The results of our research on population distribution and dynamics of the wintering Red Crown Cranes in Yancheng National Nature Reserve show that the wintering population in the area has increased from 230 in the time of nature reserve establishment to 1 128 in 2000.However,the population has decreased since then,and the number of red crown cranes recorded in the spring of 2008 is only 640.During the research a number of counting tools,including binoculars,telescopes and cameras were used.The methodologies of direct counting and literature review were used.The results indicate that the overall population of wintering red crown cranes is decreasing,and that its distribution percentage in artificial wetlands has also decreased from 76.4% in the spring of 2000 to 50.5% in 2008.Analysis of the population dynamics suggests the wintering population of red crown crane is likely to remain stable and/or to increase,while some of the population will migrate out of this region.Based on these findings,the present article discusses the conservation and management issues of the wintering red crown cranes,and proposes the establishment of an artificial wetland ecological economy.