Siberian cranes are pictured at Huanzidong National Wetland Park in Faku county, Shenyang, Liaoning province on March 27. [Photo/syd.com.cn]

The 10th Shenyang Faku International Siberian Crane Festival commenced in Faku county, Shenyang, Northeast China's Liaoning province on March 27.

The festival, organized by Shenyang Forestry Bureau, Shenyang Tourism Commission and the government of Faku county, aims to promote the local culture of the Siberian crane and improve the awareness of environmental protection.

Folk dances and violin performances were staged during the opening ceremony, attracting thousands of visitors across the country.

The festival will last for 40 days.

In 2012, Faku county was named as the “Township of Siberian crane in China” by the China Wildlife Conservation Association (CWCA). Huanzidong National Wetland Park in the county is a key rest stop during the birds’ north to south migration, as well as on their return journey.

Each spring and autumn, approximately 60,000 rare birds including 2,000 cranes –– more than 70 percent of the total world population –– congregate at Huanzidong National Wetland Park. Covering a wetland area of 2,047 hectares, the park offers a habitat where the migratory birds can stop during their journey.

A crane will stay for about 90-100 days to rest, and will eat enough to add 20 percent of its body weight as it prepares to continue on to Siberia.