecology has helped Conghua — celebrated for its lychee fruit — attract a growing number of wild birds, including egrets, to reproduce in recent years, creating a harmonious and beautiful ecological picture for local residents and tourists, the statement said.Egrets have recently become a major tourist attraction in the Conghua district of Guangzhou, Guangdong province. (Photos by Li Xiaotong for chinadaily.com.cn)