The ornithological exploration of Yunnan Province in May of 2024 at invitation of the Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences

This report briefly describes the ornithological expedition to Yunnan Province, China in May of 2024 with the main purpose being the search for suitable field stations to continue the study of selected bird species. Authors have visited five places in the province, namely vicinities of Kunming City, Dali City (including Lake Erhai and Cangshan Mt.), Shangri-la City (including Lake Napahai) and two stations of Ailaoshan Nature Reserve located at the northern and central parts of the eponymous mountain range. The study area is situated in a high biodiversity region in Yunnan Highland and Sino-Himalayan Mts. The data on number and occurrence of bird species in the study sites have been collected. The spring phenology and vocalization of selected species have been investigated. The meetings with the staff of Kunming Institute of Zoology and Ailaoshan Nature Reserve are thought to be helpful for the next stage of scientific collaboration. Travel sketches highlight contemporary aspects of conducting research in South China.