He added that they have begun to lose their fear of people after staying there for so long, although they still fly off if he gets within 100 or 200 meters of them.

Zhu now devotes most of his time to the birds, sometimes carrying out observations with the association.

"It's much more interesting than playing mahjong," he said.

The association gave him a telescope and camera, and taught him how to recognize birds and take photos of them.

"Some of my photos have been given a thumbs-up by friends and netizens, which gives me a sense of achievement," Zhu said, adding that he can now recognize 50 kinds of birds.

"They have been to Siberia and India, and now they're here with me. I feel like my connection with the world has grown closer," he said.

According to Yan Jun, Baer's pochards have been seen in 12 Wuhan wetlands, and their breeding grounds have expanded in recent years. About 110 volunteers from the association work toward their protection, he said, adding that the extremely endangered species plays an essential role in global biodiversity.

He added that he is pleased that Zhu is willing to participate, as some pond owners don't cooperate because the ducks can affect their businesses.

"He is willing to accept new ideas and likes to watch nature documentaries. This is because of the national promotion of environmental protection," Yan said. "It's only through the participation of more people like Zhu that the environment will improve."

Zhu said he doesn't want the Baer's pochard to disappear.

"I hope future generations will be able to see it, too."

Contact the writers at chenmeiling@chinadaily.com.cn