Bird Island

鸟岛

Located in Qinghai Lake, this island sanctuary is home to thousands of migratory birds including cormorants, gulls, and terns. It is best visited in spring and summer when bird populations peak, offering excellent birdwatching opportunities.

Things to do

• Birdwatching from Observation Deck — Use binoculars and telescopes from the main viewing platform to spot cormorants, black-headed gulls, and Caspian terns nesting on the rocky outcrops.
• Photograph Nesting Colonies — Capture images of thousands of birds during peak breeding season from May to July when nests are most visible and chick-rearing activity is highest.
• Boat Tour Around Island Perimeter — Circle the island by motorized boat to view different colonies from water level and access viewing angles impossible from the shore.
• Visit Bird Museum — Learn about migratory patterns, species identification, and conservation efforts through exhibits featuring taxidermied specimens and ecological information.
• Sunrise Observation Session — Arrive before dawn to witness birds' morning activity patterns and feeding behavior as the island awakens.
• Sketch or Paint Birds — Bring art supplies to document the island's avian residents in their natural habitat during calm weather conditions.

Food to try

• Qinghai Lake Fish (湟鱼) — Sample the local endemic naked-carp prepared grilled or in soup, a delicacy caught from the lake's waters surrounding the island.
• Yak Butter Tea (酥油茶) — Warm yourself with this traditional Tibetan beverage made with yak butter, salt, and tea, essential for high-altitude visitor comfort.
• Tsampa (糌粑) — Try roasted barley flour mixed with butter tea or milk, a staple food of Tibetan herders in the Qinghai region.
• Momos (馄饨) — Enjoy steamed dumplings filled with yak meat or vegetables, commonly served at island lodges and nearby villages.
• Qinghai Preserved Vegetables (腌菜) — Taste pickled local vegetables that preserve the region's produce and provide essential nutrients during long observation sessions.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Nesting Season Restrictions — Follow designated pathways and viewing zones strictly, as disturbing nesting birds can cause colony abandonment and breeding failure.
• Bring Warm Layers Year-Round — The island at 3,196 meters elevation experiences cold winds and rapid weather changes even in summer, making proper clothing essential.
• Learn Basic Tibetan Greetings — Locals and staff appreciate visitors who make effort with 'Tashi Delek' (hello) and 'Thankyou' in Tibetan, reflecting respect for the region's culture.
• Visit During Official Operating Hours — The island is closed to visitors during certain months for bird protection; check seasonal accessibility before planning your trip.