Many birds have been caught by fowling nets and sold to restaurants near Nanchang Zoo in Jiangxi province.

Local residents said that December to March is the best time for bird hunting in Nanchang, and dead birds can frequently be seen hanging in the nets near the zoo.

Hunting for wild birds is illegal.

Most of the culvers, pheasants, peacocks and other birds were netted by local restaurants.

A wild goose sells for 128 yuan ($21) and wild rabbits fetch 176 yuan per kg.