Lantau Hong Kong's Jewel .Pdf

LANTAU

HONG KONG’S JEWEL

Introduction

The preservation of Lantau is essential to the well-being of Hong Kong and all its citizens. The visual and ecological treasures that Lantau holds are unique, valuable and irreplaceable.

Yet despite this self-evident fact, Lantau continues to remain under serious threat from development. Some 25% of its coastline has been lost already and more is at imminent risk. Its offshore waters, home of the Chinese White Dolphin are becoming a graveyard for this most iconic of species. For many, Lantau is simply viewed as a well-located land bank, ignoring the wealth that nature has endowed.

This publication is intended to showcase what natural Lantau has before it is too late. We hope by so doing to provide an informed reference to prevent further senseless destruction of one of the last of Hong Kong’s wild places.

Clive Noffke Philip Yip

Notes on authors

Philip Yip is a Hong Kong born ecologist who loves the natural environment in Hong Kong.

Clive Noffke is a long term Hong Kong resident and keen hiker who lives on Lantau.

Front cover photos Sunset Peak from Lantau Peak © Clive Noffke Woodlands above Nam Shan on Sunset Peak © Clive Noffke The beach at Kau Ling Chung © Clive Noffke

Back cover photos Acrossocheilus beijiangensis © Philip Yip Creobroter gemmatus © James Hui Liuixalus romeri © Philip Yip Stenocladius bicoloripes © Philip Yip Ketupa zeylonensis © HKBWS Calanthe sylvatica © Philip Yip Leptolalax laui © Philip Yip Falco tinnunculus © HKBWS Spiranthes hongkongensis © Philip Yip Tylonycteris pachypus © Paul Crow/KFBG Caesalpinia bonduc © Green Power Leptotes plinius © James Hui Charadrius alexandrines © HKBWS Gekko gecko © James Hui Sousa chinensis © Stephen Chan/ Cetacean Ecology Lab, The University of Hong Kong Asarum hongkongense © Philip Yip Mortonagrion hirosei © Philip Yip Halophila ovalis © Philip Yip Rhinolophus sinicus © Gary Ades/ KFBG Upupa epops © HKBWS Hylarana macrodactyla © HKBWS Carcinoscorpius rotundicauda © WWF-HK

Contents

1 The Hong Kong context ...... 5 1.1 The Hong Kong Eco-system ...... 5 1.2 The Convention of Biodiversity ...... 5

2 Lantau and Islands – a general description ...... 7 2.1 Geographic ...... 7 2.2 Development ...... 7 2.3 The future ...... 8

3 The Biodiversity resources of Lantau...... 9 3.1 Coastal Areas ...... 10 3.1.1 Mangroves ...... 10 3.1.2 Seagrass beds ...... 12 3.1.3 Horseshoe crabs ...... 13 3.1.4 Fish nursery sites ...... 13 3.2 Streams ...... 15 3.2.1 Tai Ho stream ...... 15 3.2.2 Tung Chung stream ...... 16 3.2.3 Keung Shan stream area ...... 18 3.2.4 Ngong Ping stream ...... 18 3.2.5 Sunset Peak streams ...... 18 3.2.6 Sham Wat stream ...... 19 3.3 Freshwater and brackish wetlands ...... 20 3.3.1 Tai O ...... 20 3.3.2 Mui Wo ...... 21 3.3.3 Pui O...... 23 3.3.4 Shui Hau ...... 25 3.3.5 Yi O ...... 25 3.4 Forests ...... 26 3.4.1 Lantau Peak/ Ngong Ping ...... 26 3.4.2 Sunset Peak ...... 29 3.4.3 Upper Tung Chung Valley ...... 31 3.4.4 Pok To Yan and Por Kai Shan ...... 32 3.4.5 San Tau Valley Woods ...... 32 3.4.6 Mui Wo ...... 32 3.4.7 Man Cheung Po Ravine Forest ...... 33 3.4.8 Shui Hau Woodland ...... 33

3.4.9 Fan Lau Woodland ...... 35 3.4.10 Chi Ma Wan Peninsula forests ...... 35 3.4.11 Keung Shan forests ...... 35 3.4.12 Nei Lak Shan Woodland ...... 35 3.4.13 Shek Mun Shan Woodland ...... 36 3.4.14 Fung Shui Woodlands ...... 36 3.5 Other uplands ...... 37 3.5.1 San Chau Shrubland ...... 37 3.5.2 Central Lantau Uplands ...... 37 3.6 Offshore islands ...... 39 3.6.1 Shek Kwu Chau ...... 39 3.6.2 Soko Islands ...... 40 3.6.3 Sunshine Island ...... 40 3.6.4 Hei Ling Chau ...... 40 3.6.5 The Northern islands ...... 40 3.7 Offshore marine systems and cetaceans ...... 41

4 Summary ...... 43 5 Figures ...... 44 6 References: ...... 46

1 The Hong Kong context 1.1 The Hong Kong Eco-system Hong Kong is a place of surprising ecological diversity. Attached to Southern China between latitudes 22 degrees 9 minutes and 22 degrees 37 minutes N, it has an area of some 1100 km2 (including off-shore islands) in a sea setting of some 1650 km2, The sub-tropical and sea-girt setting provide opportunities for a wide variety of plant and animal and marine life.

The topography ranges from coastal mudflats and rocky coastlines, through lowland valleys to hilly uplands and mountain ranges reaching up to nearly 1000m. Vegetation cover runs the full gamut from coastal mangroves stands and sandy beaches through swampy wetlands, deep cleft mountain streams and lowland forests, to grassed uplands and craggy peaks.

Hong Kong is a repository and show case of the eco-system of Southern China. Some 3100 species of vascular plants grow in Hong Kong. 505 species of birds either call HK home or are seasonal visitors. There are 55 species of terrestrial mammals and 2 species of marine mammals. The 185 species of freshwater fish and 24 species of amphibians are 20% of China’s. There are more than 240 species of butterflies, 116 species of dragonflies and 83 species of reptiles. Some of these species are endemic to Hong Kong, many are of particular conservation interest and are legally protected due to their rarity.

Hong Kong’s natural habitats before the arrival of man were of the highest order. However the pressure of mankind has had and continues to cause, considerable detrimental effect. To its credit Hong Kong has set aside some 40% of the land area in Country Parks, which due to their nature encourage the natural retention of habitats. Marine aspects are less well protected with only 1.3% of marine areas included in Marine Parks. There is need for Hong Kong to move formally to protect and properly manage its ecological heritage, a process which has been become mandatory with the application of the Convention of Biodiversity to Hong Kong in May 2011.

1.2 The Convention of Biodiversity The Government of Hong Kong has now committed to the 1992 Convention on Biological Diversity (the Convention). Under the auspices of China (which signed in 1993) the Convention was extended to Hong Kong on 9 May 2011.

The Convention requires that parties thereto accept biological conservation as a guiding principle of policy. Hong Kong has the obligation to reduce the direct pressure on, and to improve the status of, the local biodiversity. Several important objectives of the Convention which have direct relevance to Lantau are summarized below.

Article 6: develop strategies, plans or programmes for the conservation and sustainable use of biological diversity; integrate the conservation and sustainable use of biological diversity into cross-sectoral plans, programmes and policies.

Article 8: establish a system of protected areas for conservation, and regulate and manage biological resources both within and without these areas; develop guidelines for selection and management of protected areas; promote environmentally sound development in areas adjacent to protected areas; restore degraded eco-systems; promote recovery of endangered species; control harmful alien species; develop or maintain legislation to protect threatened species and populations; regulate activities which threaten biodiversity.

Article 10: integrate consideration of biodiversity conservation and sustainable use into decision-making, and adopt measures to avoid or minimize adverse effects on biodiversity.

Whilst the government of Hong Kong has now committed to preparing a Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (BSAP) by 2015, there is an urgent need to embrace the principles of the Convention now in order to prevent further degradation and loss of our biodiversity heritage.

2 Lantau and Islands – a general description 2.1 Geographic Lantau is Hong Kong’s biggest island. It has an area of some 147 km2 which is some 13% of Hong Kong’s total land area. The waters surrounding Lantau are dotted with other islands, the larger of which have been long inhabited.

In contour Lantau is a mountainous island containing Hong Kong’s 2nd and 3rd highest peaks. There are steep mountain valleys with remnants of old growth forests, whilst the uplands are usually grassed and windswept. The natural coastline which remains is mainly rocky, with sandy beaches whose hinterland is a flood plain. Agricultural land associated with the early settlements provides examples of reverting vegetation.

Ecologically, as this article will show, Lantau qualifies at Hong Kong’s jewel. In all aspects of Hong Kong’s biodiversity, Lantau ranks as the highest. This has been reflected in the creation of Country Parks (which now cover almost 70% of the land area), and which include 9 sites of Special Scientific Interest. Notwithstanding, Lantau is not an empty space and human activities are increasing exponentially posing severe threats to the remaining wild places.

2.2 Development Lantau has long been settled. For many generations, agricultural and fishing communities took up the available suitable land and sheltered bays. It was largely a subsistence economy. Even up to 40 years ago the largest settlement on Lantau only had some 4000 people, and access was soley by ferry to only 3 settlements at Tai O, Tung Chung and Mui Wo.

Development came with the construction of the Shek Pik Reservoir in the 1950s bringing road access to South Lantau. In the 1980s a new town was commenced at Discovery Bay but being accessible then by ferry only, it had little impact on Lantau overall.

However the completion in 1997 of Hong Kong’s new international airport at Chek Lap Kok together with Tung Chung New Town and the construction of the necessary bridge, road and rail access, has brought massive and drastic change, amongst this being the loss of some 25% on Lantau’s natural coastline. Disney constructed a theme park at Pennys Bay and a cable car was constructed to bring tourists to the Ngong Ping religious center.

For many people Lantau is now viewed as ‘land bank’ for unlimited development. Developments already underway (the Hong Kong- Macau-Zhuhai bridge, the associated border crossing facility, a new link to Tuen Mun) will cement this expectation. There is likely to be a 3rd runway constructed at Chek Lap Kok.

2.3 The future This article shows what will be lost if measures are not taken to protect and conserve natural Lantau before it is too late.

3 The Biodiversity resources of Lantau The sections which follow briefly describe Lantau’s most valuable resources in terms of ecology and biodiversity. These are grouped by site, because most practical conservation measures in Hong Kong have been and probably will continue to be site-based rather than species-based.

These sites are considered to be of high conservation value based on criteria – including size, diversity, rarity, fragility and age – which are employed in conservation assessment both worldwide and in Hong Kong. Some sites may not be unusual in themselves, but are home to species which are rare, protected or of limited distribution.

The following information is a summary reference or inventory of the currently known ecological resources of Lantau. Future studies are expected to add to this database, and result in further justification to protect sites and species.

3.1 Coastal Areas

The construction of the HK International airport on Chek Lap Kok and associated works, notably the North Lantau Highway, has destroyed some 25% of Lantau’s natural coastline, including parts of the ecologically valuable Tung Chung and Tai Ho bays. As a result, the remaining natural coastline takes on a much greater significance. Much of this coastline however remains outside statutory protection (see Figure 2).

Natural coastlines are important habitats as well as being scenically very attractive. Lantau’s remaining coastline boasts stands of mangroves, seagrass beds and fish nursery sites, all of considerable ecological value. Horseshoe crabs, a species of conservation importance, are found on Lantau. Coastal vistas from hiking trails offer stunning scenery.

Specific coastal features of conservation importance are discussed below:

3.1.1 Mangroves Mangroves are well known important and unique coastal communities rendering services which include water purification, provision of fish nursery and invertebrate habitats, recycling of nutrients, storage of carbon and coastal protection (Tomlinson 1986). The mangrove ecosystem is the most important type of natural wetland found in the intertidal zone of tropical and sub-tropical regions (Tam et al. 1997). The Technical Memorandum of the Environmental Impact Ordinance Cap 499, identifies “established mangrove stands of any size” as important habitat types for Hong Kong. Notwithstanding, some 7 ha of mangrove stands were lost as part of the airport and related construction, and only belatedly replanted in mitigation at Tai O (Scott Wilson (Hong Kong Limited) 2000).

There are currently some 60 mangroves stands in Hong Kong of which 12 are on Lantau. These are located at Ma Wan Chung, Yam O, Tai Ho Wan, Tung Chung, San Tau, Sham Wat, Tai O1, Yi O, Shui Hau, Pui O Wan and Chi Ma Wan (AFCD 2011a). (See Figure 1) Whilst these are mainly small and scattered, they support a number of other rare flora and fauna species.

1 Two mangrove stands can be found in Tai O – Tai O mangrove and the compensation mangrove at Tai O Saltpan

Yi O is classed as important for conservation. It has also been associated with healthy stream and forest habitats and is one of only two sites on Lantau where the locally distributed Crested Kingfisher Ceryle lugubris has been recorded Carey et al. 2001).. In February 2012 a Eurasian Eagle Owl Bubo bubo was recorded (P. Kumar, pers. comm.), a widespread resident but one which is subject to a scarce distribution range and declining population (Carey et al. 2001; Birdlife International 2012). Apart from fauna species, the undisturbed natural streams harbor some of Hong Kong’s largest single- species stands of native orchid.

Eurasian Eagle Owl was found at Yi O by Dr. Pankaj Kumar in 2012

San Tau is another site of high conservation value due to the floristic diversity of its mangroves. This site was ranked by Tam et al. (1997) as the most important amongst the sampling sites in Hong Kong based on plant data and overall conservation values.

Shui Hau mangroves and its associated mudflat are an important perching and foraging site for migrating waterbirds and waders. The Shui Hau mudflats are additionally an excellent example of coastal protected flats. Horseshoe crabs (Tachypleus tridentatus) are found here (Morton and Morton 1983; Shin et al. 2009).

Tai O mangroves are the only recorded site outside of Inner Deep Bay where the Mangrove Water Snake Enhydris bennettii is known in Hong Kong (M. Lau, pers, comm.).

3.1.2 Seagrass beds Seagrass beds and mangroves help stabilize the coastline, preserve sediments, and act as shelters, feeding ground and food sources to support mudflat and associated species. They have a significant ecological function in the coastal and marine ecosystem (AFCD 2005).

Locally rare seagrass species can be found at San Tau, Yam O and Tai Ho Wan (Fong 1998; Xing et al. 2000; AFCD 2005; Arup 2009). Halophila ovalis and Zostera japonica are usually found co-inhabiting and are often located along the seaward margins of mangroves (AFCD 2003; AFCD 2005).

The seagrass beds and nearby mangroves at San Tau (SSSI 58) are one of only four sites where the seagrass Z. japonica, and one of only five sites where the seagrass H. ovalis are recorded in Hong Kong (Arup 2009; AFCD 2011b). Both species are rare in Hong Kong and are listed as of Local Concern status in China (AFCD 2003). Their existence is threatened by water quality degradation due to coastal development. In particular they are potentially threatened by the proposed reclamation near Tung Chung estuary (PWSC 2011), which would destroy the seagrass beds, affect the hydrology of the area, and increase currents and erosion.

3.1.3 Horseshoe crabs Horseshoe crabs are considered of conservation importance in Hong Kong. Three species have been recorded in HKSAR waters, Tachypleus tridentatus, Tachypleus gigas, and Carcinoscorpius rotundicauda (Chiu and Morton 1999). However due to over-exploitation and habitat degradation, the population has shown a rapid decline in only a few decades (Huang 1997).

Among the seventeen recorded sites for juvenile horseshoe crab in Hong Kong, eight sites can be found on Lantau. It is believed that Lantau provides an important breeding ground for two particular horseshoe crab species T. tridentatus and C. rotundicauda. Nursery and breeding sites for T. tridentatus are found at Shui Hau Wan, San Tau, Sham Wat, Yi O, Hau Hok Wan, and Tung Chung bay, whilst C. rotundicauda is found at San Tau, Tai Ho Wan, Pak Mong, Yi O, Hau Hok Wan and Tung Chung bay (Shin et al. 2009; Arup 2009). Lantau population numbers are, however, in decline reflecting the increasing development and pollution pressure on habitats, and possible over-harvesting.

3.1.4 Fish nursery sites Coastal areas, particularly shallow mudflats and mangrove soft-shore, are important fish nursery and breeding grounds (Nip and Wong 2010). Even sites that are not important for supporting the young of economic species may be important in the reproduction of key species in the marine food web which are vital to the survival of economic species. Where large areas of

natural coastline have been lost due to reclamation (Lantau has already lost some 25% of its original natural coastline), the remaining natural coasts take on an even greater importance.

The entire southern part of Lantau’s coastline is regarded as an important spawning and nursery ground for commercial fisheries resources. A total of seven fry species and four crustacean species have been identified south of Cheung Chau, including Reeve’s moray Gymnothorax reevesi, Japanese flathead Inegocia japonica, Caranx kalla, Bar-tailed flathead Platycephalus indicus, Blackhead seabream Mylio macrocephalus, Slate-cod croaker Nibea diacanthus, Boulenger’s croaker Johnius belengerii, Portunus pelagicus, Dictyosquilla foveolata, Squilla fry and Oratosquilla sp. (ERM 1998, Shao 2009).

The north eastern waters of Lantau around the Brothers, Sha Chau and Lung Kwu Chau Marine Park support three commercial fishery resources, Nuchequula mannusella, Sea bass Lateolabrax japonicus, and Spotted sardine Konosirus punctatus (ERM 1998).

Two species of pipefish, Syngnathoides biaculeatus, and Syngnathus schlegeli have been found in four locations on North Lantau, including Yam O, Tung Chung bay, Hau Hok Wan and Sha Lo Wan (Eco-Education and Resources Centre and Green Power 2012). The finding of a sexually mature pipefish, S. biaculeatus, at Yam O is the first record of this species in western waters of HK (Eco-Education and Resources Centre and Green Power 2012). This species is generally found in seagrass beds or algal flats in shallow protected waters (Bartnik et al. 2008) and, due to its poor swimming and migration range, is vulnerable to reclamation. S. schlegeli was found in the Tung Chung Bay area, and this location as well at Hau Hok Wan and Sha Lo Wan are likely important breeding grounds (Eco-education and Resources Centre and Green Power 2012).

3.2 Streams

Lantau is characterized by large, intact and steep mountain streams, unpolluted except in the lowlands. They are also ecologically linked with other habitats which are relatively intact or with comparatively less human settlement, such as secondary woodland, estuarine mudflats and Country Park. The combined ecosystem provides excellent habitat for native freshwater fish species, dragonflies, rare amphibians, reptiles, aquatic fauna, and orchids. The protected Hong Kong Newt Paramesotriton hongkongensis, restricted species South China Cascade Frog Amolops ricketti, the rare Big-headed Terrapin Platysternon megacephalum, Pitcher Plant Nepenthes mirabilis, Somanniathelphusa zanklon (listed as Endangered by IUCN (Esser and Cumberlidge 2008)) and the Three- banded Box Terrapin Cuora trifasciata have also been recorded from mountain streams on Lantau (Thrower 1984; T. Nip, pers. comm.). Among the major stream systems in Lantau, only Tai Ho and Ngong Ping are formally protected, the former as an SSSI and the latter as part of a Country Park.

Besides the stream itself, the riparian zone is important for maintaining ecological integrity. The riparian zone can remove pollutants from runoff both biologically and physically, and insects, fruit and tree litter from this zone are important food sources for many organisms in the stream. Shading provided by riparian vegetation can regulate stream water temperature, maintaining a stable stream environment (Dudgeon and Corlett 2004).

Specific streams of particular interest are discussed below:

3.2.1 Tai Ho stream This stream is the richest in freshwater species of any in Hong Kong, with a total of 46 species recorded (Chong and Dudgeon 1992), including rare and restricted species. In addition, Brown Fish Owl Ketupa zeylonensis has been recorded by the HKBWS.

Tai Ho is of the well-known site in Hong Kong or Guangdong for the amphidromous Ayu Plecoglossus altivelis (Dudgeon 1993). This species is of high conservation importance globally because its populations are threatened due to over-fishing, pollution and habitat destruction. In 2003, Ayu was

recorded in another stream which drains into Tai Ho Wan and this and other streams at Pak Mong are believed to provide habitats for this species (T. Nip, pers. comm.).

The estuary provides an important corridor for other amphidromous fish species such as sicydiine gobies, a breeding ground for horseshoe crabs (C. rotundicauda) and a nurturing habitat for seagrasses (Halophila beccarii) (Fong 1998; Arup 2009; Nip 2010).

Whilst the Tai Ho stream itself was designated an SSSI in 1999 and listed as an Ecologically Important Stream (EIS) (No. 23) by AFCD based on its ecological function and species diversity (AFCD 2006b), the riparian zone remain unprotected.

3.2.2 Tung Chung stream This stream is the second richest in freshwater species of any in Hong Kong, with a total of 23 species recorded. Taken together with the Tai Ho stream (see 2.2.1), the combined total of 53 different species is half the total Hong Kong freshwater fish fauna (Ashworthet al. 1993).

Rare and uncommon freshwater fish species found along the Tung Chung stream include Beijiang Thick-lipped Barb Acrossocheilus beijiangensis (Dudgeon 1993), Large Snout Goby Awaous melanocephalus, Philippine Neon Goby Stiphodon atropurpureum (Lee et al. 2004; Cheng et al. 2008). An individual Giant Mottled Eel Anguilla marmorata, an Endangered species was recorded during the Tung Chung study by KFBG (Wang 1998; Kadoorie Farm and Botanic Garden 2013).

The Tung Chung stream and its riparian zone provides nursery and breeding grounds for various frog species including the Endangered and endemic Romer’s Tree Frog Liuixalus romeri, the South China Cascade Frog Amolops ricketti, the Near Threatened Hong Kong Newt Paramesotriton hongkongensis, and the Endangered Short-legged Toad Xenophrys brachykolos (Lau and Ermi 2004; Lau and Chan 2004).

Flora found along the stream include several species of conservation importance such as the Pitcher Plant Nepenthes mirabilis (Rare and Precious), Spiranthes hongkongensis (Vulnerable, Infrequent and Restricted), and Goodyera procera, (AFCD 2003; Barretto, Crib and Gale 2011). A small population of Ligustrum punctifolium (Rare and Precious) was found in the Tung Chung estuary (Gale and Ng, pers. comm.).

Thick-lipped Barb (top left), South China Cascade Frog (top right), Romer’s Tree Frog (middle left), Spiranthes hongkongensis (middle right) and Chinese Bullfrog are present in Tung Chung Stream

The Tung Chung stream, despite some earlier interference, remains a large and relatively natural stream, is of very high conservation value and is listed as an Ecologically Important Stream (No. 27) by AFCD. However of all major streams on Lantau, it remains completely unprotected, and is currently under massive threat from new town development.

3.2.3 Keung Shan stream area The stream system at Keung Shan is noted for its dragonfly species. The type specimen of the Yellow-spotted Shadowdamsel Sinosticta ogatai was collected here. This species is uncommon and found in only a few localities in Hong Kong (Tam et al. 2011). Tiger Hawker Polycanthagyna erythromelas, a species of Local Concern (Fellowes et al. 2002), has been recorded here (K. Wilson, pers. comm.). Common Awl Hasora badra was found in the riparian zone in 2011 (P. Yip, pers. record.), a species considered Very Rare by AFCD (2011c).

Streams in this catchment have been found to have an introduced turtle species Red-eared Slider Trachemys scripta, possibly a result of religious release activities.

Following illegal columbarium activity, the Keung Shan area is now covered by a Development Permission Area (DPA) plan (DPA/I-LWKS/2).

3.2.4 Ngong Ping stream This is a seasonal stream which supports the Endangered and endemic amphibian species – Romer’s Tree Frog Liuixalus romeri. The stream draining the area west of Ngong Ping into the Shek Pik reservoir is a possible breeding site for the Grey Wagtail Motacilla cinerea (Melville 1995), far south of known breeding sites in China.

The riparian vegetation along the stream provides ideal and undisturbed habitat for several protected orchid species – Bulbophyllum ambrosia, Geodorum densiflorum, Pholidota chinensis and Coelogyne fimbriata.

The stream section by the cable car terminus has been channelized and heavily modified, and preservation of the remainder, particularly a section of the Ecologically Important Stream (No. 15) to the southeast of Po Lin Monastery, is highly desirable.

3.2.5 Sunset Peak streams The streams and associated semi-mature woodland on Sunset Peak provide an important habitat for odonate species and migratory birds.

Odonate species found along the southern stream include Yellow-spotted Shadowdamsel Sinostica ogatai, Short-winged Shadowdamsel Protosticta beaumonti, Blue-tailed Shadowdamsel Drepanosticta hongkongensis, Guangdong Hooktail Melligomphus guangdongensis (G. Reels, pers. comm.). The Short-winged Shadowdamsel is considered of Global Concern (Fellowes et al. 2002) and as Uncommon by Tam et al. (2011).

3.2.6 Sham Wat stream The streams and associated semi-mature woodland on Sunset Peak provide an important habitat for odonate species and migratory birds.

3.3 Freshwater and brackish wetlands

Most freshwater and brackish wetlands on Lantau are active or abandoned agricultural fields or fishponds. These semi-natural wetlands are very useful to a variety of plants, birds and amphibians, especially when they are part of a mosaic with streams, fung shui woods or secondary woodland. Such habitat mosaics constitute hotspots of bird breeding diversity on Lantau (M. Chalmers, pers. comm.). Important examples of such wetlands are found at Tai Ho, Pak Mong, San Tau and Sha Lo Wan on North Lantau (Blandford 1993), and also at Tai O, Pui O, Mui Wo, Yi O and Shui Hau on South Lantau (Dudgeon and Chan 1996). Former habitat mosaics at Tung Chung were previously excellent for wildlife prior to their relatively recent destruction by legal and illegal development.

Specific freshwater and brackish wetland habitats of conservation interest are described hereafter.

3.3.1 Tai O Wetland areas at Tai O comprise tidal mudflats, mangrove, fishponds and brackish marsh. These wetlands support many waterbirds and other avifauna and are probably the best remaining site of their type on Lantau for birds (P. Hopkin, pers. comm.).

Tai O is an important site for migratory waterbirds, and the wetlands, with their surrounding open areas and agricultural fields, are one of the most important breeding and foraging grounds on Lantau in terms of bird species diversity. Once the site of Lantau’s only egretry, the Tai O nesting site appears to be abandoned (Anon 2007; Anon 2008), but were the site, together with the adjacent wooded hillside and the nearby abandoned fishponds/saltpans, to be conserved, it could facilitate the revival of the colony (Kwok and Dalmer 2002).

Other species to be found here include the Four-spot Midget Mortonagrion hirosei which was was first recorded on Lantau in 2009 (Stanton and Allcock 2011). This Near Threatened species finds suitable habitat in marsh and wetland of the former abandoned salt pans, where tidal inundations provide a suitable brackish habitat mosaic (Wilson and Reels 2011).

Although part of the wetlands have (2011) been protected by a Development Permission Area (DPA) plan, they remain at high risk from small house development, illegal dumping and eco- vandalism.

3.3.2 Mui Wo The wetlands of the Mui Wo valley, particularly Luk Tei Tong, comprise inactive/ abandoned fishponds and freshwater and brackish marshes. The Mui Wo wetlands collectively provide the highest diversity of any bird breeding site on Lantau (P. Hopkin, pers. comm.). Forty breeding bird species have been recorded in each of two adjacent one sq.km block, and a total of 54 breeding species in the larger five sq.km. block that covers this area (M. Chalmers, pers. comm.).

The Mui Wo wetlands are also part of a mosaic of habitats that includes active and abandoned agricultural fields, fung shui woods, natural secondary woodland (Nam Shan, Lung Mei Hang and Butterfly Hill) and closed- canopy shrubland. As such they represent good habitat for a variety of wildlife groups. The area embracing Tai Tei Tong and Pak Ngan Heung is a very good example of such a mosaic of habitats, and it harbors a diversity of birds, amphibians (including the Endangered Romer’s Tree Frog Liuixalus romeri, the Class II protected species Chinese Bullfrog Hoplobatrachus rugulosus, and reptiles of Potential Regional Concern such as the Chinese Cobra Naja atra), and dragonflies and damselflies (P. Hopkin, pers. comm.; Fellowes et al. 2002; Ministry of Environmental Protection of the People’s Republic of China 2002; Maunsell 2005).

The wetland and its associated habitat provide nectar and food plants for more than 80 different butterfly species (Chan et al. 2012). Several rare and very rare species, including Common Cerulean Jamides celeno, Metallic Cerulean Jamides alecto, Rounded Six Line Blue Nacaduba berenice, and Yellow Pansy Junonia hierta, have been recorded (Pun and Yeung 2010; Chan et al. 2012).

Mui Wo is also an important site for bats. Lantau as a whole has 70% of all Hong Kong bat species, including locally rare and protected species such as Wrinkle-lipped Free-tailed Bat Chaerephon plicata and Whiskered Myotis Myotis muricola (AFCD 2006a; Shek 2006). A number of species are found in and around Mui Wo, inhabiting and foraging above the wetlands and woodlands, and utilizing natural and man-made caves and tunnels. These include Common Bent-wing Bat Miniopterus schreibersii, Intermediate Horseshoe Bat Rhinolophus affinis, Lesser Bent-wing Bat Miniopterus pusillus, Horsfields Bat Myotis horsfieldii, Chinese Myotis Myotis chinensis, Himalayan Leaf-nosed Bat Hipposideros armiger, Rickett’s Big-footed Bat Myotis ricketti, and the rare Fringed Long- footed Myotis Myotis fimbriatus (Ades 1999; Shek 2006). Bats are particularly sensitive mammals and whole populations can become locally extinct if roosting or foraging areas are destroyed (G. Ades, pers. comm.).

Threats to Mui Wo include infrastructure development, the loss of habitat areas through the cessation of fishpond culture and the careless destruction of habitat.

Wrinkle-lipped free-tailed bat

3.3.3 Pui O There is an extensive wetland at Pui O located between the coastline and the South Lantau Rd. Several parts of the marsh are permanently flooded and contain decaying organic matter which nurtures a high diversity of macroinvertebrates, some 39 species having been recorded (Dudgeon and Chan 1996). The richness of the macroinvertebrate community is partly responsible for the fact that more than 180 resident and visiting avifauna species have been recorded foraging within the marsh (HKBWS 2012). Several rare species including Chinese Thrush Turdus mupinensis, Rustic Bunting Emberiza rustica, Pheasant-tailed Jacana Hydrophasianus chirurgus, Eurasian Hoopoe Upupa epops, Brown Fish Owl Ketupa zeylonensis, and a Smew Mergellus albellus have been recorded at and around the marsh. The mixture of topographical and ecological features of Pui O makes the freshwater marsh and adjoining habitats one of the most important sites for visitor and resident water birds on Lantau.

Eurasian Hoope (top left), Brown Fish Owl (top right), Kentish Plover (middle left), Pacific Reef Egret (middle right), Collared Scops Owl (bottom left) and Ruddy-breasted Crake (bottom right) were recorded in Pui O area.

The marsh also nurtures a resident population of Water Buffalo Bubalus bubalus, which graze on the emergent vegetation of the marsh (Dudgeon and Chan 1996). Their actions maintain the pool areas of the marsh and help preserve its ecological functions.

Three-striped Grass Frog Hylarana macrodactyla and the Chinese Bullfrog Hoplobatrachus rugulosus find the freshwater marsh area an ideal foraging and breeding ground. More than 90 species of butterflies can be found including two Birdwing species – Golden Birdwing Troides aeacus and Common Birdwing Troides helena (Chan et al. 2012), both of which are of conservation significance.

Whilst the ecological value of the Pui O marsh is beyond dispute, the area remains unprotected by effective statutory controls and has been and continues to be ecologically degraded by land filling and various informal land uses.

3.3.4 Shui Hau The abandoned paddy fields at Shui Hau comprise freshwater/brackish wetlands of high plant diversity including Eleocharis sp. and some rare Fimbristylis sp. (S.C. Ng, pers. comm.). The herds of feral cattle which graze this area are thought to be an important factor in maintaining plant diversity (S.C. Ng, pers. comm.). Adenostemma lavenia provides an important nectar source for Danaine butterflies like Common Tiger Danaus genutia, Blue- spotted Crow Euploea midamus and Common Indian Crow Euploea core during the migratory season.

Romer’s Tree Frog Liuixalus romeri has been recorded at Shui Hau (and nearby Cheung Sha and Tong Fuk) (M. Lau, pers. comm.). The headlands around Shui Hau are thought to be breeding grounds for the White- bellied Sea Eagle Haliaeetus leucogaster (P. Harris, pers. comm.).

3.3.5 Yi O There are extensive wetlands at Yi O the ecological value of which has yet to be determined. Romer’s Tree Frog Liuixalus romeri was found here (Lau 1998). A Development Permission Area (DPA) plan (DPA/I-YO/1) has been issued. The old village area has been long abandoned and the whole valley is surrounded by Country Park, but notwithstanding this, the area has now (2014) been extensively cleared for probable development.

3.4 Forests

The natural intact forest and closed-canopy shrubland are of moderate to high ecological value and important for many reasons. Forest and to a lesser extent shrubland harbors rare flora and fauna from tiny orchids, birds and butterflies to large mammals. They are slow to mature, and hence slow to recover once destroyed. They are also at high risk from fire, which sweeps the Lantau hills on a regular basis and which would increase with an increase of human activities in the future.

Overall, the forests on Lantau’s north face are larger, more species-diverse and generally better in quality than those on the southern slope. This is most likely due to a combination of cooler, wetter conditions and less exposure to fire.

The following subsections discuss forest sites of particular importance for habitat composition, rare plant and animal species.

3.4.1 Lantau Peak/ Ngong Ping The natural forest area at North Lantau Peak and Ngong Ping is of significant conservation value. Part of this forest is encompassed by the Lantau Peak SSSI, No. 33. It harbors rare and protected tree species, includes Exbucklandia tonkinensis, Manglietia fordiana and Illicium angustisepalum (Planning Department 1995; Zhuang and Corlett 1996). Other rare plant species found here include Spiraea chinensis and Cyclobalanopsis litseoides and Dendrobium acinaciforme (Xing, Corlett and Chau 2002). The following plant species were first identified in Hong Kong at Lantau Peak, Olea tsoongii, Litsea acutivena, and Sageretia lucida (Xing, Corlett and Chau 1997). In addition, ant species Tetraponera binghami (Forel 1902) recorded at Tei Tong Tsai may be considered of Local Concern as the woodland habitat at Lantau Peak probably supports more than 10% of the Hong Kong population of this species (J. Fellowes, pers. comm.).

Ngong Ping woodland supports a wide diversity of fauna including butterflies and mammals. A total of 101 butterfly species have been recorded, including several rare and uncommon species such as Tamil Grass Dart Taractrocera ceramas, Striped Bush Hopper Ampittia virgata and Large

Three-ring Ypthima motschulskyi (Pun and Yeung 2010; Chan et al. 2012). Aristolochia fordiana (a host plant of the Golden Birdwing Troides aeacus) can be found in the lower section of the trail near Shek Mun Kap and two Birdwing species, Common Birdwing Troides helena and Golden Birdwing Troides aeacus, were recorded at the edge of the woodland.

A Ryukyu Mouse Mus caroli was recorded near the grassland during the biodiversity survey (M. Lau, pers. comm.). The distribution of this small rodent species is restricted to several localities in Hong Kong according to Shek (2006).

Lantau Peak has significant areas of mature hill and montane forest of high conservation value. The area of Kau Nga Ling consists of montane tall shrubland on a steep hillside and has high plant diversity, including Rhododendron simiarum, Osmanthus marginatus. Scarce and restricted orchid species recorded from Lantau Peak include Calanthe triplicate, which is considered as Near- Threatened in China, and Endangered, Scarce and Restricted in Hong Kong (Barretto et al. 2011; S. Gale, pers. comm.). Although this area is currently within the Country Park boundary, regular monitoring is needed in order to prevent illegal collection of these valuable species.

The forests and seasonal streams at Ngong Ping are home to the Hong Kong endemic and protected amphibian species Romer’s Tree Frog Liuixalus romeri (M. Lau, pers. comm.). Rare snakes recorded at Ngong Ping include the Red Mountain Racer Elaphe porphyracea, Mountain Wolf Snake Lycodon ruhstrati, Mountain Pit Viper Trimeresurus monticola and Striped Stream Snake Opisthotropis kuatunensis (M. Lau, pers. comm.). The Ngong Ping woods are an important wintering site for passerine birds including thrushes and warblers (P. Hopkin, pers. comm.). The North face of Lantau Peak toward Tung Chung harbors a large population of the Birdwing Butterfly Troides helena (K. Wilson, pers. comm.), the only butterfly genus protected by law in Hong Kong.

At Shek Pik several bat species like Least Horseshoe Bat Rhinolophus pusillus, Chinese Myotis Myotis chinensis and Rickett’s Big-footed Bat Myotis ricketti were recorded (Ades 1999; Shek 2006).

Shek Pik is one of the butterfly aggregation sites in Southwest Lantau. In 2003, 2004 and 2006, an average of 4,000 Danaine butterflies was recorded by Yiu (2009). Although population size seems to fluctuate in this area, this could be due to the lack of long term monitoring (Yuen 2011). A Tokay Gecko Gekko gecko was recorded at Shek Pik by James Hui; this species faces the threat of over-harvesting for use in Chinese medicine and is

considered a Class II protected species by Ministry of Environmental Protection of the People’s Republic of China (2002). South China Cascade Frog Amolops ricketti is believed to occur in a stream near Shek Pik Reservoir according to Jiang and Xie (2003) (Lau 2005). This species is locally restricted to Lantau Island only (Chan et al. 2005).

3.4.2 Sunset Peak The extensive forests on and to the north of Sunset Peak are partly encompassed by the Sunset Peak SSSI. This is one of the largest areas of natural montane forest remaining in Hong Kong (Planning Department 1995). Blandford (1993) considers these woods to be probably the most important on North Lantau. It harbors some of the most extensive and ecologically important mid elevation secondary hill forest and montane wood anywhere in Hong Kong (Gale, pers. comm.). Plant species of note recorded here include Amentotaxus argotaenia, Manglietia fordiana, Meliosma squamulata, Exbucklandia tonkinensis and Fraxinus griffithii (Planning Department 1995). Other rare species recorded in these forests include Paris polyphylla, Asarum hongkongense, Michelia maudiae, Tetrathyrium subcordatum, Mahonia oiwakensis, Ilex dasyphylla, Corylopsis multiflora, Neolitsea kwangsiensis, Laurocerasus zippeliana, Illicium angustisepalum and Alpinia japonica (Xing et al. 1997; Xinget al. 2000). Outside the Country Park area the globally rare tree species Tetrathyrium subcordatum has been recorded (S.C. Ng, pers. comm.). Among the recorded species Amentotaxus argotaenia and Tetrathyrium subcordatum are listed as Vulnerable and Critically Endangered in China and recorded in China Plant Red Data Book and Illustrations of Rare and Endangered plant in Guangdong Province. Asarum hongkongense, Mahonia oiwakensis, Illicium angustisepalum, Neolitsea kwangsiensis and Paris polyphylla are listed as Critically Endangered, Endangered and Vulnerable in China respectively (AFCD 2003). Manglietia fordiana and Meliosma squamulata are considered as rare by Zhuang and Corlett (1996).

right) were recorded in Sunset Peak © James Hui

Within the Sunset Peak area, the forests above Wong Lung Hang may be the most important on all of Lantau in conservation terms. A survey carried out here for the North Lantau Development study recorded a number of tree species of restricted distribution, including Exbucklandia tonkinensis, Lithocarpus corneus, Meliosma squamulata and Sloanea sinensis.

In the montane wood of Sunset Peak, the streams draining into Wong Lung Hang provide crucially important habitat for a diverse flora of warm- to cool- growing and moisture-loving orchids. Several rare, threatened and restricted species have been recorded. These include Pholidota cantonensis, Calanthe masuca, Calanthe graciliflora (S. Gale, pers. comm.).

A high variety of orchid species have been found in the Sunset Peak, including Anoectochilus roxburghii, Bulbophyllum stenobulbon, Calanthe speciosa, Conchidium pusillum, Disperis lantauensis, Disperis neilgherrensis, Liparis bootanensis, Liparis gigantean, Platanthera minor, Paphiopedilum purpuratum and Cheirostylis jamesleungii (L. Chau, G. Siu and S. Gale, pers. comm.). Despite the fact that all 126 species of native Hong Kong orchids are protected by the Forestry Ordinance, the real threat arises from continuing illegal collection and deforestation (Barretto et al. 2011). The existing populations of rare and restricted orchids could easily be wiped out by only a few irresponsible collectors (L. Chau and G. Siu, pers. comm.).

An uncommon damselfly species Hong Kong Flatwing Rhipidolestes janetae was recorded in woodland at about 500m on the north side of Sunset Peak (G. Reels, pers. comm.). Besides Lantau, it is only recorded in Shing Mun Country Park and Yuen Tun Ha (Tam et al. 2011). Ant species Pheidole sp. 17 was found in Sunset peak woodland in 1992 including one/some possibly regarded as of Global Concern2 species (J. Fellowes, pers. comm.).

Three ant species (Monomorium (cf. bimaculatum) (WM Wheeler, 1928) sp. 9 (Global Concern2), Pheidole sp. 17 (Global Concern2), and Pyramica mitis (Brown, 2000) sp. 3 (Local Concern3)) were found on the Northern side of Sunset Peak. Ponera (cf. sinensis) WM Wheeler, 1928/ guangxiensis Zhou) sp. 1 (Global Concern2) was recorded to the South of Sunset Peak.

Sunset Peak is an important site for many stream-dwelling amphibian species including Hong Kong Newt Paramesotriton hongkongensis and Short-legged Toad Xenophrys brachykolos (M. Lau, pers. comm.). Hong Kong Newt and

2The species possible that a given site supports 1% of its global population; 3 The species possible that a given site supports 10% of local population.

Short- legged Toad are listed as Near Threatened and Endangered species by IUCN Red List of Threatened Species (Lau et al. 2004; Lau and Chan 2004). In addition, Short- legged Toad is considered as “possibly” endemic to Hong Kong (Chan et al. 2005b).

3.4.3 Upper Tung Chung Valley The upper Tung Chung Valley is an important habitat for birds, including wintering thrushes and warblers (P. Hopkin, pers. comm.). Eurasian Eagle Owl Bubo bubo, a species highly sensitive to disturbance around their nesting sites, breed here (K. Wilson, pers. comm.). A scarce passage migrant Grey Nightjar Caprimulgus indicus has been recorded in the upper valley (Carey et al. 2001; Mouchel 2002). The largest population of the reptile Tokay Gecko Gekko gecko occurs in the cliffs and boulder crevices in upper Tung Chung Valley (M. Lau, pers. comm.).

The woods in the upper Tung Chung Valley are reported to be some of the best on Lantau for rare plants and fauna species. According to the ecological survey between 2001 and 2002, a number of dragonfly, damselfly and butterfly species of conservation interest, including Small Clubtail Stylogomphus chunliuae, Guangdong Hooktail Melligomphus guangdongensis, Hong Kong Clubtail Leptogomphus hongkongensis, Short- winged Shadowdamsel Protosticta beaumonti, Yellow- spotted Shadowdamsel Sinosticta ogatai, Commander Moduza procris and Birdwing Butterfly Troides sp., were recorded along the upper Tung Chung Valley (Mouchel 2002). The ant species Pyramica mitis (Brown 2000) sp. 3, considered as Local Concern3, was found in the secondary woodland in Tung Chung (J. Fellowes, pers. comm.). © James Hui

Golden Birdwing in the Tung Chung Valley

3 The species possible that a given site supports 10% of its local population.

3.4.4 Pok To Yan and Por Kai Shan The forests of Pok To Yan and Por Kai Shan on North Lantau are encompassed by SSSI No. 57. These sites harbor a montane shrub-forest of significant ecological value (Blandford 1993). The two sites together boast over 200 species of native plants with more than 13 protected plant species recorded here, including many orchids and a number of rare species such as Ailanthus fordii, Enkianthus quinqueflorus, Magnolia championi, Magnoli fistulosa, Nepenthes mirabilis, Pholidota chinensis and Pholidota purpuratum (Planning Department 1995). The shrubland at Pok To Yan contains the Globally Vulnerable Rhododendron hongkongensis, known only from Hong Kong and Shankou (near Guangzhou) (S.C. Ng, pers. comm). The plant species Asarum hongkongense, known only from Lantau, is found at Por Kai Shan and at Sunset Peak. Por Kai Shan, being lower in elevation and closer to the new North Lantau developments, is at greater risk from hillfire than are the peak forests.

The exceptionally high flora diversity and the presence of rare species in the forests between Tai Ho Wan and Tung Chung (including the above- mentioned SSSI) indicate that some of these areas have never been completely cleared. In addition to their rich flora, they are likely to be important habitats for vertebrates.

3.4.5 San Tau Valley Woods The San Tau valley woods harbor well-developed forests of high diversity. The hillside between Sha Lo Wan and San Tau, which includes Hau Hok Wan, contains secondary shrubland and forest. The low altitude part is an important site for the plant Scleria lithosperma, a rare Cyperaceae species. There are also colonies of Nepenthes mirabilis, a protected species, on the hillside (S.C. Ng, pers. comm.). Some of this area lies outside the Country Park boundary and is thus unprotected.

The lower woodland near San Tau village provides good shelter for a variety of butterflies. According to Green Power‘s Hong Kong butterfly inventory, more than 90 butterfly species were recorded between 2010 and 2011, which included the very rare Malayan Megisba malaya (Green Power 2013). There has been an increasing trend of butterfly species diversity according to survey results since 2008 (Green Power 2013). However, this kind of lowland wood habitats is susceptible to human disturbance.

3.4.6 Mui Wo Butterfly Hill at Mui Wo is a small forest that harbors a population of the rare dragonfly Gynacantha sp. (G. Reels, pers. comm.). The woodlands at Nam Shan near the Country Park boundary harbor a mammal species Red Muntjac Muntiacus muntjak of Potential Regional Concern (Fellowes et al. 2002) and

the Eurasian Eagle-Owl Bubo bubo. The woodlands around Mui Wo are also important foraging sites for a number of uncommon and rare bat species (see Section 2.3.2)

3.4.7 Man Cheung Po Ravine Forest This relatively small site, covered by SSSI No. 32 and contained within the Country Park on western Lantau, harbors a diversity of protected orchids such as Ludisia discolor and Acampe rigida, and rare plant species. Ludisia discolor is listed as Endangered in China. Due to its location within the Country Park, this site is relatively well protected.

3.4.8 Shui Hau Woodland Shui Hau is one of the pre-wintering aggregation sites for Danaine butterflies, which was first reported in 2003. Around 10,000 Danaine butterflies were recorded in December 2004 (Yiu 2009). The aggregation site was located in a small piece of woodland along a disturbed stream, dominated by Common Tiger Danaus genutia (around 60%), a small number of Blue Spotted Crow Euploea midamus and Common Indian Crow Euploea core (Yuen 2011). Danaine butterflies were also found gathering on the abandoned wetland near

the aggregation site during the daytime.

Danaid butterfly in Shui Hau Woodland

The woodland associated with natural stream and seasonal marsh form a habitat mosaic for wide variety of butterfly species. A total of 162 butterfly species was recorded by Chan et al. (2012); several very rare butterflies such as Psyche Leptosia nina, Chocolate Albatross Appias lyncida and Common Albatross Appias albina can be found along the Lantau Trail (Stage 9) (AFCD 2011c; Chan et al. 2012).

During a site visit in November 2011, a Red Muntjac Muntiacus muntjak was recorded near Lantau Trail (Stage 9). This species is listed as of Potential Regional Concern by Fellowes et al. (2002), though the species is widespread in Hong Kong (Shek 2006)

3.4.9 Fan Lau Woodland Fan Lau headland, one of the first Danaine butterfly pre-wintering sites recorded, was discovered in 1998 by the Hong Kong Lepidopterists’ Society (Yiu 2002; Yiu 2009). The aggregation site is located in the southwestern extremity of Hong Kong and lies within the natural woodland and fung shui woodland behind a near-abandoned village. Species composition is dominated by Common Tiger Danaus genutia, while others were mainly Common Indian Crow Euploea core and Blue Spotted Crow Euploea midamus (Yiu 2009). According to Yuen (2011), this population of Blue Spotted Crow is genetically different from the resident population at different sampling sites in Hong Kong. This indicates that the migrants at Fan Lau may not originate in Hong Kong. The site is likely to be a valuable refuge for Danaine butterflies from the cold during the migration period. Although no large scale butterfly aggregation was found during the visit in late October 2012, there is still a high possibility of Danaine butterflies again using this pre- wintering site (vide Mingpao 2012).

3.4.10 Chi Ma Wan Peninsula forests A stable population of Cymbidium ensifolium was found in the secondary forests of Chi Ma Wan Peninsula. Although this species is regarded as widespread, it has suffered a decline elsewhere in Hong Kong due to illegal collection (Barretto et al. 2011; S. Gale, pers. comm.).

3.4.11 Keung Shan forests The mature secondary forests of Keung Shan are an important habitat for the unusual, primitive orchid Neuwiedia singapureana (S. Gale, pers. comm.). It is considered Vulnerable in China and Endangered in Hong Kong (Barretto et al. 2011; S. Gale, pers. comm.). Rare and protected plant species such Nepenthes mirabilis and Camellia euryoides have also been recorded within Keung Shan woodland area (S. Gale and F.W. Xing, pers. comm.).

3.4.12 Nei Lak Shan Woodland Steady populations of the primitive orchid Neuwiedia singapureana are known from the mature secondary woodland of Nei Lak Shan (S. Gale, pers. comm.). This species is restricted in several localities and considered as Endangered in Hong Kong, though it is widespread throughout South China and Southeast Asia (Barretto et al. 2011).

A total of 73 butterflies were found along the woodland associated habitats – shrubland and grassland by Chan et al. (2012). A very rare Striped Bush Hopper Ampittia virgata was recorded along the track. This species has a regular record in Nei Lak Shan and is believed to be restricted on Lantau only (Lo 2005; AFCD 2011c; Chan et al. 2012).

3.4.13 Shek Mun Shan Woodland Two Malayan Night Herons Gorsachius melanolophus were recorded by remote-sensing camera at Lo Kei Wan in 2003; these were the first record of this species in Hong Kong (Carey and Lockey 2009). While based on the number of records annually, Malayan Night Herons is rare in Hong Kong, as a species that is largely nocturnal and crepuscular, it is considered as under- recorded in some circumstance. (Viney et al. 2005; Carey and Lockey 2009).

3.4.14 Fung Shui Woodlands Lantau contains a number of important fung shui woodlands behind villages, which are important for their age and species diversity. Nine fung shui woodlands were identified by Chu (1998), including Luk Tei Tong, Mok Ka, Pak Ngan Heung, San Tau, Sha Lo Wan, Shek Mun Kap, Sheung Ling Pei, Shui Hau and Tong Fuk. This habitat type supports a wide range of birds, bats and insects.

Tong Fuk fung shui wood is one of the most important fung shui woodlands on Lantau and nutures the restricted species Fraxinus griffithii, which is found only at four other sites, all on Lantau (Chu 1998). The rare Malaisia scandens was also recorded in Tong Fuk; this species is mainly distributed on Lantau and its associated islands (Chu 1998; AFCD 2007). The ant species of Possible Local Concern3 Pachycondyla (cf. sharpi) (Forel, 1901) sp. 12 was recorded at Tong Fuk woodland (J. Fellowes, pers. comm.).

The Shui Hau fung shui woodland is another hot spot for reptile species (Yip 2000). Three ant species, Camponotus (nr. humerus) (Wang Wu, 1994), Strumigenys minutula (Terayama Kubota) and Pristomyrmex brevispinosus (Emery, 1887) were recorded at Pak Ngan Heung fung shui woodland and 1 ant species- Strumigenys minutula (Terayama Kubota) at Luk Tei Tong fung shui woodland are of conservation concern (J. Fellowes, pers. comm.). Camponotus (nr. humerus) (Wang Wu, 1994) sp. 31 and Strumigenys minutula (Terayama Kubota) may be of Global Concern2 and Pristomyrmex brevispinosus (Emery, 1887) may be of Local Concern3 (J. Fellowes, pers. comm.). The fung shui woodlands behind Tung Chung fort and Luk Tei Tong village are also considered as valuable habitats. Though most fung shui woodlands are of pretty high ecological value, most of these areas fall outside the Country Park boundary, lack statutory planning control and face possible threats arising from changes in the traditional values of indigenous villagers. These valuable forests on Lantau are now threatened by rural expansion and illegal destruction (Chu 1998).

2The species possible that a given site supports 1% of its global population; 3The species possible that a given site supports 10% of its local population.

3.5 Other uplands

Well-developed secondary woodland represents another important upland habitat, and examples of sites important for rare plant and animal species are given here. Unfortunately parts of Lantau’s non-wooded uplands have yet to be systematically studied and the records available represent scattered examples only of the wealth of biodiversity. More study is needed.

Uncommon Pteridophytes and Angiosperms species records from other forests on Lantau include Gymnosphaera hancockii at Mok Ka, Malaisia scandens at Tong Fuk, Shui Hau and Fan Kwai Tong near Tai O (Yip 2000; F.W. Xing, pers. comm.).

3.5.1 San Chau Shrubland This site on North Lantau, North Cheung Shan, has been designated as SSSI (No. 61) in May 1999 as it harbors the largest known colony of the rare native rhododendron Rhododendron championae (Planning Department 1995). The population covers a large area from the peak to the seashore, stretching from the wooded Pinus massoniana slopes of Sha Lo Wan southwest to Tai O. The Rhododendron species is restricted to Southern China and a few localities in Hong Kong. All wild rhododendrons are protected by law in Hong Kong. The same hillsides also support the protected and rare tree fern Brainea insignis, (listed as category II under the State Protection), which is found mostly at high altitudes in open places and thickets.

3.5.2 Central Lantau Uplands Grassy uplands in central Lantau, including Sunset Peak, support a distinctive community of breeding birds that includes Upland Pipit Anthus sylvanus, the locally breeding subspecies of Richard’s Pipit Anthus richardi sinensis, Chinese Francolin Francolinus pintadeanus, Lesser Coucal Centropus bengalensis, Russet Bush Warbler Locustella mandelli and Eurasian Eagle Owl Bubo bubo. In addition, Chinese Grassbird Graminicola striatus has been recorded in Sunset Peak, Nei Lak Shan and Lantau Peak. This newly recognized species has been split from the Indian Grassbird (formerly known as the Rufous-rumped Grassbird) Graminicola bengalensis

(Leader et al. 2010; AFCD 2012b). This species is restricted to undisturbed and good quality grassland in Hong Kong, which, due to modification of lowland habitat, means that it is confined to hilly areas in Hong Kong. It remains a very rare species globally (Leader, pers. comm.) and the status is currently classified as Near- Threatened (NT) by BirdLife International (2013). Due to shrubland succession into grassland areas in Hong Kong, it is likely that without active management, Chinese Grassbird will inevitably suffer a significant long- term decline as its habitat slowly disappears from Hong Kong (P. Leader, pers. comm.).

3.6 Offshore islands

Lantau exists in a marine setting with a number of offshore islands. With the exception of Cheung Chau and Peng Chau (long settled and not described herein), these islands have seen little development and consequently are of conservation interest and value. Three, Hei Ling Chau, Shek Kwu Chau, and Sunshine Island, are the only known sites in the world for Bogadek’s Legless Lizard Dibamus bogadeki (Zhao and Adler 1993; AFCD 2012a).

3.6.1 Shek Kwu Chau Shek Kwu Chau is small mountainous island east of Lantau with a drug rehabilitation establishment thereon. Although it is dominated by major exotic and pioneer flora species, plant species of conservation value such as Rhamnus brachypoda can be found (Lazell 2002; Xing et al. 2002). According to Lazell (2002), a total of 24 herpetofauna species are documented on Shek Kwu Chau. Ten of these – Painted Bronze Back Dendrelaphis pictus, Common Rat Snake Ptyas mucosus, Jade Vine Snake Ahaetulla prasina, Burmese Python Python molurus, Copperhead Racer Elaphe radiata, Many-banded Krait Bungarus multicinctus, Chinese Cobra Naja atra, Tree Gecko Hemiphyllodactylus sp., Bogadek’s Legless Lizard Dibamus bogadeki, and Reeves’ Terrapin Chinemys reevesii are considered to be of conservation interest and rare in Hong Kong. The ant species of possible Local Concern Pheidole (cf. hongkongensis) (WM Wheeler 1928) has been recorded on the island (J. Fellowes, pers. comm.). All these finds are noteworthy for an island of Shek Kwu Chau’s size.

In the waters south and southwest of the island, 15 species of coral were found (AECOM 2011), including the uncommon Coscinaraea n sp. (Chan et al. 2005a).

During the survey season by AECOM (2011) in 2009/2010, three active breeding years have been recorded at the southwest of the Shek Kwu Chau. Until now, the island is still an active breeding site since 2006 for White- bellied Sea Eagle Haliaeetus leucogaster.

3.6.2 Soko Islands The Soko Islands are a group of two larger and five very small islands south of Lantau long considered suitable and proposed for marine park status. The coastal waters are important for a number of reasons. They form part of the identified range of the Indo-Pacific Humpback Dolphin Sousa chinensis (hereinafter referred to as the “Chinese White Dolphin”), and the Finless Porpoise Neophocaena phocaenoides. Since 2006, there have been increasing sighting records of the Finless Porpoise (AFCD 2012c). Taken together with the presence of gorgonian coral communities of significance to Hong Kong, there is an urgent need to complete the designation as Marine Park.

3.6.3 Sunshine Island Sunshine Island (Chau Kung To) is a small undeveloped island east of Lantau the coastal and inland ecosystems of which remain mostly intact. Two woodland ant species Technomyrmex (cf. dubius) sp. 3 and Tetramorium tonganum (Mayr, 1870), which may be of Local Concern, were recorded in 1996 (J. Fellowes, pers. comm.). Bogadek’s Legless Lizard Dibamus bogadeki is found here (AFCD 2012a).

3.6.4 Hei Ling Chau Hei Ling Chau is a large island to the east of Lantau. Although housing correctional institutions, there are relatively small scale that leave much of the island relatively intact. A total of 74 bird species were recorded by ERM (2006), including White- bellied Sea Eagle Haliaeetus leucogaster, was recorded on the island. The protected herpetofauna species Three- banded Box Turtle Cuora trifasciata, Burmese Python Python molurus and the uncommon Garnot’s Gecko Hemidactylus garnotii were recorded on the island. The endemic and very rare Bogadek’s Legless Lizard Dibamus bogadeki is also found here (AFCD 2012a).

3.6.5 The Northern islands Sha Chau, Lung Kwu Chau and Pak Chau are three islands situated in the Sha Chau and Lung Kwu Chau Marine Park, west of the airport island, and all have particular conservation value.

Pak Chau (Tree Island) is winter roost site for a common winter visitor the Great Cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo. A nesting colony of Great Egret Ardea alba, Little Egret Egretta garzetta, and Black-crowned Night Heron Nycticorax nycticorax, was discovered within the boundary of the Marine Park in 2011; the colony is believed to originate from two nesting colonies at Tai O and northeast Lantau (C. Wong, pers. comm.). The Sha Chau colony supported the highest number of nests of Little Egrets in the New Territories (69 nests, 21.9% of the total) in 2012 (Anon 2012a; Anon 2012b).

3.7 Offshore marine systems and cetaceans Chinese White Dolphin Sousa chinensis could be found in the Pearl River Estuary, which apparently is holding the largest known population of this species in the world, and Hong Kong sits in the eastern reaches of this population. Within Hong Kong, the Chinese White Dolphin is an iconic cetacean mammal in Hong Kong regional waters, inhabits the western part of the local waters and is most frequently found around northern coast of Lung Kwu Chau and the stretch of waters from Tai O to Fan Lau, which is roughly from western to southern Lantau. Following areas that are found to bear the 2nd highest sighting frequency are waters around The Brothers Island and Soko Islands (Hung 2008).. The establishment of the airport at Chek Lap Kok, has increased marine traffic, while toxic waste from contaminated mud pits have degraded marine ecology and biodiversity in the North Lantau area (Morton 1996). Furthermore, the Hong Kong-Zhuhai- Macao Bridge and its associated facilities and the proposed Third Runway project will probably reduce the usage by Chinese White Dolphin of areas around the proposed construction sites due to habitat loss, hydrographic changes and an anticipated increased anthropogenic disturbance (C. Or and K. Leszek, pers. comm.). It is expected that the Dolphin will move away from the disturbance zones and increase usage of Southwest Lantau or outside Hong Kong (C. Or and K. Leszek, pers. comm.). Within Hong Kong territorial waters, the Southwest Lantau seems to be the most likely refuge that the Dolphin can use.

Finless porpoises Neophocaena phocaenoides have been consistently recorded in the area between Shek Kwu Chau and the Soko Islands since 2007. Sighting

records are mainly clustered along the inshore waters of the south and southwestern side of the island (AFCD 2012c). The marine environment of South Lantau, especially the offshore waters between Shek Kwu Chau and the Soko Islands, is believed to be an important area for finless porpoise in recent years monitoring by AFCD (2012c). The impacts from the proposed third runway, the proposed incinerator on Shek Kwu Chau and several proposed reclamation projects are expected to further expose the Chinese White Dolphin and Finless Porpoises to deleterious impacts. However, at this stage it is hard to predict the rate of decline and it is highly recommended the related Authorities to conduct more study and pro-active research on these flagship marine mammals in Hong Kong before driving them to local extinction. Figure 1 shows the approximate distributions of these two species around Lantau.

4 Summary

4.1 The sections preceding provide a brief description of the ecological attributes of Lantau and its environs. It is encouraging that there are a number of authorities on these aspects; however, there remains much to be researched and documented.

4.2 The presently known distribution of biodiversity resources is graphically shown on Figure 1.

4.3 The need for a comprehensive conservation strategy for Lantau is clear and urgent. This is particularly so when development pressures continue to mount and the typical conservation course adopted is piecemeal, lacking in overall vision and seeks to mitigate rather than avoid. The plight of the Chinese White Dolphin Sousa chinensis is representative of the pressures being faced. Despite being the handover icon of 1997, massive reclamation projects which have occurred and are proposed and the lack of any policy on conservation, are destroying an already fragile population. The fact that The Brothers Islands will only be designated as a marine park after the construction of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge, merely as a mitigation measure, highlights the inadequate in the current marine conservation policy. Marine protected areas should be set up ahead of development to safeguard the ecologically important areas for the dolphins before any further loss of their habitat.

4.4 Whilst much of terrestrial Lantau is included in Country Parks, the coastline, the marine waters, and the offshore islands are largely unprotected. The obvious course is to place the whole of Lantau under formal Outline Zoning Plans, and for the waters off Lantau, particularly those waters housing the highest dolphin densities in Hong Kong, should be prioritized for protection and designated as Marine Parks. The process of preparing these admits full public participation and the outcomes can therefore fairly represent community values.

4.5 The present extent of protected areas is graphically shown on Figure 2.

5 Figures

6 References:

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Personal communications cited:

Dr. Gary Ades, Kadoorie Farm Botanic Garden Corporation: Bat specialist; Mr. Michael Chalmers; Dr. Lawrence Chau; Dr. John Fellowes; Dr. Stephan Gale, Kadoorie Farm Botanic Garden Corporation: Orchid specialist; Mr. Paul Harris; Mr. Peter Hopkin; Dr. Pankaj Kumar, Kadoorie Farm Botanic Garden Corporation; Dr. Michael W. N. Lau, WWF- Hong Kong: Herpetologist and ecologist; Mr. Paul Leader; Dr. Karczmarski Leszek, The University of Hong Kong: Associate Professor; Dr. Ng Sau Chit, Botanist; Mr. Tony H.M. Nip, Kadoorie Farm Botanic Garden Corporation: Senior Ecologist; Mr. Graham Reels, Invertebrate specialist; Ms. Gloria Siu, Orchid specialist; Mr. Keith Wilson, Dragonfly expert; Ms. Carmen K.M. Or, The University of Hong Kong: MPhil student; Mr. Captain L.C. Wong, Hong Kong Bird Watching Society: Egret Research Group; Prof. Xing Fu Wu, Plant taxonomist and Ecologist.

Acknowledgements: The following individuals/organisations kindly donated photos for use in this report: Dr. Gary Ades, Kadoorie Farm Botanic Garden Corporation; Mr. Stephen Chan, Cetacean Ecology Lab, The University of Hong Kong; Mr. Paul Crow, Kadoorie Farm Botanic Garden Corporation; Mr. James C.T. Hui; Dr. Pankaj Kumar, Kadoorie Farm Botanic Garden Corporation; Mr. Pan Lau; Mr. Graham Reels; Green Power; The Hong Kong Bird Watching Society; WWF- Hong Kong.

We would also like to express our gratitude for many individuals and organisations that provided constructive comments, information and suggestions for this report:

Dr. Gary Ades, Kadoorie Farm Botanic Garden Corporation; Dr. Cheng Luk-ki, Green Power; Dr. John Fellowes; Dr. Stephan Gale, Kadoorie Farm Botanic Garden Corporation; Green Power; Kadoorie Farm Botanic Garden Corporation; Mr. Mike Kilburn, The Hong Kong Bird Watching Society; Ms. Samantha Lee, WWF- Hong Kong; Dr. Michael W. N. Lau, WWF- Hong Kong; Mr. Paul Leader;

Dr. Karczmarski Leszek, The University of Hong Kong: Associate Professor; Mr. Henry Lui, Green Power; Mr. Tony H.M. Nip, Kadoorie Farm Botanic Garden Corporation; Ms. Carmen K.M. Or, The University of Hong Kong: PhD student; Mr. Graham Reels; Dr. Karen L.Y. Woo; Mr. Pure Wong; WWF-Hong Kong.

And all friends and buddies who conserving and caring our natural environment.