The centres provide geopark and geotour information for visitors,

Hoi Ha Visitor Centre, which is adjacent to the Hoi Ha Wan popularise earth science, and promote the natural and cultural
Marine Park, has an exhibition hall which provides visitors with heritage of the geopark, in furtherance of green tourism and
information about the marine park and the rich marine the sustainable development of the geopark communities.
biodiversity in Hong Kong. The marine reserve is strictly
protected for nature conservation, scientific research and Networking: Hong Kong Geopark participates actively in
educational studies, hence no recreational activities are exchanges with other UNESCO global geoparks, hosting
allowed. exchange forums, and organising workshops and training
programmes for global and Asia Pacific geoparks.
GEOPARK
Hong Kong Geopark is located in the east and northeast parts CONSERVATION
of Hong Kong, comprising the Sai Kung Volcanic Rock Region The nature conservation policy is to regulate, protect and
and the Northeast New Territories Sedimentary Rock Region, manage natural resources that are important for the
with a total land area of over 150 km2. conservation of biodiversity of Hong Kong in a sustainable
The Sai Kung Volcanic Rock Region is the relic of a 140- manner, taking into account social and economic
million-year old supervolcano. Among the diverse geoheritage considerations, for the benefit and enjoyment of the present
in the region, the most important is the rhyolitic volcanic and future generations of the community. The first city-level
hexagonal columnar rock formation. The rock columns are 1.2 Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan for Hong Kong was
metres in diameter, on average, with the biggest ones published in December 2016, to step up conservation efforts
measuring three metres across, and they are tens of metres and support sustainable development.
high above ground, with a land-and-sea distribution of The proportion of land area put under the protected area
approximately 100 km2. The distribution, column size and rock system in Hong Kong compares favourably with other
type of the formation are globally rare. In combination with the cities/places at similar stage of economic development.
diverse coastal erosion landforms in the area, the rock Moreover, despite its small size and rapid development over
columns form a magnificent natural landscape. The columnar the years, Hong Kong still enjoys a rich biodiversity. The
rock formation is selected as one of the First 100 International AFCD, through its territory-wide survey programme, identifies
Union of Geological Sciences (IUGS) Geological Heritage and monitors the important components of biodiversity in
Sites in 2022, which recognizes its international importance. Hong Kong. The AFCD also publishes field guides and
The major geosites in the Sai Kung Volcanic Rock Region are maintains the Hong Kong Biodiversity Online
the High Island Reservoir East Dam, Tai Long Wan and Sharp (www.hkbiodiversity.net), Hong Kong Biodiversity Information
Island. High Island, Kau Sai Chau and Yim Tin Tsai are the Hub (bih.gov.hk)
rural communities in this region. Nat and Instagram pages) to
The Northeast New Territories Sedimentary Rock
Region is home to a complete sedimentary rock sequence,
formed 400 to 55 million years ago, from the Palaeozoic to the Habitat Protection: About 40 per cent of land in Hong Kong
Cenozoic. It is a rich showcase of sedimentary rocks, has been designated as country parks and special areas
geological structures and fossils. This region also offers a host which provide statutory protection for the habitats of diverse
of diverse habitats, which support high biodiversity. The flora and fauna. In addition, 67 Sites of Special Scientific
Hakka and fishing villages distributed across the region pride Interest (SSSIs) have been listed to recognise the scientific
themselves on their rich history and cultural heritage. The importance of these sites. For example, Ma On Shan and Sha
main geosites are Ma Shi Chau, Lai Chi Chong, Lo Tung have been listed as SSSIs in recognition of the
and Tung Ping Chau, and the main rural communities are Lai presence of the diverse populations of azaleas and
Chi Wo, Kat O and Ap Chau. dragonflies in Hong Kong respectively. Due consideration to
conservation is given when developments in or near these
Conservation, Education and Sustainable Development: sites are proposed.
Hong Kong Geopark has worked closely with all stakeholders The AFCD also implements active conservation
to conserve the geological and ecological heritage in the area programmes to enhance important habitats. These include the
and organise a wide range of education activities to popularise implementation of Plantation Enrichment Programme in
earth science. The geopark communities are also engaged in country parks and management of vegetation in forests,
a cultural and intangible heritage conservation project to egretries and SSSIs.
explore and preserve the vibrant local history and culture. The
project not only enhances our promotional and educational Flora: The flora of Hong Kong is diverse in character and
contents, but also provides new resources for local green surprisingly rich in species. Many typical species of the
tourism. Southeast Asian tropical flora are seen here at the limit of their
Hong Kong Geopark has designed 13 land excursion northern distribution range. More than 3 300 species and
routes and two boat tour routes, and established a geopark varieties of vascular plants have been recorded in Hong Kong,
visitor centre, a volcano discovery centre, a geoheritage approximately 2 100 of which are native and the rest are
centre and five geopark community story rooms. All these introduced or of exotic origin.
GovHK Website: http://www.gov.hk Agriculture, Fisheries & Conservation Department
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Hong Kong Herbarium: Established in 1878, the AFCD's Birds: Hong Kong is a major stopover point for migratory birds
Hong Kong Herbarium is responsible for the systematic in East Asia. The wide variety of local habitats including
collection, identification and curation of plant specimens of the wetlands, grasslands, woodlands, seashores and farmlands
Hong Kong flora. The Herbarium also publishes the Check List contributes to the diversity of birds. There are over 578
of Hong Kong Plants, herbarium leaflet series and other species of wild birds including residents, winter visitors,
related technical publications (e.g. Flora of Hong Kong). It passage migrants, summer visitors, occasional visitors and
plays a significant role in supporting the studies on taxonomy, vagrants, recorded in Hong Kong. Over 60 of them are
ecology and conservation of Hong Kong flora. Currently it globally threatened or near-threatened species. About 100
houses approximately 50 000 plant specimens and is resident species have been recorded breeding in the territory.
equipped with a specialised library and a plant database The Mai Po Marshes are listed as a Restricted Area
(herbarium.gov.hk) to support its function. under the Wild Animals Protection Ordinance and access is
restricted to permit holders. This area comprises extensive
Conservation of Flora: Efforts have been made to conserve mudflat, mangrove and gei wais, forming the richest wetland
native flora in Hong Kong. In addition to habitat protection, habitats for migratory birds in Hong Kong. The Marshes forms
they are also conserved through the following approaches. part of the 1 500-hectare Mai Po Inner Deep Bay Ramsar Site
Species Protection: Under the Forests and which has been listed as a Wetland of International
Countryside Ordinance, damaging plant in any forest or Importance under the Ramsar Convention since 1995. The
plantation on government land is prohibited. Some rare and Asian-Australasian
attractive species such as Camellia species, Enkianthus
quinqueflorus, Iris speculatrix and Impatiens hongkongensis, communication and cooperation in the conservation of
are specifically listed in the Forestry Regulations to control migratory waterbirds. About 400 species of birds, including a
their sale and possession. number of endangered species (e.g. Black-faced Spoonbill,
Propagation: Various methods such as seed collection, Spoon-billed Sa
cutting, air layering, etc, have been used to propagate Hong been recorded in the Ramsar Site.

Amphibians and Reptiles: Hong Kong has a total of 115

countryside for enriching local biodiversity. Rare species species of amphibians and reptiles. Among them, snake is the
successfully propagated include Keteleeria fortunei, Camellia largest group, with 53 species. The largest snake is the locally
crapnelliana and Camellia granthamiana. protected Burmese Python, whose body length could reach 6
Ex-situ Conservation: A base for flora conservation metres. On the other hand, the smallest members, blind
has been set up at the Shing Mun Arboretum. About 300 snakes, are only 15 centimetres long. There are 21 native
species representative to the native flora, including some rare
and endangered species have been propagated and Burrowing Lizard, which has been reported in only a few
established there for conservation and education purposes. A localities. There are 10 native species of chelonians in Hong
greenhouse has also been set up for conservation of fragile Kong, among which the Green Turtle is of particular
species and orchids. conservation interest in that it is the only species of sea turtles
nesting locally. To minimise human disturbance and protect
Terrestrial Mammals: Hong Kong has 55 species of their nesting site, the beach at Sham Wan of Lamma Island
terrestrial mammals. It is not uncommon to hear Barking Deer was designated as a Restricted Area in 1999, and was
call or catch a glimpse of East Asian Porcupine in the woods subsequently expanded in April 2021 from the beach to the
at night. Large mammals like Leopard Cat, Small Indian Civet adjacent inlet. The restricted period was also extended from
and Masked Palm Civet can even be spotted, if one is lucky five months to seven months (April 1 to October 31) every year.
enough. Eurasian Wild Pigs are common in the wooded areas Hong Kong has 25 species of amphibians. Three of
but may occasionally wander into the adjacent residential or them, Hong Kong Cascade Frog, Hong Kong Newt and
public areas when searching for food. Romer's Tree Frog, have been listed as protected wild animals
Unlike others, Rhesus Macaques are easily seen in Kam under the Wild Animals Protection Ordinance. A site in Ngong
Shan and Shing Mun Country Parks. Visitors are reminded not Ping of Lantau Island supports one of the largest populations
to feed monkeys or other wild animals as it is illegal, and of Romer's Tree Frog and has been listed as a Site of Special
uncontrolled feeding can lead to unnatural population growth Scientific Interest (SSSI) in May 1999 to protect the habitat of
and caused nuisances. this valuable frog.

Spiny Rat and Musk Shrew are commonly encountered in Insects: Hong Kong has a rich insect fauna. There are 245
rural areas, whereas bats, which constitute almost half of the species of butterflies, including the eye-catching Swallowtails.
terrestrial mammal species in Hong Kong, are often found With wings that span up to 30 centimetres, Atlas Moth is
near caves and water tunnels. Common species include outstanding for its large size among the numerous species of
Himalayan Leaf-nosed Bat, Chinese Horseshoe Bat and moths found in Hong Kong. With 132 species recorded so far,
Greater Bent-winged Bat. the dragonfly fauna in Hong Kong is diverse, comprising the
GovHK Website: http://www.gov.hk Agriculture, Fisheries & Conservation Department
Information contained in this publication may be freely used. Home Page address:
January 2024
No acknowledgement is necessary. http://www.afcd.gov.hk
globally threatened Chinese Tiger and Anaciaeschna martini,
the latest additions to .

Aquatic Animal: The marine fauna of Hong Kong is

exceedingly diverse. Though primarily tropical, it is an
admixture of tropical South China Sea and temperate Chinese
forms because of the seasonal fluctuations of warm and cold
water and monsoon weather conditions.
There are more than 1 000 marine fish species within
Hong Kong waters, representing about 30% of marine fish
diversity of the South China Sea. Gobies, wrasses, groupers,
jacks and snappers are some of the most species-rich marine
fish families.
Marine invertebrates are also abundant, ranging from corals,
molluscs to crustaceans. There are 84 species of hard corals
in Hong Kong. The richest coral communities prevail to the
east and northeast of Hong Kong where the waters are both
sheltered and free from the influence of Pearl River.
Chinese White Dolphins and Finless Porpoises are
resident species and can be found year-round. All cetaceans
are protected in Hong Kong under the Wild Animals Protection
Ordinance.
There are 196 species of freshwater fish, of which about
70 primary freshwater species spend their entire lives in
freshwater habitat. Of the primary freshwater fish, cyprinids
are dominant. Other freshwater fish include the brackish
species and marine vagrants.

Hong Kong Wetland Park: The Hong Kong Wetland Park

aims to promote nature conservation and education, as well
as nature-based tourism. The 61-hectare park comprises a 10
000-square meter visitor centre with interactive galleries
showcasing the functions and values of wetlands and an
outdoor wetland reserve with a wide range of habitats,
including freshwater marshes, mangroves, woodlands,
shrublands, reedbeds and mudflats, demonstrating the

displays in a delightful natural setting, the park offers a

rewarding experience for visitors to discover the wonderful
world of wetlands.
The park also serves as a hub of nature conservation
education organising numerous activities for the general
public, schools and tourists, such as guided tours, workshops,

park by taking the Light Rail at Tin Shui Wai MTR Station. The
standard admission fee to the park is $30. Concessionary
tickets, including those for students, seniors (aged 65 or
above) and people with disabilities, are also offered at $15.

GovHK Website: http://www.gov.hk Agriculture, Fisheries & Conservation Department

Information contained in this publication may be freely used. Home Page address:
January 2024
No acknowledgement is necessary. http://www.afcd.gov.hk