He said Dalian, of which Lyushun forms a part, has 428 species of birds - and he has photographed 378 of them.

"I'm 63 now. Some birds I may have no chance to see in my life, but I recorded a new bird on my Dalian list (during this year's race) - a pine bunting," Gu said, with a smile. "It's a new record. The city's bird list should be changed to 429."

Yang Mingsen, an adviser with the China Biodiversity Conservation and Green Development Foundation, spoke highly of efforts by local authorities to protect Dalian's ecological environment.

"While birds are choosing their migration routes, they take in consideration abundant food and safe environment," he said. "We're glad to see Lyushunkou district government (which administers Lyushun) has been protecting its coast and wetlands despite the challenges brought by economic development."

The local government is working to raise awareness among residents about environmental protection, as it looks to boost green economic development. Days before the bird-watching race, for example, authorities organized a quiz for students on birds and conservation.

"Through these events, residents are becoming more aware of the importance of environmental protection and green development," said Yi Qingtao, Party chief of Lyushunkou district.