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Shahe Reservoir - Gonghuacheng Peninsula

Beijing  >  China

Large water resevoir with busy bird life through out the year and a preferred wintering site for many migrants.

Added* by Xiang Sicong
Most recent update 11 јануари 2026

Description

Shahe Reservoir (沙河水库) is divided into four main observation areas: the south bank, the north bank, the dam to the east, and the protruding Gonghuacheng Peninsula to the west. The heart of the reservoir hosts many water bird species like Ruddy Shelduck, Greylag Goose, Swan Goose and various terns and gulls. In the reedbeds along the coast and around the penninsula hide Vinous-throated Parrotbill, Oriental Reed Warbler and Hen Harrier. The shallow near the dam is a popular feeding ground for herons and waders, including Little Egret, Black-crowned Night Heron, Avocet and Black-winged Stilt. It is common to see soaring raptors above the reservoir during spring and autumn migration. Regular wintering species include Common Pochard, Gadwall and Smew.

Details

Access

Shahe Reservoir is located in the north‑western part of Beijing, about 40 km from the city center. By metro, the most accessible area is the Gonghuacheng Peninsula in the west (Gonghuacheng 巩华城), with a station (1) of the same name (Changping Line). Exiting the metro station, you can immediately access the public park sitting on this peninsula. If planning to visit the south/north bank or the dam, it is best to get off at a different metro station nearly in this area and take a taxi.

Shahe Reservoir covers an expansive area that is worth repeated visits in different seasons.

Terrain and Habitat

Wetland , Reedbeds , Lake

Conditions

Flat , Open landscape

Circular trail

No

Is a telescope useful?

Can be useful

Good birding season

All year round

Best time to visit

Winter

Route

Paved road , Unpaved road

Difficulty walking trail

Easy

Accessible by

Foot , Bicycle , Car

Birdwatching hide / platform

No

Links

View other birding spots in the area that are published on Birdingplaces

Map

Top 5 birds

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