MER HERBUE - CAO HAI

Situated in the south-west of the city, Caohai's "Herbue sea" is named because of the forest of reeds which covers nearly 70% of its surface. Shallow (about 2 metres), the place is often compared to a swamp. The lake is among the natural jewels in Guizhou province. Bordered by rice fields, it covers about 20 km ² and was classified as a national natural reserve by the Chinese government in 1992. This reserve hosts many bird species that can be observed throughout the year, including the black-collar crane, which is in the process of extinction.