Hongjiannao is located in the northwest of Shenmu City, Shaanxi Province, 70 kilometers from Shenmu City. It is located at the intersection of Ordos grassland and Maowusu Desert, and is China's largest desert freshwater lake, known as the "sea in the desert". The lake has a vast water area of 35.2 square kilometers, with seven seasonal rivers flowing in along the shore. The average water depth is 8.2 meters, and the deepest water level is 12 meters. The lake is under great environmental protection, with rich and diverse biological species, thus known as the "lung and kidney" of Yulin City and Ordos region.               

The beautiful Hongjiannao Lake Erlintu Grassland

Hongjiannao Lake, originally located on a concave sandy land, is the convergence of groundwater and surface water, formed in the twenties of the last century. Though formed less than a hundred years, it is the key national wetland, also an important habitat for the relic gull, which is under first-class protection in the country, and other rare and endangered birds.

Once with the shrunk water area, damaged ecological function, and destructed species diversity, the Hongjiannao, however, is now endowed with a vast water area, spectacular scenery, and a greatly improved ecological environment.

       Grassland view of the Hongjiannao basin

During the prime time of autumn, migratory birds fly to the south. Overwintering migratory birds fly one after another and arrive at Hongjiannao, presenting a magnificent scene of hundreds of birds singing.     

Relic gull photographed at Hongjiannao  Photo by Xinhua

Hongjiannao with fine ecology and beautiful scenery, is the breeding habitat of the world's largest rare and endangered bird —— relic gull. Every year from April to August, there are 90% of the world's relic gulls breeding here, and the number of existing relic gulls in the world is less than 10,000. In addition, there are more than 50 kinds of wild birds here, such as white swans, golden eagles, red-legged falcons, ruddy ducks and mandarin ducks.       

The winter of Hongjiannao Lake is quite a frozen fairyland,  with the fascinating scene of ice.

        

The re-opened Hongjiannao Lake during the warm spring       

Round-the-Hongjiannao Lake Mountain Bike Race is more than a sport, it also conveys the concept of green, environmental protection, and sustainable development. During the race, cycling enthusiasts in Shaanxi gather in Hongjiannao. Through the joyful ride, they can immerse in the beautiful natural scenery and spectacular view of this desert lake.