Coastal preserve
Yellow Sea Wetlands
China, Korea
The tidal flats of the Yellow Sea are the most important refueling stop for shorebirds traveling between the Arctic and Australasia.
A sea named for its silt
The Yellow Sea lies between mainland China and the Korean Peninsula. It takes its name from the golden silt carried by major rivers such as the Yellow River. That sediment builds wide, highly productive mudflats along its shores.
Why it matters for birds
Millions of shorebirds travel the East Asian–Australasian Flyway each year between breeding grounds in Siberia and Alaska and wintering grounds as far south as Australia and New Zealand. The Yellow Sea mudflats are where many of them stop to feed. For some species there is no alternative.
Under pressure
Large areas of tidal flat have been lost to land reclamation for ports, industry and farming. Pollution, algal blooms and invasive species add to the pressure. Shorebird populations that depend on these flats have fallen sharply.
Turning the tide
Recognition has grown. Coastal bird sanctuaries in China and the tidal flats of Korea are now World Heritage Sites, and large-scale reclamation has been restricted.
Get involved
Visited, studied or worked at this site? Share your observations or photos with us.