Tai Po Kau Headland
Conservation Study & S.S.S.I. Proposal
Tai Po Kau Headland
Conservation Study
and S.S.S.I. Proposal
18 July 2006
Proposal Proponents
Mrs. G. Barretto M.B.E., V.M.M. Mr. L. A. Barretto A.R.I.B.A. Mrs. K. A. Barretto B.A. Mr. R. O. Barretto S.C.
Editors
Dr. R. C. Kendrick Ph.D. Mr. R. O. Barretto S.C.
Authors Dr. G. W. J. Ades Ph.D. Mrs. K. A. Barretto B.A. Mr. R.O. Barretto S.C. Dr. R. C. Kendrick Ph.D. Mr. M. Kilburn B.A. Dr. M. W. N. Lau Ph.D. Mr. R. W. Lewthwaite B.A. Dr. Ng S. C. Ph.D.
Tolo Pond Mangrove
Core Headland Area
Pai Mun Shan (Area 40)
Tolo Pond Mangrove
Pai Mun Shan (Area 40)
buffer zone survey route
Figure 3 - Core Headland Area Biodiversity Survey Map
as designated in the Tai Po Outline Zoning Plan Figure 4. Zones in the Tai Po Kau Headland area
Tai Po Kau Headland Conservation Study and SSSI Proposal
July 2006
Contents
PART A – INTRODUCTION 6
1 SUMMARY 6
2 BACKGROUND 10
3 RATIONALE 14
4 OBJECTIVES 25
PART B – TAI PO KAU HEADLAND INFORMATION 26
5 SITE DEFINITION 26
6 PHYSICAL INFORMATION 28
7 BIOLOGICAL INFORMATION 29
8 CULTURAL INFORMATION 43
PART C – EVALUATION 48
9 SITE EVALUATION 48
10 ECOLOGICAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT AND PROTECTION MEASURES 55
11 CONCLUSIONS 61
PART D - ENDNOTES 63
12 REFERENCES 64
13 APPENDICES 67
1 Full Table of Contents
PART A – INTRODUCTION ...... 6
1 SUMMARY...... 6 2 BACKGROUND ...... 10 2.1 HERITAGE FACTORS ...... 10 2.1.1 Early History ...... 10 2.1.2 Early New Territories Architecture...... 10 2.1.3 Heritage Landscape Value ...... 10 2.2 SITE VALUES...... 10 2.3 AMENITY ACCESS ...... 11 2.4 THE TAI PO LANDSCAPE AND RECREATION STUDY FINAL REPORT OF JANUARY 1979 ...... 11 2.4.1 Vegetation Pattern...... 11 2.4.2 Feng Shui Woodland ...... 11 2.4.3 Headland Vegetation Potential...... 11 2.4.4 Landscape Quality...... 11 2.4.5 Recreation Demand...... 12 2.4.6 Conservation Interest...... 12 2.4.7 Hillslope Woodland Policy...... 12 2.4.8 Tai Po Report Conclusion...... 12 2.5 MATURE NATIVE WOODLAND HISTORY ...... 12 2.6 CURRENT STUDIES ...... 13 3 RATIONALE ...... 14 3.1 THE CONSERVATION PROPOSAL...... 14 3.1.1 Existing Zoning...... 14 3.1.2 Problems of Existing Zoning...... 14 3.1.2.1 Adjacent Areas Lost to Development ...... 14 3.1.2.2 Developments In Progress and Planned...... 15 3.2 LAND USE HISTORY AND PLANNING ISSUES...... 15 3.2.1 History of Land Use at and near Tai Po Kau Headland - Planning constraints and parameters...... 15 3.2.2 Summary of Recent relevant Planning History re TPIL12...... 15 3.2.2.1 Land and Planning History ...... 15 3.2.2.2 Developmental Pressures ...... 16 3.2.2.3 TPIL12 Access ...... 16 3.2.2.4 Unauthorised Tree Cutting ...... 16 3.2.2.5 1997 Re-zoning Proposal ...... 16 3.2.2.6 More Unauthorised Tree Damage...... 17 3.2.2.7 1998 Planning Application...... 17 3.2.2.8 Dual Planning Applications ...... 17 3.2.2.9 2001 Planning Application...... 17 3.2.2.10 Conditions to Protect Site Ecology...... 17 3.2.2.11 Insufficiency of Tree Surveys ...... 18 3.3 PROBLEMS DUE TO OVER DEVELOPMENT...... 19 3.4 LANDSCAPE ASSESSMENT - IMPORTANT LANDSCAPE CHARACTER AND LANDSCAPE VALUE...... 21 3.5 COMPENSATION, CONSERVATION AREA AND SSSI AND SPECIAL AREA ...... 21 3.6 CREATE NEW CONSERVATION ZONES TO COMPENSATE FOR LOSS TO DEVELOPMENT ...... 22 3.7 MITIGATION OPPORTUNITY ...... 22 3.8 GOVERNMENT MANPOWER REQUIREMENTS...... 22 3.9 PREVIOUS ZONING CASES...... 23 3.10 PROPOSAL CONFORMITY ...... 23 3.11 CONCLUSIONS...... 23 3.12 RECOMMENDATIONS...... 24
2 4 OBJECTIVES ...... 25 4.1 PROPOSAL OBJECTIVES ...... 25 4.1.1 Objective 1...... 25 4.1.2 Objective 2...... 25 4.1.3 Objective 3...... 25 4.1.4 Objective 4...... 25 4.1.5 Objective 5...... 25
PART B – TAI PO KAU HEADLAND INFORMATION...... 26
5 SITE DEFINITION...... 26 5.1 LOCATION ...... 26 5.2 ZONING...... 26 5.3 ACCESS...... 27 6 PHYSICAL INFORMATION ...... 28 6.1 CLIMATE ...... 28 6.2 HYDROLOGY ...... 28 6.3 GEOLOGY...... 28 6.4 GEOMORPHOLOGY ...... 28 6.5 SOILS ...... 28 7 BIOLOGICAL INFORMATION...... 29 7.1 FLORA ...... 29 7.1.1 Survey methodology...... 29 7.1.2 Baseline Conditions - Habitat/Vegetation...... 29 7.1.2.1 Forest ...... 29 7.1.2.2 Tall Shrubland ...... 30 7.1.2.3 Residential Area...... 30 7.1.2.4 Orchard...... 30 7.1.3 Species of Conservation Concern ...... 30 7.1.4 Summary of Biota (vegetation & flora)...... 31 7.2 FUNGI ...... 31 7.3 FAUNA...... 31 7.3.1 Mammals...... 31 7.3.1.1 Species of Conservation Concern ...... 31 7.3.1.2 Ecological Linkage of Sites...... 31 7.3.1.3 Bats ...... 31 7.3.1.4 Recommendation...... 32 7.3.2 Birds ...... 32 7.3.2.1 Species Richness...... 32 7.3.2.2 Indicator Species...... 32 7.3.2.3 Significance to Raptors ...... 33 7.3.2.4 Systematic survey ...... 33 7.3.2.5 Survey Method ...... 33 7.3.2.6 Survey Results...... 33 7.3.2.7 Breeding records...... 33 7.3.2.8 Summary of bird data...... 33 7.3.2.9 Conclusions...... 34 7.3.2.10 Recommendations ...... 35 7.3.3 Reptilia and Amphibia ...... 35 7.3.3.1 Species of Conservation Concern ...... 35 7.3.3.2 Indicator Species...... 35 7.3.3.3 Habitat Association ...... 35 7.3.3.4 Recommendation...... 36
3 7.3.4 Insecta...... 36 7.3.4.1 Odonata ...... 36 7.3.4.2 Coleoptera ...... 36 7.3.4.3 Hymenoptera ...... 36 7.3.4.4 Lepidoptera ...... 37 7.3.4.5 Diptera ...... 39 7.3.4.6 Homoptera ...... 39 7.3.4.7 Other Invertebrate Orders...... 39 7.3.4.8 Recommendations ...... 39 7.4 SUMMARY OF BIOTA...... 40 8 CULTURAL INFORMATION ...... 43 8.1 ARCHAEOLOGY...... 43 8.1.1 Megalithic Stone Circle...... 43 8.1.2 Tai Po Kau...... 43 8.1.3 Grave Sites and Feng Shui Significance...... 43 8.2 HISTORY AND CULTURE ...... 44 8.2.1 Kowloon-Canton Railway History...... 44 8.2.2 Residences ...... 44 8.2.2.1 TPIL 12 - De Martin’s Bungalow...... 44 8.2.3 Significant Trees...... 44 8.2.4 Conservation of Historic Buildings ...... 44 8.2.4.1 The Lookout ...... 44 8.2.4.2 Girassol ...... 45 8.2.5 Gardening and Botanic History in Hong Kong ...... 46 8.2.6 Relict Woodland ...... 46 8.2.7 Headland Landscape and Character...... 46 8.3 PUBLIC INTEREST ...... 47 8.3.1 Contribution to Gardening and Ecology in Hong Kong ...... 47 8.3.2 Conservation Studies ...... 47 8.3.3 Cultural and Heritage Value...... 47
PART C – EVALUATION ...... 48 9 SITE EVALUATION...... 48 9.1 EVALUATION CRITERIA ...... 48 9.2 SUMMARY OF HABITAT EVALUATION BASED ON EIAO-TM8...... 48 9.3 EVALUATION OF HEADLAND ...... 49 9.3.1 Size...... 49 9.3.2 Diversity ...... 49 9.3.3 Naturalness ...... 50 9.3.4 Rarity ...... 50 9.3.5 Fragility...... 50 9.3.6 Typicalness...... 51 9.3.7 Recorded History...... 51 9.3.8 Position in Ecological Unit ...... 51 9.3.9 Natural Landscape Beauty ...... 52 9.3.10 Intrinsic Appeal...... 52 9.3.11 Re-creatability ...... 52 9.3.12 Fragmentation...... 52 9.3.13 Ecological Linkage...... 53 9.3.14 Nursery/Breeding ground...... 53 9.3.15 Age...... 53 9.3.16 Abundance/Richness of wildlife ...... 53 9.3.17 Potential Value ...... 53 9.4 EVALUATION SUMMARY...... 54
4 10 ECOLOGICAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT AND PROTECTION MEASURES ...... 55 10.1 PAST MANAGEMENT IN NATURE CONSERVATION...... 55 10.2 CURRENT HEADLAND MANAGEMENT ...... 55 10.3 CONTINUED SURVEILLANCE OF THE AREA...... 55 10.4 DOCUMENTED IMPORTANCE ON FILE FOR GOVERNMENT DECISION MAKING ...... 56 10.5 FIRE PREVENTION MEASURES...... 56 10.6 CO-OPERATION WITH AFCD & DLO...... 56 10.7 CONTINUED INTRODUCTION OF THE AREA TO STUDENTS AND SPECIALISTS...... 56 10.8 MAINTAINING GOOD LINKS WITH TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS...... 56 10.9 CONTINUED HABITAT ENHANCEMENT...... 57 10.10 LABELLING NOTABLE PLANT SPECIES...... 57 10.11 CONTINUED FLORA AND FAUNA SURVEYS...... 57 10.12 ORGANIC METHODS ...... 57 10.13 SLOPE MANAGEMENT...... 57 10.14 ENLISTING NEIGHBOURHOOD ASSISTANCE ...... 58 10.15 TO CONTINUE TO ACTIVELY SHARE THE AREA...... 58 10.16 POTENTIAL ECOLOGICAL IMPACTS...... 58 10.17 IDENTIFICATION OF POTENTIALLY DAMAGING OPERATIONS...... 58 10.18 ENFORCEMENT OF PROTECTION MEASURES...... 59 10.19 MITIGATION MEASURES...... 60 10.20 MITIGATION CONDITIONS...... 60 10.21 EIA CONCLUSION...... 60 11 CONCLUSIONS...... 61
11.1 SSSI CRITERIA ...... 61 11.2 LAND ZONING STATUS...... 61 11.3 HK PLANNING STANDARDS AND GUIDELINES...... 61 11.4 ACTIVE CONSERVATION...... 61 11.5 OPPORTUNITIES ...... 61
PART D - ENDNOTES...... 63
12 REFERENCES...... 64
13 APPENDICES ...... 67
5 Part A – Introduction
1 SUMMARY
1.1 The Tai Po Kau Headland Conservation Proposal seeks to conserve an area of Government Land that is mostly zoned “Green Belt”, by rezoning it to a status that reflects its ecological and heritage values, and provides an appropriate degree of official protection. It is proposed that a. “Site of Special Scientific Interest” (SSSI) is designated for the area between Tai Po Road and Tolo Harbour known as the Headland. b. A portion of Area 40, also known as Pai Mun Shan, is designated as “Conservation Area” (CA) because it is adjacent to and ecologically part of Tai Po Kau Special Area, the most significant forest in Hong Kong. c. buffer areas around the Headland, including Tolo Pond Mangrove, be designated as CA. d. The Lookout (TPIL5) be rezoned from R(C) to OU (Special Area) to reflect its heritage value. As a secondary alternative to points (a) to (c) above, it is proposed that the same areas, including TPIL5, all be designated as OU (Special Area), annotated as “Tai Po Kau Ecological and Heritage Special Area”. Pursuant to Chapter 10 of the Hong Kong Planning Standards and Guidelines, to apply these guidelines so that conservation of the natural landscapes and the cultural and architectural heritage of the Headland is documented, recorded, facilitated and protected.
1.2 The reasons for rezoning the Headland as SSSI and Pai Mun Shan as CA are outlined as follows (these points are expanded upon later in this proposal): a. The Headland is representative of, and possibly the best remaining example of typical lowland coastal forest, which is a very rare habitat in Hong Kong; b. The Headland’s location is adjacent to Tai Po Kau Special Area, itself the best forest in Hong Kong, but lacking in coastal element – the inclusion of the Headland prevents Tai Po Kau from being ecologically isolated from the coast, thus improving the meta-population dynamics, and hence viability, of the fauna at both the Headland and Tai Po Kau; c. The Headland has a rich diversity of wildlife, which is complementary to that of Tai Po Kau, as many species at the Headland are not found at Tai Po Kau; d. The Headland has cultural and historical importance – designation as a SSSI will preserve these elements; e. The Headland has unique attributes of over 80 years protection, over 60 years with minimal human disturbance, continuing care and study; f. Unlike other Special Areas and SSSIs, designation of the Headland as a SSSI would not further burden the finances of the Agriculture, Fisheries & Conservation Department of the HKSAR Government, as the existing residents are keen to establish a private-public partnership in which the residents continue to care and manage the site; g. There is limited access to the Headland and restricted access to Pai Mun Shan – threats such as fire, illegal plant damage and illegal dumping are minimised by local action.
1.3 Whilst the Headland has sufficient important ecological value to justify being designated an SSSI, and reference to this is made throughout the proposal, the proponents also recognise opportunity for conservation on a holistic basis, whereby multiple values (see 1.5) provide the optimum chances for sustained conservation through an alternative designation of “Other Specified Uses”,
6 annotated as Tai Po Kau Ecological and Heritage Special Area (OU(Special Area)). This zoning would consist of both the Headland and Pai Mun Shan, as specified in 1.1. This would have the additional benefit of providing a similar level of conservation protection to both areas, which would enhance the ecological viability of both areas and of Tai Po Kau, due to the increased effective ecological function obtained though the conservation of the connectivity of all three areas.
1.4 The Headland has 3 lots: The Lookout R(C), which is Government owned with provisional heritage status; Girassol R(C) and TPIL12 R(C)2. These houses are low, occupy only a small portion of the lots, have garden surrounds and are compatible with nature conservation. It is proposed that the Lookout be rezoned as OU (Special Area), with criteria specifying appropriate heritage uses. It is not proposed to change the zoning or land use of Girassol in the Headland.
1.5 The site is scientifically special for the following major reasons. The proposal’s differing but complementary components are needed because the Tai Po Kau Headland has a unique combination of exceptional biological diversity, cultural heritage, a wildlife corridor linking the interior of the central NT massif to the coast, with recognized local landscape importance and remarkable ecological integrity although in proximity to residential areas. It has the 3 main attributes for conservation set out in the 1st Principle for Conservation in the HK Planning Standards and Guidelines.
1.6 The exceptional biodiversity revealed in the findings reflects the geography as being the last forest headland on this coastline and which provides a wildlife corridor linking a valuable and diverse interior area to the coast. Part of the area has been identified as relict forest. The combination of features makes this a unique, and thus important, habitat situation and hence the proposal for an SSSI. This reflects the opinion of Dudgeon & Corlett (2004: p274), who recommend the designation of representative lowland habitats as SSSIs.
1.7 The biological diversity reflects the complexity of the Headland site with its differing microclimates and vegetation types. There is relict woodland, regenerated woodland and shrubland, with 427 plant species in total, so the Headland is able to support an exceptional variety of mammals, birds and insects for its size. There are 77 species of conservation concern, including 26 moth species - 37% of Hong Kong’s moth species of conservation concern. This assemblage of moth species is of international conservation significance that, on its own, should be sufficient grounds for scheduling the Headland as a SSSI. The way the regeneration has occurred post WWII deserves proper study and the area should be conserved with this in mind. The presence of relatively intact habitats close to one of the best forests in Hong Kong on one side with the sea and mangrove on the other side makes the site an important lowland and coastal extension to Tai Po Kau Special Area.
1.8 There has been an unusual history of observation and informal conservation over some 70 years. This remarkable continuity of care merits official recognition so that development threats are reduced, private efforts for conservation are encouraged into the future, and a zoning status compatible with its values and the nearby Tai Po Kau Special Area is achieved.
1.9 In this place, history, heritage and science are complementary towards a case study on how simple maintenance by conservation minded residents can yield surprising results. However, in the absence of formal recognition of the value, the zoning provides no protection and hence much vigilance has been needed in order to prevent ill conceived plans for development.
1.10 Following the SSSI notification process of England, numerous potentially damaging operations have been identified. About 60 hectares of wooded or well vegetated hillside and countryside land nearby
7 and in Area 12 have fallen to residential property development but with no real provision for mitigation or restoration in the last few decades. Significant areas of Green Belt (GB) land were lost without compensation. This shows there is no commitment to conservation in GB zoning. Other losses are likely to continue unless some step towards conservation is taken. This proposal requests action pursuant to the Planning Department’s 4th Principle of Conservation, “Create where possible new conservation zones in compensation for areas of conservation value which are lost to development.”
1.11 This pattern of loss has left the Headland as the last wild and unspoilt place in Area 12. There are known risks from developments seeking to capitalize on the value of the natural assets of the Headland. The current planning system in Hong Kong is not sufficiently transparent, and is development led. Residents are often not informed, and thus cannot alert the authorities to adequately protect the biodiversity from the damage to land and vegetation that is often caused in the preliminary survey stage, such as when machinery is required for soil testing. Such areas are thus at risk. This risk is reduced if the area is officially recognized as valuable and zoned appropriately.
1.12 The long narrow access lane could be vulnerable to widening, which would cause severe loss and increased disturbance. Inappropriately scaled development leading to access road creation or widening and extensive slope works on the steep slopes and continued disturbance would destroy much of the biodiversity value of the area, particularly the vertebrates. The integrity of the tree cover along the access lanes will be destroyed by cutting for road works, and the landscape and fung shui values destroyed by houses taller than the trees. It is estimated that 1,000 to 4,000 trees would be lost if the access lanes were widened to permit denser development. Some of the trees on the lane are old and ought to be on the AFCD Register and protected from road widening and felling. The current zoning provides no real protection hence the re-zoning to an appropriate status is sought. Additionally, guidance for the appropriate conditions to be stipulated for any property development or road works are needed to provide adequate protection to the biological diversity. This is facilitated if the land zoning properly reflects the values of the Headland. This complies with the Planning Department’s 2nd Principle of Conservation, “Restrict uses within conservation zones to those which sustain particular landscapes and ecological attributes and heritage features”. The lane is held under a lease to Girassol.
1.13 The importance of the landscape was recognized by the Taipo Report of 1979 (URBIS, 1979) and this proposal represents a natural fulfilment of the objectives of that report some 27 years later. Additionally this is an identified heritage landscape thus with added importance for conservation.
1.14 The heritage quality of the landscape is significant as are the heritage components existing on the Headland. In summary these attributes include: a. A Megalithic stone circle is near Girassol; b. Original landscapes belonging to old Tai Po Kau reflect the early history and origins of Tai Po; c. Grave stone from 1866 and fung shui significance close to Girassol Lane; d. KCR history and early NT residences; e. The Lookout, a Grade II historic building with unique architecture, associated with important events and home to persons who contributed to the history of Hong Kong amid remarkably intact surroundings. It satisfies the criteria for conservation and formal designation under the Antiquities and Monuments Ordinance; f. Homes and gardens linked to gardening and plant history and natural history of Hong Kong, the introduction of many plants to Hong Kong commenced in the gardens of the De Martins and Girassol; g. Relict woodland;
8 h. Links to conservation of the botany and ecology of Hong Kong with various new records and discoveries and continuing conservation work; the human interest and local history coupled with links to international conservation and research institutions are unique. 1.15 Management is easily facilitated. The area is government land, zoned GB and a small area of RPA. It is a compact area of 19.4 hectares, incorporating mature native forest and with high potential for in- situ conservation. It is non-fragmented, has clear boundaries and limited access, all of which favour nature conservation. The houses in the Headland blend in with the natural environment, due to careful planting and management of suitable vegetation. Some of the houses have heritage value. The Lookout is Government owned. TPIL12 has been neglected and the garden has returned to nature.
1.16 There is a history of low maintenance management and the Conservation Proposal outlines the methods of protection to be continued in future, provided there is official recognition for this rezoning. These measures include continued surveillance for unauthorized activities, reporting to the authorities, fire prevention, co-operation with AFCD, Police and Lands Department, encouragement of students and links with tertiary institutions, organic methods of agriculture, habitat and slope management, enlisting neighbours, and advising the authorities on ecological and other impacts and on protection and mitigation measures and conditions when informed of potential dangers from developments.
1.17 The work for conservation in Hong Kong is continued by the very act of preparation and presentation of this Conservation Proposal. This proposal seeks a. to fulfil hopes expressed 27 years ago in the Tai Po Report for the conservation of the Headland. b. to implement the Planning Department’s Principles of Conservation. c. to implement the private-public initiatives and partnerships for conservation which are proposed by Nature Outlook, the Government’s Conservation Review of 2003, now incorporated in the Nature Conservation Policy of 2004. 1.18 This Conservation Proposal seeks to establish a systematic and careful evaluation system and criteria for use in Hong Kong in future. The Headland has been studied using this evaluation system.
1.19 The Evaluation Summary is that the Headland possesses all the attributes for an SSSI, and has the unique feature of a combination of attributes. A comparative review of the SSSIs of Hong Kong shows that no other place has such a holistic combination of wild, natural, cultural and built heritage, scenic beauty, local history, together with continuing benefit from a continuing case study. Other places have been zoned as SSSI simply because of one geological or biodiversity feature or rarity. This Headland does have new records and very rare species, but the combination of values is emphasized because to simply focus on a conventional species value or on particular rare and new records found here would miss the point of this unusual case. It is the combination of values that provides a location with the best chance for conservation in perpetuity and hence SSSI zoning is appropriate. This Headland meets all the SSSI criteria and all the Planning Department’s Conservation Criteria and should be zoned as SSSI.
1.20 This Study has been undertaken by relevent Hong Kong experts, the major contributors to which have certified this Study (see page 63).
1.21 Appendix 13.8 contains letters of support for this Study and the conservation of the Headland.
9 2 BACKGROUND
2.1 Heritage Factors
2.1.1 Early History Since ancient times the Headland has been recognized as important, with its own Megalithic Stone Circle showing its significance as a sacred site for our earlier cultures. This Headland protected the ancient, probably 600 hundred years old village of Tai Po Kau Lo Wai (HK Govt., 1982), which would, but for the unspoiled Headland, be now dominated by recent housing development. 2.1.2 Early New Territories Architecture Associated with the building of the KCR line from 1906 to 1907, some of the earliest examples of New Territories architecture remain in the form of The Lookout, 1913, listed by the Antiquities Advisory Board as a Grade II building. It is one of a group of New Territories Administration former residences, and other buildings, that could form the nucleus of a future heritage trail for additional tourism benefits. Such would include the Taipo District Office protected within its SSSI per Taipo OZP S/TP/16 Explanatory Statement para 7.12, Island House 1906, with historical value Explanatory Statement para. 10, the White House, and the Old Police Bungalow. The Lookout has the advantage of historic values, age, greater area, better access and beautiful, unspoiled surroundings with inspiring views and is also deserving of official protection. 2.1.3 Heritage Landscape Value In the 1950s the area was noted as having exceptional natural beauty in the New Territories and merited photographs in the Hong Kong Annual Reports and other publications. Plates 1 to 7 show how, remarkably, despite destruction by development on two sides, this remnant of visual natural beauty remains to be appreciated from Tai Po and by the many residents in nearby blocks. Early historical sources show that from the beginning of the NT lease Tai Po Kau was selected for residences because of its beauty. Phillips (1990: 62) describes how a journey through the area in 1915 would appear, noting the area approaching Tai Po Kau Station as being “particularly appealing with its fine views out across Tolo Harbour. Tai Po (later known as Tai Po Kau) was a busy little place with a jetty and pier for boarding the popular launch services to China across Mirs Bay....” He goes on to state “There was little residential development along the line side apart from a few country retreats in the vicinity of Tai Po Kau...” The author voices his regret at the disappearance of much of this scenery. Remarkably, however, a fragment of it still survives, with country retreats, just at this part of Tai Po Kau. The KCR promotional videos regularly featured scenes of this Headland with their trains emerging from the tunnels with the backdrop of mature woodland in the background. Nowadays Constellation Cove advertises itself against large picture posters of the Headland. The integrity and beauty of this Headland is essential to the residents of the new Constellation Cove development and the Recreation Priority Area nearby. It is also essential to the well being of the Lo Wai Village. 2.2 Site Values Pursuant to the Hong Kong Planning Standards and Guidelines 1st Principle of Conservation, namely “Retain significant landscapes and ecological attributes and heritage features as conservation zones”, the Headland comprises all three of these values. This combination of values makes the Headland a unique place worthy of conservation and a place for further scientific study.
10 2.3 Amenity Access Access to the Headland along the existing lane makes the area most suitable for nature study. Additionally, the area is suitable for elderly people, or for pushing infants in strollers and those less able to use Tai Po Kau Special Area. One example is the use of the Headland over the last 30 years by a wheelchair bound lady and her husband for recreation. 2.4 The Tai Po Landscape and Recreation Study Final Report of January 1979
The Tai Po Report1 was designed to be the basis for a complete master plan, with the warning that principles were valueless unless there is the will to implement them. Prepared for the NTDD, this report makes numerous points concerning this area that are still valid and even more important having regard to the way development has progressed since that time. The report (Chapter 10.1.1) included the objectives of creating and conserving existing landscapes and by adopting the highest design standards. The Tai Po Report made numerous relevant findings which support the Proposal which are briefly summarized as follows: 2.4.1 Vegetation Pattern The report noted the vegetation pattern was dominated by hill fire, leading to areas being impoverished, hence the value of existing woodland and the consequent need to protect against fire and loss (see Chapter 1.2). The Headland is noted as having mostly broadleaf woodland with some mixed pine and broadleaf, see Map 4, with the note that such areas were a surprisingly small percentage of the Tai Po area, hence worthy of special consideration (see Chapter 5.4 which recommended management plans for priority and extension of such woodlands at 5.4.5). 2.4.2 Feng Shui Woodland Feng Shui significance was noted, with feng shui woodland occurring along the prominent ridgeline of the Headland (see Chapter 2.2.20). Map 8 shows the feng shui woodland in Area 40 (known as Pai Mun Shan), adjacent to Tai Po Kau Special Area, linking with the Headland via Lookout Link and Girassol Lane, 2.4.3 Headland Vegetation Potential The Vegetation Potential of the Headland is noted to be high, and is now especially significant having regard to the loss of adjoining areas to development, see Map 5, hence the need for compensation and mitigation. 2.4.4 Landscape Quality The feng shui woodlands are one of the vital ingredients in the landscape quality and character of the Study Areas, see 2.2.20 and visually the Headland is important, see Map 9 which denotes the prominent ridge as being a landmark feature for the Study Area. The Tolo Harbour scenery was “considered as one of Hong Kong’s finest landscapes, without equal in its qualities of space and scenery…” see Chapter 4.1.1 with the ridgelines and knolls, which though small, are usually heavily wooded and very important visual elements, 4.2.5. This is consistent with past and continuing evaluations.
1 Please note that chapter references within section 2.4 of this proposal refer to chapters in the 1979 Tai Po Report
11 2.4.5 Recreation Demand (a) The pressure for recreation areas for casual walking is noted at 2.3.10, this perception has proved to be accurate, the demand and pressure on Tai Po Kau Special Area is increasing, hence the need to conserve and designate areas less accessible such as Area 40 next to it. (b) The Tolo Harbour Zone, where the Tai Po Kau Headland is situated is described in 4.5.1 as being a valuable landscape feature that is very vulnerable to change, the wooded promontories (with photos of the Headland) are described as being “heavily wooded over a substantial area, much of the woodland being ecologically rich broadleaf forest,” see 4.5.3. (c) The damage done by the Tolo Highway would be partly mitigated by planting and the impounded water areas, to provide for more mangroves, 7.4.10. (d) The vulnerability and need for conservation of these landscape qualities is noted by the comment that “All building development is low rise and absorbed within the valleys or within the woodland cover. Any marked deviation from this pattern would be to the serious detriment of the environment. This has ecological as well as amenity implications, particularly in view of the proximity of Tai Po Kau Forest Reserve.” 2.4.6 Conservation Interest In the Chapter on Conservation (see 5.5.3), the Headland is one of the areas worthy of note in an ecological context. The Headland is marked as being a Site of General Scientific Interest, noted to have existing broadleaf and mixed woodland (see Map 15). With this are the remarks that the woodlands near Tai Po Kau Lo Wai, which are closely associated visually and ecologically with Tai Po Kau Special Area, have benefited by being near private gardens and thus enriched in terms of ecological variety, which is abundantly evident, and by protection from hill fire. 2.4.7 Hillslope Woodland Policy The Hillslope Woodland Policy at 7.2 sets out the objective to be achieved to enrich the area. It is noted that the benefits and objectives from the planned long term concerted programme at 7.2.8, to re- establish “a balanced woodland ecology in the study area, rich and diverse in its flora and fauna, self-generating, and resilient to the pressures created by urbanisation”, has been successfully achieved at the Headland. With Government approval of this proposal, it is expected that this programme could sustainably continue. 2.4.8 Tai Po Report Conclusion The conclusion to be drawn from the Tai Po Report is that the Headland was to remain a valuable existing ecologically rich woodland, important visually to Tai Po, a component of its Hillslope Woodland Policy see 7.2 and Map 15, and anticipated levels of use would remain preferably low with access deterred, see 10.2.1 at page 157. 2.5 Mature Native Woodland History The 1902 map covering Tai Po area (plate 1, from Empson, 1992: p197) shows the Headland to be partly wooded, the woodland in Area 40 near the Headland is shown as a discrete area of dense woodland and with mainly stream ravines wooded in what was to become Tai Po Kau Special Area. The lack of tree cover along Tai Po Road in 1902, from Area 40 to the entrance of Tai Po Kau Special Area, shows how well the forest has regenerated subsequently. This demonstrates the importance of Area 40’s regeneration for ecological connectivity of the Headland and Tai Po Kau Special Area. The whole area was recognised as important for forestry as early as 1901, with plantations being established in Tai Po Kau (Nicholson, 1995), and the subsequent official establishment of Tai Po Kau as a forestry reserve in 1925, with the “multiple role of experimental forestry, strategic timber reserve, water catchment protection and conservation” (Nicholson, pers. comm. Jan 1995). That conservation was considered important 80 years ago shows a high degree of
12 ecological awareness and that this area was already an outstanding example of local forest worthy of protection. This remains the case. The Headland forms part of a larger woodland unit, including an example of relict feng shui woodland with fairly rich floristic composition that was identified by the EIA Report of 18th June 1996 done by Consultants in Environmental Sciences (Asia) Limited (CES) for the New Territories Development Department (NTDD). The Headland was not part of the CES study and the woodland identified by CES is at the edge of the current proposal area. In recognition of the importance of that woodland, all concerned agreed that the road alignment was to be altered to protect the woodland, see Gazette Notice 2408 of 14th November 1997 incorporating the Notice of 8th November 1997 made under the Roads (Works, Use and Compensation) Ordinance Cap.370. In fact the woodland or forest in the Headland is much larger. The whole woodland area has remained relatively undisturbed and has regenerated over the last 80 years, primarily due to passive or active protection by concerned residents. During the 1970’s and 1980’s, a stock paragraph in the Hong Kong Annual Report (e.g. HK Gvt., 1982: p.232) states “Remnants of bygone forests – either as subforest, or as well developed woodland – can occasionally be found in steep ravines. These have survived the destructive influences of man and fire by their precipitous topography and their moist winter microclimate. It is in such places that many of the more interesting plants grow.” The woodlands that formed the basis of the current proposal are excellent examples. Dudgeon and Corlett (2004: p99) also state there are few areas of forest older than 40 years due to the use of wood for fuel during and immediately following the Second World War. Old lowland and coastal forests are particularly scarce – the coastal forests in Pat Sin Leng and Sai Kung East Country Parks have only regrown since the 1950’s. This adds much value to the woodland of the Headland area. 2.6 Current Studies Ongoing observational studies of plant, bird and habitat associations will continue to lead to literature on conservation techniques and strategies. Each aspect of this Proposal notes the need for further and more formal study, and hence conservation. For example, ongoing but limited insect observation by residents with expert assistance has led to remarkable discoveries and is likely to yield more, when done systematically over time in each micro- climate and each micro-habitat. The Headland represents a working case study of how fragments of relict woodland can be restored and sustained and how such can be compatible with ecologically sensitive residences and proper planning.
13 3 RATIONALE
3.1 The Conservation Proposal Land of conservation value, zoned as Green Belt, has been shown to be lost to, or at risk of, development, due to developers perceived public demand to live close to, or in, a clean environment of high landscape appeal. Once an initial development and its access route have been constructed, the conservation integrity is lost and pressure for further development increases. The current planning process aids this, in which piecemeal changes in Green Belt land are not considered in a holistic fashion and thus the integrity of areas with conservation value is compromised, resulting in biodiversity loss. The Headland is now surrounded by many such developments that have taken place since 1990. The rationale of this proposal outlines the reasoning behind the need to protect what land of conservation value remains, and to secure official recognition of these conservation values so that protection in perpetuity is achieved.
3.1.1 Existing Zoning (a) The Headland is mostly Government owned GB zoned land on steep hillsides. There are 3 Lots, The Lookout R(C) which is Government owned with provisional heritage status, and Girassol R(C) and TPIL 12 R(C)2. These are low rise houses surrounded by large gardens with some agriculture, although TPIL12 has become neglected and disused. It will not be possible for private landowners and residents to manage property outside either their own property, or property leased to them. The land status is thus relatively simple and hence suitable for conservation use. Current environmental thinking is that every piece of habitat suitable for conservation should be saved on the basis that every little bit counts. There are major garden conservation programs existing to create a network of garden habitats for birds in the United Kingdom. Long established gardens, managed sensitively with minimal disturbance and few chemicals, are much undervalued as havens for wild species (Owen, 1991). This proposal covers such an area and an old orchard that should be looked on as an asset to conservation if properly managed, and not as an obstacle or a source of objections to conservation. The existence of private and government owned houses should be seen as compatible to appropriately managed conservation. It is not proposed to change the zoning of Girassol or TPIL12. (b) However, the first steps to secure this include obtaining official recognition and the official re- zoning of the Green Belt to SSSI and Conservation Area, or alternatively to Other Uses (Special Area), to begin the processes suggested herein. It is submitted that official recognition of the importance of this area would be in the public interest, as are its consequences. It is consistent with the official conservation policies and HK Planning Standards and Guidelines 2nd Principle of Conservation “Restrict uses within conservation zones to those which sustain particular landscapes and ecological attributes and heritage features.” 3.1.2 Problems of Existing Zoning 3.1.2.1 Adjacent Areas Lost to Development Area 12 used to be predominantly countryside, green and tree covered. However the current zoning indicates that most will be lost in the long term. In the 1990’s Villa Castell and Villa Costa and Yau King Lane were built with loss of about 15 hectares. South of the Headland there are 3 new blocks of schools which block out the district views. The large CDA, Deer Hill Bay a more dense luxury residential development was built to the southeast in about 1997. Deer Hill Bay previously was about 18 hectares of trees and countryside around St Christopher’s Home, an orphanage since 1935, and used to have at least two areas of Green Belt with significant trees but which were mostly destroyed for the purposes of
14 building Deer Hill Bay and inexplicably never compensated for. Constellation Cove residential development and club & restaurant complex was constructed in the valley to the west zoned as RPA with a further loss of about 20 hectares from 1999 to 2001. Thus both areas, which were identified existing areas with woodland in the Tai Po Report in Maps 5 and 15, were mostly lost to development without any real compensation. The WSD reservoir and road widening lost several more hectares when a wooded hillock, the remnant of the ridge, was destroyed from 2001. Thereafter Area 12 is a mixture of more CDA, fragmented strips of GB and fringing the Taipo Road, some R(C) and much Village zoning and hence would eventually be lost to suburban small house developments. The widening of the Tolo Highway resulted in the loss of some coastal fringes of the Headland. It is estimated that about 60 hectares of countryside in this area has been lost to development in the last few decades. 3.1.2.2 Developments In Progress and Planned Other developments in progress or in future and directly affecting the site include the Pak Shek Kok landfill, the Science Park developments, and TPIL 12 approved single residence. The Cathay Bungalow site, zoned R(C), was sold and redeveloped in 2003. Due to its excessive height and size, the new residence protrudes above the wooded ridgeline at that point. This is a poor result, not in keeping with the surrounding landscape and shows what should be avoided in future. A petrol filling station being constructed near the Japanese International School near GB will add undesirable impact and risk, points which have been relayed to the relevant authorities. 3.2 Land Use History and Planning Issues The planning history of the area since 1997 has been unusual and unfortunate in respect of TPIL 12 and this has contributed to the need for this Proposal. The proper working of the planning process will be facilitated by the implementation of such Proposals. By applying the Planning Standards and Guidelines Chapter 10 Conservation, it is intended that this Proposal will serve as a source of information to the relevant authorities and departments so they, in consultation with the residents maintaining the area, can provide more protection against unsuitable development applications in the future. This study is intended to provide guidance for future lease and conservation conditions and show the need for proper ecological and environmental impact assessments in future development applications. This Proposal has been in the planning stage since early 1999, with formal notice provided to the relevant authorities in June 1999. No objections in principle were received. The consultation draft of this proposal was circulated in December 2003. Useful comments were made by AFCD. Re-zoning would not adversely affect existing land uses or applications and it would enhance sustainable and appropriate use of such public resources. No compensation will be payable as the land is Government owned, designated as green belt (GB) on the Tai Po OZP. No plans or applications are known to be in existence which conflict with this proposal.
3.2.1 History of Land Use at and near Tai Po Kau Headland - Planning constraints and parameters. The main land use or development concerns are the proposed construction of an access road for TPIL 12 and excessive development of that lot, and overdevelopment in what remains of the countryside in the surrounding parts of Area 10 and 12 leading to more disintegration or fragmentation of the habitats and their cumulative impacts. See Section 3.3. 3.2.2 Summary of Recent relevant Planning History re TPIL12 3.2.2.1 Land and Planning History (a) The land and planning history is instructive as an example showing the need for better systems to conserve the countryside. There is a clear need for residents, owners and green NGOs to be properly informed and consulted but this is often not done. Information and relevant
15 documents are often not released by Government departments. Thus, pending a proper reform of the current planning system to make it transparent, there is a need for residents and private individuals or NGOs to maintain vigilance against inappropriate developments and provide some initiative in conservation. This is another reason for this Proposal, which is a private initiative, consistent with current Government thinking in the Nature Outlook policy document. (b) The material summarized herein is a simplified introduction, to inform and alert administrators and others of what can happen when seeking to conserve wooded or forest areas with trees and associated plants of some value. The complete situation is unavailable due to “privacy” issues. Many documents in the possession of Government departments were not made available despite requests, thus there is no access to relevant materials, such as surveys and proposals, by developers. Government Departments suggested the proponents request permission for such documents, but requests for copies of EIA reports for nearby and completed major projects have been declined. There is clearly room for administrative reform here. 3.2.2.2 Developmental Pressures Pressure for development in the Headland has been limited to the one lot, TPIL 12. In so far as the present intention being to build a single residence, the situation appears reasonable. However because of events since 1995 (see below) it is advisable that steps be taken to protect the Headland in the long term. 3.2.2.3 TPIL12 Access In 1967, Mrs. De Martin resident and owner of TPIL12 since 1922, died, and the property went through various hands. Just before he sold the property in 1979 Mr. Fred Hechtel extended the access track to the house TPIL12. Before then the track had ended at a point several hundred yards before TPIL12. On the 5th November 1979 TPIL12 was purchased by an investment company and the house was left vacant, became derelict and the newly dug track was not used or maintained and fell into disrepair. Girassol Lane, about 7-8 feet or 2.1 to 2.6m wide with 2 laybys, continued to be used as access by residents of Girassol and maintained at the expense of the owners of Girassol pursuant to lease conditions attached to that property. Girassol Lane continues to be maintained solely by the residents of Girassol with no financial contribution offered from others. 3.2.2.4 Unauthorised Tree Cutting On the 31st March 1995, partly because of unauthorised tree cutting, there was a Notice of Cancellation of Government Land Licence No. T19966, notifying the cancellation of a Licence for Land comprising 8,760 sq. m. of cultivation land and 670 sq.m. of access road. 3.2.2.5 1997 Re-zoning Proposal (a) On the 21st February 1997 a re-zoning proposal for TPIL12 appeared. Despite close proximity and the intention to use Girassol Lane for access, the residents of Girassol were not informed nor consulted and were not able to object as a result of which the planning was altered to permit 7 NTEH houses on TPIL12. The Explanatory Statement of Tai Po OZP No.S/TP/16 paragraph 7.5 states that in respect of Residential (Group C) 2, total area 0.09 hectare “This zoning is intended for low density residential development. The Tai Po Inland Lot No.12 in Planning Area 12 falls within this zoning. Development is restricted to a maximum plot ratio of 1.5, maximum site coverage of 50% and maximum building height of 3 storeys or the plot ratio, site coverage and height of the existing building, whichever is the greater. These restrictions are to reflect the agreed proposal permitted under the Lease and ensure that the development proposal of 7 New Territories Exempted Houses could be accommodated on the subject site.” (b) This was the only example of R(C)2 in the whole of the OZP. The use is thus different from the other lots and buildings in the vicinity which have always been R(C), and appears out of context as the place was not a village, nor near a village, and could not have justified the designation of NTEH on present information available. It seems there was inadequate consideration of the
16 access constraints imposed by the Green Belt zoning, the valuable ecology and the narrow lane attached to the lease of Girassol. 3.2.2.6 More Unauthorised Tree Damage In early 1998 surveying activity took place and many trees had tags or markers attached. More vegetation cutting took place and then tree-drilling damage was discovered in April 1998. The deliberate and furtive drilling of large trees on government Green Belt land near, and within TPIL12 was reported on by AFCD and the Police. 3.2.2.7 1998 Planning Application On the 8th August 1998 Planning Application A/TP/216 was made to re-shape the building land, by way of exchange with GB land, into a long rectangle to accommodate 7 structures in a straight line. This required re-zoning the Green Belt land. The Application was rejected on the 25th September 1998. In January 1999, the authorities again reported tree cutting. 3.2.2.8 Dual Planning Applications On a review on the 29th January 1999 the Application was again rejected. Whilst the first application A/TP/216 was still under appeal, a similar application (No. A/TP/248) was then processed and approved without any reference, or consultation, thus permitting the straightening out of the lot to enable 7 houses in a row. Again the constraints of access were not adequately dealt with, as one of the conditions for the approval was that “the design and provision of the vehicle access road to the Application site and the internal road within the application site to the satisfaction of the Commissioner for Transport or of the Town Planning Board.” 3.2.2.9 2001 Planning Application (a) Thereafter it is not clear what happened. Planning Department’s letter of 27th November 2000 recognised the importance of conservation in the area and the need to consult adequately. There then followed a further application (A/TP/271), this time with consultation, which was approved by the Town Planning Board on the 7th July 2001. This reduced the number of houses from 7 houses to one single house of 3 residential storeys with the car parking spaces reduced from 14 to 4. Objections were made to this on the basis that the structure proposed appeared to look more like a clubhouse rather than a domestic residence, and concerns remain as to what will be the next steps in these repeated applications. (b) It is understood that if a single domestic house were constructed, only minor improvements would be required to the existing access track. This would be better for the Headland’s ecology, provided the intention to use the place as a single domestic residence is complied with. The current situation is that consultation of existing residents is required in relation to the use of Girassol Lane. 3.2.2.10 Conditions to Protect Site Ecology The narrow and attractive Girassol Lane is included in the lease of Girassol. This long lane has proved to be a significant habitat feature. Whilst the integrity of the woodland is crucial to the continued existence of the wildlife inhabiting the area, this will only occur if the Government makes a serious commitment to protecting the area. By doing so, all future proposals for any development in this immediate area will need to consider this. The existing owners see a role in monitoring any proposals, activities or developments provided adequate information or consultation is carried out. Activities would continue as now, as volunteers and not in any official capacity. In this way good links have been built up with the DLO and AFCD which in response to past damage and requests did erect signs in August 1999, to replace those initially put up by residents, to warn against harm and illegal damage to vegetation and the land. The Headland is a fragile ecosystem, and susceptible to considerable damage if Girassol Lane or the access track to TPIL 12 are widened and heavily engineered with shot creting and tree cutting. Many of the significant trees and liana habitat is over or near the Lane and track. Careful
17 consideration, lease and site investigation and works conditions and monitoring will be needed to protect this habitat. This is the application of the 3rd Principle of Conservation, “Control adjoining use to minimise adverse impacts on conservation zones and optimise their conservation value.” In the light of the site’s history, special conditions are required to protect the ecology of the area and the status of the access is crucial, especially as much ecological value is assessed here. Conservation of the Headland is the most important aspect and result thereof. Detailed representations have been made to the Planning Department and District Lands Office as to the proper terms and conditions to be imposed, and future protection mechanisms and future consultation will be needed to ensure proper planning and decisions and enforcement in future. Currently it is believed that proposals for a tree survey prior to site investigation are awaited. Since severe damage can be caused even during preliminary works such as site investigation, it is necessary to impose detailed conditions prior to the approval of site investigation in fragile and easily damaged woodland slopes and areas. 3.2.2.11 Insufficiency of Tree Surveys Tree Surveys, as currently done under the Works Branch Technical Circular No 24/94, are not an adequate substitute for a proper EIA or ecological survey and suffer from numerous shortcomings. In particular the Circular states that “A plant is considered a tree if its girth ie circumference of the trunk, measures 300mm (95DBH) or more at a height of 1000mm above ground level.” This means that all trees and plants under about 10cm or 4 inches in cross section can be ignored in the survey process, even though they may be quite tall or mature trees. This leads to numerous defects in the survey process and the Circular is interpreted so that: a) Only large trees are noted on the tree survey plan. b) Smaller trees, regardless of species, are either ignored or cut in the site investigation stage and process. c) Thus many native species which seldom attain such a girth unless very old are routinely ignored and not preserved. d) Only trees, not other forest or valuable plants, are surveyed. Consequently, climbers, vines, shrubs, bamboo, herbs and ground cover are not surveyed or conserved, so that the authorities do not have an accurate picture of what is being destroyed and not replaced. For example, the vine Aristolochia tagala, a plant species protected by Forestry Regulations, subsidiary legislation of Cap. 96, or large stands of slender bamboo, or Ixora chinensis, a restricted shrub species, would not be surveyed using this method. This leads to misrepresentative reports stating only a hundred or so trees are affected when it reality large areas of woodland with thousands of trees and good habitat is being cut. e) However, such an unrealistic girth only measurement system is not adopted for the purposes of mitigation and replanting. Due to inconsistent standards, when it comes to replanting, very slender girth plants are regarded as “trees”, the criteria being a mixture of height and girth. Thus for many years following there is a severe deficit in tree and natural vegetation cover, whereas maintenance conditions of the little “trees” so planted is only for a short time with other deficiencies. Like is not replaced with like – so the habitat provided by the original trees has been lost, along with its associated faunal diversity. Hence the usual tree planting and landscaping clauses are not adequate mitigation in such natural woodland situations. f) Consequently, for this Headland and future developments of similar or greater stature, identifying sites of high conservation importance can only be achieved through thorough and proper EIA type surveys. Thus evidence of the current and future situations can be secured in order to facilitate monitoring and enforcement, and subsequently anticipate and prevent extensive damage prior to site investigation and development by the imposition of appropriate legal mechanisms.
18 3.3 Problems due to over development Landscape & Visual Impacts, and the need for Compensation for Loss of countryside. (a) The Tai Po Report of 1979 continues to be the most relevant and thorough landscape study of the area and was summarized in Section 2.4 of this Proposal. It’s findings, which were the basis for town planning, should be followed in order to facilitate the conservation of the Headland. (b) The proposed SSSI for this Headland is part of Area 12 and is closely adjacent to Area 10. Much of Area 12’s countryside in the east of the Headland has been swallowed up by construction such as, for example: the Deer Hill Bay comprehensive development area (CDA,) (which destroyed good areas of Green Belt land with mature trees), the petrol station being built on Tai Po Road (Tai Po Kau) between the WSD service reservoir and the Japanese International School. Much good woodland and stream course was disturbed or damaged in provision for services for Area 39, such as roads for the Hong Kong Institute of Education Sports Stadium access, and also for the WSD Service Reservoir that was originally part of the wildlife corridor on GB land. Recently, the Government and Institutional or GIC land has been built to the limit with schools. (c) The widening of Tolo Highway has led to loss of GB and some infilling of the ponds to the east and west on either side of the Headland. This impacts the Tolo Pond Mangrove, one of 44 mangrove stands found in Hong Kong, and listed by Tam & Wong (2000) as an important mangrove stand worthy of conservation. Other studies on fauna are required, as initial bird surveys have revealed species of conservation significance, such as the globally threatened Japanese Yellow Bunting Emberiza sulphurata (Carey et. al., 2001: 447.) and other notable species such as Pheasant-tailed Jacana (Leven & Carey, 1993), Russet Bush Warbler and Striated Heron are amongst the 70+ bird species recorded (M.Chalmers, pers. comm; R.Barretto, pers obs.). This mangrove area is currently zoned RPA due to its proximity to Constellation Cove. Ironically, the opportunity for the existing mangrove to become established arose due to the pond formation after the building of the Kowloon-Canton Railway circa 1905, as illustrated by Warner (1976: fig 118, p 116), colonising the western edges from the mangrove that existed on the eastern edge of the pond, as illustrated on 1902-03 map in Empson 1992: plate 5-2, p. 197, reproduced here on plate 1), which appears to have been the largest mangrove between Tai Po and Sha Tin. Redesignation to CA by way of mitigation for recent habitat loss due to the construction of Constellation Cove would be an appropriate land use for the Tolo Pond Mangrove. (d) A large area is designated Village (V), and currently much of this is wooded countryside, but is likely to be lost to haphazard village type or sub-urban development in the future. There is a need to list individual trees or groves of trees and other features to enhance protection. (e) Area 10, to the west of the Headland, is zoned as Recreation Priority Area. However, the Kerry Properties Constellation Cove Development has in fact turned out to be mostly residential and a restaurant, so that there has been a net loss of countryside, including the loss of hundreds of trees. Little actual land for recreation was gained in return for such a large development, despite the OZP Explanatory Statement page 8. Contrary to the Tai Po Report, there has been considerable loss of good landscape with the highest Vegetation Potential and this has not been compensated for. (f) To the south of the Headland is Area 40, which in fact is naturally contiguous to, and part of, Tai Po Kau Special Area or Nature Reserve. Area 40 is zoned merely as GB but ought to be Special Area, by reason of its significant woodland, homogeneity, and position as part of or next to Tai Po Kau Special Area. Part of the Tai Po Kau Special Area walking trail system passes through the top
19 of this area. As part of the countryside compensation and for conservation purposes, it is also important that this land adjacent to Tai Po Kau Special Area be conserved as Special Area. (g) Both the former Tai Po Outline Zoning Plan No. S/TP/9 Explanatory Statement and the current Tai Po Outline Zoning Plan No. S/TP/16 Explanatory Statement state that Residential Group C (which is the zoning of Girassol and The Lookout) provides a plot ratio control which is “intended to retain the existing scale and character of developments which blend in well with the natural environment.” This is appropriate and TPIL 12 should be the same. There is concern that unless planned by DLO and others with care, the R(C)2 rezoning of TPIL 12 will lead to unacceptable visual and ecological impacts. (h) The OZP states that the Green Belt “covers mainly steep hillsides in the peripheral areas which are of limited potential for urban type development and should be retained in their natural state. These areas nevertheless provide opportunities for additional outdoor passive recreational outlets.” There is thus no commitment to positive conservation in such areas and, having regard to the long list of uses that may be permitted on application which are not compatible with conservation, there is little room for hope that protection of fragile slopes and relict woodland will be given priority over development. (i) Cathay Bungalow site, on Lookout Link and at the edge of this Headland proposal, is of some concern. It should remain as R(C), with no permission for institutional or commercial features, with appropriate height limits so the Lookout’s historic atmosphere is respected, the landscape preserved and visual impact is reduced. No further road widening is needed. The new building is too high and has consequently destroyed part of the tree top skyline of that end of the ridge and should not be repeated in case it disturbs the feng shui benefits of the Headland. It highlights the importance of preserving the trees by listing and detailed conditions. (j) The OZP shows that there is no Conservation Area zoned in the Plan and very little SSSI, just the woods preserved for butterflies at Fung Yuen and the Egretry at Tai Po Market, surrounding the old District Office Building. This was an interesting precedent, whereby the opportunity was taken to keep a pleasant place for both historic and nature conservation reasons. Those egrets use the fragments of coast between the Headland and the Egretry via Island House and the old Boat Club, showing that to the egrets these uses are compatible and complementary to each other. This is an additional reason why the Tolo pond areas to the east and west of the Headland should be protected from any more infilling, or any other damage by the Tolo Highway. Moreover, Tolo Pond Mangrove is one of the more botanically diverse mangroves in Hong Kong and contains specimens of Heritiera littoralis, not found elsewhere in inner Tolo Harbour (Tam & Wong, 2000). There is some indication that located at Cheung Shue Tan is a Countryside Conservation Area of feng shui woodland. Cheung Shue Tan is also the type locality of Impatiens hongkongensis – a plant species endemic to Hong Kong that also occurs in Area 40. However it is not noted on the OZP, so could be overlooked or impacted upon in future developments. (k) These examples of land meriting conservation status, or of land with conservation status that has been lost to development, illustrate the lack of protection given by existing measures. The Nature Conservation Policy 2004 has not adequately addressed this. One method used by the English system for highlighting possible conflicts is the system of declaring Potentially Damaging Operations for SSSIs. This system identifies threats to land of conservation value by listing these threats on the SSSI notification documentation, such that these operations then become illegal. Such a system, in combination with the existing “permitted uses” of column 1 and column 2 status on OZPs would enable more specific planning and land use decisions.
20 3.4 Landscape Assessment - Important landscape character and landscape value (a) The Headland possesses important landscape character and thus imparts a sense of identity to the Taipo area. It thus comes well within the examples for distinctive and valued landscapes given in Annex 18 Technical Memorandum for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment. The distinctive landscape character of the Headland is enhanced by having the high landscape value, with conservation interest from woodland, being of visual buffer zone value, with structures of historic or cultural heritage value. (b) With these parameters and consistent with the Tai Po Report, the Headland is a core area between Deer Hill Bay to the east and southeast, a CDA, and the Constellation Cove RPA. It forms a natural and beautiful visual barrier between these big developments; it provides natural scenic beauty for all residents to enjoy on either side and forms a natural corridor to the coastline for the wildlife. In these regards it can be seen the SSSI proposal for the Headland will not conflict with, and in fact enhances the present planning intentions. (c) Annex 18 identifies the “specific landscape elements e.g. hill tops, ridgeline, coastline, river valleys, woodlands, ponds”. The landscape proposed to be conserved has all of these specific elements. It is an unusual case to have such a combination of advantages and values. Photographs taken from Constellation Cove and other key view points are enclosed. The old photos and the mentions in chapter 2.1.3 show that for over 50 years the Headland has been considered of scenic importance. (d) Potential impacts on the Landscape would be any widening of the long access to TPIL 12, vegetation cutting, site investigations, embankment works and overdevelopment on the lot. It has previously been estimated that depending on the width and type of road and slope works desired, tree loss would be about 1,000-4,000 trees and many more shrubs and smaller species. Houses in this vicinity should have a height no higher than 27 feet or 8.23 metres so that the tree lined landscape is respected and the tree canopy kept intact. (e) Buildings should be positioned to avoid existing trees and set well back from the boundary lines so that there is sufficient space for tall screening trees to be planted and flourish in the long term. Lease conditions should reflect the importance of the special landscape. The trees on Girassol Lane, the access track and in proximity to TPIL 12, which are good specimens, should be listed to facilitate protection in the AFCD Register of Rare and Special Trees. 3.5 Compensation, Conservation Area, SSSI and Special Area (a) Additionally making the Headland a SSSI will give retrospective compensation for the damage done and 60 hectares lost so far. Green Belt (GB) is the largest component in the OZP but is not appropriate for this Headland in Area 12 because of the large number of column 2 uses that may be permitted on application to the Town Planning Board and column 1 uses are clearly not conducive to conservation of this kind of habitat. (b) Conservation Areas in other OZPs have intentions such as to retain the existing natural character of those areas which often constitute topographical features and are well vegetated. Uses related to conservation purpose such as field study centre, education centre and visitor centre are permitted as of right while a selective range of uses such as public convenience and tent camping ground which have been perceived as having insignificant impact on the environment and infrastructural provisions could be permitted upon approval by the Town Planning Board. Conservation Area zoning as currently interpreted by the Government (i.e. a buffer area between a sensitive area and the built environment, as described in respect of the CA surrounding the She Shan Feng Shui Woodland SSSI in Lam Tsuen Valley) is not appropriate for an area as fragile as this Headland. Whilst the Headland enhances the landscape appeal for the residents of the blocks in Constellation Cove, it is not suitable
21 to be used merely as an ecological buffer area. It is a fragile ecological resource area, with special species that merit in-situ conservation and require appropriate buffering from the adjacent developments. (c) In these circumstances, the appropriate land use for true conservation purposes is SSSI. Based upon recognised criteria used in the United Kingdom, all the criteria for designating the Headland as a SSSI are met. SSSI criteria and guidance for their application in Hong Kong are not available to the public. SSSI are said to have the intention “to deter human activity or development, (other than those which are necessary to sustain the site or to serve educational purpose) and to conserve the features of special interest.” For example the She Shan Feng Shui Woodland SSSI was designated for protection of important plant species such as Asplenium nidus, protected species, and is attractive woodland for birds on migration. It is however only about 4 hectares but is surrounded by other countryside woodland. While the two areas are very different, much the same can be said of the Headland and much more because of its special position and larger size. The Headland has at least 11 clumps of Asplenium nidus growing aerially in the branches of a healthy giant Cinnamonum camphora tree, 2-3 metres in circumference in GB land just outside TPIL 12 but close to the access track. They form a remarkable educational exhibit growing in nature. 3.6 Create new conservation zones to compensate for loss to development Since the creation of the country park system in 1976, little or nothing has been done in this planning area by the authorities to foster conservation. Instead the surrounding Area 10 and Area 12 have been continually degraded by development without compensation. Hence, the time is overdue for government to do more, but it is not yet too late for constructive proposals and conservation action. Ideally the proponents of this proposal would recommend the designation of Area 40 and the Headland, which are the natural extensions of Taipo Kau Special Area, into Special Areas. Criteria that were applied to Tai Po Kau Special Area (when allocated as a special area on 29 August 1972) also still apply to Area 40, as the existing Area 40 tree cover is as mature and dense as much of Tai Po Kau was in 1972. Both Area 40 (Pai Mun Shan (see Plate 9)) and the Headland meet the criteria for the designation of a Special Area as they are relatively smaller in size than country parks, are of higher ecological value, are all Government Land, except for the two lots in the Headland, and are the areas most suited for dedication for conservation and educational uses (see “Criteria for Special Area” in Nature Outlook 2.4 page 8). Now is the time for action (under the 4th Principle of Conservation) to “Create where possible new conservation zones in compensation for areas of conservation value which are lost to development.” 3.7 Mitigation Opportunity With interested long term residents in situ, this proposal represents a pioneering opportunity and initiative to encourage local participation in a hands-on community conservation program. If residents can achieve some success with official encouragement, this will be an example by which one can measure other mitigation schemes promoted by developers. It also provides much needed support for government schemes aimed at mitigation. 3.8 Government Manpower Requirements The proposal will involve either little or no expense and minimal additional manpower from the Authorities. Existing residents suitably assisted and informed will be able to do some of the monitoring and conservation work. Existing resources properly redeployed will be sufficient at this stage, although greater resources will lead to better results and greater community benefit in a shorter time.
22 3.9 Previous Zoning Cases There is precedent for such an application. WWF applied for Sha Lo Tung and Ping Shan Tsai to be zoned as an SSS1 in 23rd December 1992 and almost 10 years later some fragments and stream courses were eventually so zoned. In the case of the Headland, a very different environment is being preserved which has no relevant Village type claims. 3.10 Proposal Conformity The Proposal is in conformity with the recent 17th July 2003 Government policy proposal for conservation, “Nature Outlook”, and the Conservation Policy of November 2004, which notes the Land Use Zoning System being used as a conservation tool to protect ecologically sensitive sites from development and incompatible land uses. This Proposal conforms to the policy suggestion for Private-Public partnership with the intention of encouraging private initiatives to support nature conservation. It may even be a site for a management arrangement. 3.11 Conclusions (a) The Headland represents some of the oldest and most ecologically integral lowland coastal forest remaining in Hong Kong, made all the more important by its function of ecologically linking Tai Po Kau Special Area to the sea and remaining forest fragments towards Sha Tin. (b) This Proposal provides an ideal opportunity for some off-site mitigation and compensation for the number and size of the developments over the last 10-15 years that have resulted in large areas of countryside being lost, and for which there has been negligible appropriate ecological mitigation or compensation. Green Belt has become fragmented and is in danger of losing its meaning and purpose. Past experience has shown time and again that Green Belt, though claimed “to define the limits of urban development….” does not deter infiltration and degradation of sensitive ecological areas, due to having numerous permitted uses upon application to the TPB. Thus GB designation does not, in reality, provide adequate protection against inappropriate development in areas of ecological significance. (c) The Headland at the border of Area 12 from Area 10 is the main countryside and landscape feature of any useable size that has a chance of surviving in the long term in Areas 10 and 12. This can only be achieved through appropriate zoning in order to protect and conserve it from future and further fragmentation and degradation. (d) By properly conserving the Headland as SSSI it will better function as a green screen and cultural and visual amenity between 2 dense developments. However in order to absorb the impacts from these developments, the SSSI should be of sufficient size and integrity or provided with more protection mechanisms and sufficiently buffered so that species survival is possible. There will be other multiple benefits as it will be a wildlife corridor between Tolo Harbour, woodlands in Chinese University of Hong Kong campus and Tai Po Kau Special Area.
23 3.12 Recommendations To combat the fragmentation and provide post-development mitigation in lieu of previous losses to developments in and around the Headland, it is considered that the Headland and other adjacent important defining features be immediately protected with an appropriate rezoning and enforcement based on the following principles (a) to (d) and proposals (e) to (k): (a) Facilitate conservation and development control to protect areas of conservation value per Chapter 10, 3.4 of the Hong Kong Planning and Standards Guidelines (HKPSG); (b) Further, or alternatively, to identify natural landscapes and habitats for conservation per Chapter 10, 3.2 of the HKPSG; to prevent further habitat loss and landscape fragmentation; (c) Conserve Historic Buildings, Archaeological sites and other Antiquities per Chapter 10, 4 of the HKPSG and the Antiquities and Monuments Ordinance Cap. 53. (d) Incorporate criteria for the selection of SSSI sites within HKSAR Government conservation policy. (e) Show or make provision for conservation and conservation use and protection of the Headland by showing, providing for, or specifying in or in respect of the Plans such appropriate diagrams, notes or descriptive matter under Section 4(1) of Cap.131; (f) Re-zone the Headland, an existing Green Belt zone in Area 12, to be a Site of Special Scientific Interest under Section 4(1)(g) of the Town Planning Ordinance Cap.131, but preferably and eventually designating the area to be a Special Area under Section 24 of the Country Parks Ordinance Cap 208. The Column 1 uses should be restricted to Biodiversity Protection Area, Wild Animals Protection Area. The Column 2 uses should be restricted to Nature Reserve and Nature Trail. (g) To re-zone most of the GB zone Area 40 contiguous with Tai Po Kau Special Area as a Conservation Area, but preferably and eventually designating as Special Area under section 24 of Cap.208, consistent with the status of the rest of Tai Po Kau Special Area. The Column 1 uses shoud be Biodiversity Protection Area, Wild Animals Protection Area and Nature Reserve. The Column 2 uses should be Picnic Area and Nature Trail. (h) Designate buffer zones around the core areas. The buffer zones should rezone existing GB and some RPA as Conservation Area with limited Column 1 uses and Column 2 uses which contain no new building development. (i) The Lookout be re-zoned from R(C) to OU (Special Area, annotated “Historic Building”) to reflect its heritage value. The Column 1 uses shoud be Wildlife Conservation Study Centre, Biodiversity Protection Area, Wild Animals Protection Area, Nature Reserve, and House. The Column 2 uses should be Nature Trail and Eating Place. (j) As a secondary alternative to points (e) to (h) above, the same area be designated as Other Specified Uses, annotated as Tai Po Kau Ecological and Heritage Special Area, i.e. OU (Special Area, annotated “Tai Po Kau Ecological and Heritage Special Area”), incorporating (i) above, with the Column 1 and Column 2 uses changing to the following: Column 1 uses should be Biodiversity Protection Area, Wild Animals Protection Area, Nature Reserve and Wildlife Conservation Study Centre (at the Lookout only); Column 2 uses should be Picnic Area and Nature Trail. (k) The scope of study be extended by HKSAR Govt. to include the tidal ponds bounded by Tolo Highway and the Kowloon-Canton Railway, and Tolo Pond mangrove as an important site for shorebirds, especially egrets (Ardeidae).
24 4 OBJECTIVES
4.1 Proposal Objectives The objectives listed below, based upon the conclusions and recommendations in Chapter 3, are to ensure the conservation and protection of the landscapes, habitats, biodiversity, heritage and amenity values of the Tai Po Kau Headland in perpetuity.
4.1.1 Objective 1 To retain the integrity of the Headland area as a whole to conserve its unique combination of values, which include landscape, history, cultural, amenity, educational, and long term data and research values. Several of these values also merit further study as indicated in the Proposal, hence enhanced protection and official recognition is required. 4.1.2 Objective 2 To maintain the Headland as an SSSI and eventually and preferably as a Special Area to provide added protection to and foster continuity with Tai Po Kau Special Area (generally known as Tai Po Kau Nature Reserve), with appropriate buffer zones. 4.1.3 Objective 3 To increase the level of protection through zoning and conservation designation to SSSI status, by highlighting the scientific value of the site by means of appropriate evaluation, and thus to preserve the area for further study as indicated throughout the Proposal. 4.1.4 Objective 4 To provide objective criteria for the evaluation of sites with conservation value. 4.1.5 Objective 5 To serve as a model demonstrating how private-public initiatives can achieve habitat, biodiversity and cultural conservation in situ, thus fulfilling policies advocated by Government and others for many years as well as the Convention on Biological Diversity.
25 Part B – Tai Po Kau Headland Information
5 SITE DEFINITION
5.1 Location (a) The Headland extends northwards into Tolo Harbour from the Taipo Road. It is in Area 12 of the Taipo OZP in the Central New Territories, in the countryside between Chinese University and Taipo. The Location is provided on Figure 4, reproduced from Tai Po OZP plan S/TP/16 of 5th July 2002. The Headland is a natural extension of the woodland and forest in the upper parts of Area 40 which itself extends on from Taipo Kau Nature Reserve and Special Area. The proposed SSSI and CA buffer areas are defined in Figure 1, with the alternatively proposed OU (Tai Po Kau Ecological and Heritage Special Area) as defined in Figure 2. The Taipo Road separates the Headland from Area 40. Although separated by the Taipo Road there is a forest link by the side of Lookout Link providing important continuous tree cover to Area 40 and thence to the existing Tai Po Kau Special Area. This is seen in various photographs at Plate 16. (b) The Headland forms a natural landscape divider between Area 10 and 12. Area 10 is mostly RPA and a strip of Taipo Kau Lo Wai Village and was until a few years ago largely countryside but is now effectively dominated by many hectares of dense blocks of housing and some separate luxury housing and a restaurant. Constellation Cove mostly faces the Headland across the attractive Tolo Ponds in front. The only major study of this area was the Tai Po Landscape and Recreation Study, Final Report January 1979 prepared for the NTDD by URBIS Planning Design Group (HK) Brian Clouston and Partners. This Tai Po Report is the planning basis for the OZP for Tai Po. In summary, this Report advocated the preservation of spurs and outlying ridges as enclosing green arms around the new towns of Tai Po and Shatin on good planning, landscape and fungshui principles. The Tai Po Report emphasized the need to separate the new towns and warned against the ribbon development so that significant green areas and prominent features could be conserved. This Proposal therefore supports that policy direction. 5.2 Zoning The current zoning, as defined in Figure 4, is GB for most of the Headland, with R(C), R(C)2 and RPA designated for the remaining portions of the site. The proposed changes are defined in Figures 1 and 2, with Figure 1 illustrating the primary zoning proposal and Figure 2 the alternative zoning proposal. The Primary Proposal Rezoning (Figure 1) The core Headland area, to become SSSI, begins from Tai Po Road and consists of steep forested slopes by the north-west side of Lookout Link, and on to Yau King Lane until a point due south of the south-west corner of Cathay. The boundary then follows the west boundary of Cathay back to Lookout Link and follows Lookout Link east to Villa Costa. At this point, the boundary follows the north-west boundary of Villa Costa and continues north-east to the KCR reserve, whence it follows the coastline north-west and west to the western old coastline (the existing RPA pond). Thereafter the boundary turns south along the old coastline, crosses the KCR and follows the existing RPA boundary back through forested steep slopes to Tai Po Road. The proposed SSSI does not include the existing private residences zoned as R(C) or R(C)2. It covers an area of approximantely 18 hectares. The Green Belt areas proposed to become buffer areas zoned as CA are generally to the east of the Headland (the proposed SSSI), along Yau King Lane, excluding private property, but including a
26 stream course, extending to the old coastline area and ponds formed by the KCR reserve and Tolo Highway. The RPA areas proposed to become buffer areas zoned as CA are generally to the west of the Headland. They consist of scenic and mature forested slopes along Tai Po Road and separate the proposed SSSI from the existing Village Zone. The Tolo Pond Mangrove, which includes the lowest and important tidal part of the Tai Po Kau stream, and which flows into the pond between the KCR embankment and Tolo Highway, are given suitable recognition and protection by rezoning to CA. The buffer areas, including the ponds to the east and west cover 28.63 hectares. The Lookout, currently zoned R(C), is proposed to be rezoned as Other Uses (Historic Building). It covers approximately 1.42 hectares. A further area of Green Belt, i.e. part of Area 40, a.k.a. Pai Mun Shan, links the Headland ecologically to Tai Po Kau Special Area, and is also proposed to be rezoned as CA. This area covers approximately 54.58 hectares. The Alternative Rezoning (Figure 2) All areas under consideration, as defined above, are proposed to be rezoned as Other Uses (Tai Po Kau Ecological and Heritage Special Area) 5.3 Access Through the Headland is the long narrow paved access Girassol Lane that is held under the lease to Girassol. Leading off from Girassol Lane is a long, narrow, unlicensed, unpaved, disused access track leading to TPIL12 that has fallen into disrepair and is gradually being reforested. Under the Headland runs the KCR in 2 tunnels that constrain the chance of dense development. On the coast is Tolo Highway, which has further restricted access to the Headland and led to further cut offs. The resulting isolation, which the steepness of the slopes and the transport barriers have contributed to, has reduced disturbance and led to an increased area of sea water or brackish ponds, i.e. Tolo Ponds, which are of use to wildlife.
27 6 PHYSICAL INFORMATION
6.1 Climate The climate is broadly similar to that described by Dudgeon & Corlett (2004), although the daily temperature range may be a little greater than the 5.2°C given therein. The Headland is exposed, has strong winds from the east and northwest in typhoons, and has high solar exposure from its east-west orientation. Sea influences are limited to the areas closer to sea level. Trees and dense climber and vine cover in the more protected southern and western slopes give damp and equable micro climates, encouraging much biological diversity. 6.2 Hydrology Two streams flow for most of the year just outside the Headland study area. One flows from Area 40 to the south west of the Headland and another flows from Area 40, through Villa Castell to the south east of the Headland proposal area. The Headland’s tree cover provides sufficient water retention in the soil to keep them running for all but the driest periods of the year. Significant throughflow from the highest points of the Headland are indicated by seepage points in banks and in particular by one line of trees that mark the line of an underground flow. In particular, significant seepage and dripping was regularly observed in the old KCR tunnel under the hill with water requiring to be channelled therefrom. Extensive engineering was subsequently adopted with the 2 current tunnels. 6.3 Geology The Headland is composed of granitic tuff. Large granodiorite boulders outcrop along the ridges. 6.4 Geomorphology The Headland was originally the end of a ridge descending from Taipo Kau Special Area adjacent Area 40. Gradually this feature has been lost to road widening and eventually part of this continuity was destroyed in 2001 to make a WSD Service reservoir. The Headland is composed of steep-sided slopes facing south- south-east and north-north-west, running from a fairly flat ridge whose summit is 88m above sea level. Several streams drain away to the bunded reclamation areas bounded by the Tolo Highway adjacent to Tolo Harbour. The Kowloon-Canton Railway tunnels through the Headland in two bores. Some slope maintenance is undertaken by KCRC to protect the tunnel portals and it is likely that reducing the current degree of woodland cover will significantly increase the risk of landslippage over the tunnel portals, thus threatening the operations of the KCRC. The high amount of woodland present on the Headland naturally stabilise the slopes and prevents any major soil erosion or landslips. A Geo-technical assessment (BMMK Ratcliffe Hoare, 1998) for Girassol recorded slopes with gradients of 1:2, 30° slopes but which have been shown to be relatively stable with no recorded landslip over a long period. 6.5 Soils The only soil type appears to be the coarse red acidic soil derived by weathering of the granitic tuff, but a complete analysis of horizon and composition has not been undertaken. Soil depths have not been measured. Small amounts of leaf litter accumulate and provide a thin humus layer in places. The garden areas are artificially high in humic content.
28 7 BIOLOGICAL INFORMATION Conservation Status follows Corlett et al. (2000) for flora and Fellowes et al. (2002) for fauna, unless otherwise stated. PRC=Potential Regional Concern, RC=Regional Concern, LC=Local Concern.
7.1 Flora The two floral surveys, mainly by Mr Chan Shu Tong (HKU) and Ken So (KFBG) in mid 1999 and by Dr Ng Sai Chit and Ken So (KFBG) in January 2000, and subsequent casual records list 427 vascular plant species (Appendix 1); indicating a high flora diversity. Although a fair proportion (139 species) of these are not native to Hong Kong, the extent of the plant community’s diversity is the outstanding feature.
7.1.1 Survey methodology Each representative habitat type within the study area was surveyed on foot in 1999 and 2000 (Chan & So, 2000; Ng, 2000). All plant species encountered were identified and recorded to species level, and the relative abundance of the plant species were also recorded. The local conservation status of these plant species was noted based on Corlett et al. (2000). The quality of the habitat was evaluated based on EIAO-TM8 & 16.
7.1.2 Baseline Conditions - Habitat/Vegetation The study area (see Figure 3) comprises predominantly forest habitat. Other habitats include residential area, which is mostly garden with large trees and orchard and vegetable gardens, tall shrubland mixture, and orchard, which provides a diversity of habitat and aspect within a compact area. A description of the general ecological conditions for each of the identified habitats is given below. Details of plant species recorded are presented in Appendix 13.7 7.1.2.1 Forest The forest habitat (marked F on Figure 3) varies greatly in height and structure but is characterised by dense canopy. Forest on the west-facing hillside of the Headland, including the forest at the back of Tai Po Kau Lo Wai, is of highest quality in the area. It reaches a height of 10-20m and has well stratified structure. Such forest probably has largely been undisturbed for up to 50-60 years. Some trees are 70 years old or more. Some large specimens of Schima superba and Liquidambar formosana on the side of the access track are up to 60 cm dbh; these trees are the most easily threatened by any potential construction work at the Headland. Aerial photos taken in 1945 already showed sparse trees and tall shrubs in the same area, suggesting the trees are now over 60 years old. It also has well developed liana and understorey levels, thus resulting in high habitat heterogeneity, and hence provides important habitats for various wildlife (see plates 13 & 14). Forest on the north- and east-facing hillside is generally 4-6m tall and probably aged over 30 years. The 1945 aerial photos only showed shrubland with some sparse trees in the same sites. It has a simpler structure with the understorey dominated by the bamboo shrub (Pseudosasa (= Arundinaria) cantori). Species composition of the forest habitat is typical of mature lowland secondary forest in Hong Kong and is dominated by native Machilus species, including the locally common M. pauhoi, and the restricted M. gamblei, as well as Schima superba and Liquidambar formosana. Species richness is high and seven species of conservation importance were found. They include two protected plants (Ailanthus fordii & Illigera celebica) and three restricted species (Machilus wangchiana (M. kadooriei), Xylosma longifolium, and Trachelospermum jasminoides), the locally common but nationally protected Aquilaria sinensis, and the restricted and Hong Kong endemic species, Callicarpa longibractiata. Because of the proximity of the area to residential area, a number of introduced trees were also found, including Eucalyptus citriodora, Casuarina equisetifolia, and Delonix regia. Some of them are of large size over 15m tall and were planted from the 1950s, being original examples of early tree planting in the NT from seedlings provided by the AFD and thus of special interest.
29 7.1.2.2 Tall Shrubland Tall shrubland (marked S on Figure 3) comprising of woody vegetation with heights ranging from 2 - 4 m is found on the top of the Headland and all sides of the Headland (see Figure 3). Habitat structure is relatively simple with only moderate heterogeneity. Species composition here is typical of similar habitat in Hong Kong. Major species include Schefflera heptaphylla, Litsea rotundifolia var. oblongifolia, Ilex asprella, Miscanthus sinensis, Ischaemum aristatum, and Dicranopteris pedata. No plant species of conservation importance were found in this habitat. 7.1.2.3 Residential Area Four residential or partially built upon areas (marked B on Figure 3) are found in the study area; they include the three sites, The Lookout, Girassol, and TPIL12, and the engineering slopes found near the highway and railway. Whereas efforts to vegetate the new highway slopes are evident, some old style shot-crete near the railway tunnel could be improved with appropriate bio-engineering methods when replacement becomes needed, see GEO Publication No.1 of 2000 by Geotechnical Engineering Office. In the residential areas habitat structure is very simple and is composed of low-rise stone & concrete residences and gardens, lawn, old orchard, and vegetable gardens with large trees and relict native woodland. Species composition is dominated by cultivated ornamental plants at the Lookout near to the house, with mature native woodland and shrubland on the surrounding slopes; Girassol has a good mixture of exotic and native species, both trees and ground cover; whereas at TPIL12 there are large mature trees, but the former garden habitat has been abandoned and become invaded by Mikania micrantha. The grasses Microstegium ciliatum dominate the abandoned area near TPIL12. Two plants of the locally very rare Dendrophthoe pentandra were found growing wild on native trees. Among the cultivated plants, however, there are three species of conservation interest. They are Rhodoleia championi, rescued from a development site on the Headland; Zingiber zerumbet, which were transplanted from Sai Kung; and Spiraea chinensis that are at the edge of the woodland near the garden. The last species is of unknown origin, but claimed to be wild (G. Barretto, pers. comm., 2000), although wild plants of this species had not been recorded at such a low altitude prior to this survey. 7.1.2.4 Orchard The Orchard (marked O on Figure 3) in the study area is dominated by typical fruit tree species, including Musa paradisiaca, Dimocarpus longan, and Litchi chinensis. Mikania micrantha is also abundant in some of this habitat as a weed, suggests that it had been abandoned for some time. Habitat structure of this habitat is similar to tall shrubland and has moderate habitat heterogeneity. No plant species of conservation importance were initially found in this habitat, however, the Dendrophthoe pentandra has subsequently been recorded.
7.1.3 Species of Conservation Concern Among the species of conservation concern (see Table 7.3), Dendrophthoe pentandra is locally very rare and the plant found by the Barretto family in the study area (at the garden and old orchard area of Girassol on native species of tree) is the first record for Hong Kong (Ng, 2001). Spiraea chinensis is locally very rare in Hong Kong and now normally found at higher altitudes. Callicarpa longibracteata is considered endemic to Hong Kong. Illigera celebica are locally rare and protected in Hong Kong. Aquilaria sinensis is locally common in lowland forest although it is listed as Class II Protected in China and globally vulnerable (IUCN, 2003). Ailanthus fordii is protected in Hong Kong. Rhodoleia championi and Zingiber zerumbet, are locally rare in Hong Kong but the plants found in this survey are transplanted individuals, with the Rhodoleia being rescued from a development site nearby and the Zingiber from Sai Kung area respectively. Rhodoleia championi is locally rare and protected, although it is now widely planted in Hong Kong using local seed sources. The ecological value of the Headland has been previously identified in 1979 by the Tai Po Report at 4.5.3 and elsewhere, noting the objective to achieve a balanced woodland ecology. The relative importance of the good broadleaf woodland to the Study Area was emphasized. The woodland has further matured since then.
30 7.1.4 Summary of Biota (vegetation & flora) Vegetation of the study area is comprised of secondary forest, with patches of tall shrubland and dense bamboo, orchard and three patches of sparsely built up residential area. The forest habitat varies in structure and height and is generally over 60 years old. The study area also has a diverse flora with up to 427 vascular plant species. The composition is similar to the lower altitude part of the Tai Po Kau Special Area. Among the flora recorded, there are eleven species of conservation importance (see Table 7.3).
7.2 Fungi Very little is known about the fungi of the Headland. Currently, five species have been recorded (see Appendix 13.1). 7.3 Fauna
7.3.1 Mammals This report identifies 17 species of mammals (30% of Hong Kong’s terrestrial species). The list (see Appendix 13.2) represents recent and historical records of wild mammal activity at the Tai Po Kau Headland. The Headland, although not having undergone long-term systematic study of mammal groups, nevertheless has received regular anecdotal sightings that date back over a decade. Some mammals associated with the nearby Tai Po Kau Special Area may include the Headland as part of their historic home range and it is likely that most of the species recorded have small resident populations on the Headland. There are also a few records from the 1960’s and 1970’s, one of which may refer to the Large Indian Civet, a species now regarded as extinct in Hong Kong. Dudgeon & Corlett (2004: p.228) note that the most diverse sites, such as Tai Po Kau support at least 13 species, and the richest forest sites are capable of supporting ten or more species. The Headland supports 12 species of non-flying terrestrial mammal, and thus should be considered as a rich forest site. 7.3.1.1 Species of Conservation Concern Eight species are listed in Fellowes et al (2002), which identifies animals of global, regional and local conservation concern (see Table 7.3 for status). In particular, the Chinese Pangolin and Malayan Porcupine are presented in the World Conservation Union (IUCN) Red List of globally threatened species. The Masked Palm Civet, Least Horseshoe Bat and Indian Muntjac have potential regional concern based on Fellowes et al (2002). 7.3.1.2 Ecological Linkage of Sites This area is opposite to Area 40 that is next to the protected Tai Po Kau Special Area. Although the Tai Po Road presents a potential barrier for animal movement between the two areas, it would not stop mammals such as Wild Boar, Barking Deer and Leopard Cats from making regular foraging forays from the Reserve and Area 40 to the Headland. This is important when considering the need to prevent genetic isolation of any possible resident groups of animals within the Headland, it is also important when considering the natural range of the larger mammals. In some countries such well-vegetated areas might be linked with nature reserves by animal tunnels and bridges, so that safe corridor access could be attained without the need for the protected animals to cross vehicular roads. The extensive mammal list presented, also includes species so far unrecorded for the Tai Po Kau Special Area. An intensive seasonal study involving mammal trapping would probably reveal further species. 7.3.1.3 Bats Least Horseshoe Bat has not been recorded in the adjacent nature reserve (Ades, et al. 2002). The bat requires tunnels and mines as day roost and breeding site and is locally rare (Ades, 1999). The bat probably frequents the Headland as a part of its foraging range, but may also be roosting in the abandoned TPIL12.
31 This is home to at least two other species of insectivorous bats. The Bicoloured Leaf-nosed Bat was identified visually and fresh droppings of a Horseshoe bat possibly the Rufous Horseshoe bat (Rhinolophus rouxi), were discovered in the building. For both species the building roost is the only known roosting site that has been located in the area. 7.3.1.4 Recommendation Based on the list of mammals recorded from this site that includes many protected and some of Hong Kong’s rarer species, the Headland should be considered an important local habitat for mammals and should be protected as such.
7.3.2 Birds Birds have been recorded informally for many years, noting mostly the unusual records rather than the common species. This has provided a useful record of changes in the Tai Po Kau Headland avifauna corresponding with changes in habitat as sparse woodland, shrubland and grassland have succeeded to the forest canopy now seen. It also represents birds seen in relatively close proximity to long established houses and gardens and a quiet narrow lane. Of particular importance are the breeding records noted. Additionally, a systematic survey during 2002-03 by Michael Kilburn provides a recent picture of the birds. Recent investigations revealed that significant bird records were made at the Headland as early as 1959. The first Fork-tailed Sunbird for Hong Kong was seen in the gardens of Wildridge, near Tai Po Kau Nature Reserve, and then the Lookout and Girassol, in the summer of 1959. This species subsequently colonised Hong Kong. The first record of Barred Cuckoo Dove in Hong Kong, on 24th January 1960, was recorded on Girassol Lane, by Cdr. J. Humphreys, who noted unsubstantiated sightings on 30th January, 21st February and 8th April 1960 by Mrs G. Barretto in the garden at Girassol. This species has only been recorded a further three times in Hong Kong, the latest being, amazingly, at Casa Pequena, Girassol forty six years later on 25th April 2006. A wing and leg of an adult Pheasant-tailed Jacana (a species of local conservation concern owing to habitat loss) was found on the Headland by Richard Lewthwaite on 14th March 2004. The most likely explanation for this extraordinary record of the remains of a wetland species being found on a forest hillside is predation by a raptor. The only previous record of this species in the area was from Tai Po Kau village on 26th May 1992 (Leven & Carey, 1993). 7.3.2.1 Species Richness 142 species of birds have been recorded at the Tai Po Kau Headland, including six species at Tolo Pond not found at the core area of the Headland. The first casual observations were made from the mid 1950s with increasingly detailed records being made through the 1980s culminating in the first systematic survey of 36 visits made from March 2002 – March 2003 (Systematic Survey). The vast majority of records are typical of forest and shrubland birds, reflecting the succession of vegetation since the 1950’s from a mostly shrub and grassy hillside to maturing secondary forest. As such these records tell a fascinating story of the gradual reforestation of the New Territories and change in avifauna reflected by this process of ecological succession. Nineteen species (Table 7.3) are listed as being of conservation concern (Fellowes et al., 2002). 7.3.2.2 Indicator Species Unsurprisingly the species list corresponds closely to the much larger and better-forested Tai Po Kau Special Area. A number of species recorded at the Headland are recognized as good indicators of mature secondary forest and feng shui woodland. These include Crested Serpent Eagle, Crested Goshawk, Great Barbet, Chestnut Bulbul, Grey-chinned and Scarlet Minivet, Orange-headed Ground Thrush, a wide range of Flycatchers and Phylloscopus warblers, Hair-crested Drongo, Tristram’s Bunting all regularly recorded. In addition a number of introduced species also typical of mature secondary forest are regularly recorded. These include Silver-eared Mesia, Blue-winged Minla, Rufous-capped Babbler, Velvet-fronted Nuthatch and Yellow-cheeked Tit. Furthermore, recent records of Mountain
32 Tailorbird and Common Rosefinch, the former a scarce new colonist of Hong Kong and the latter a now rare, but formerly common winter visitor are evidence of the attractiveness of the habitat. 7.3.2.3 Significance to Raptors Records of White-bellied Sea Eagle and Osprey, both of which have used large dead trees on Government land near TPIL 12 as roosting and feeding perches, evidence the proximity to the coast in particular. The site has Crested Goshawks breeding from 2002. The number of raptors species listed is unusual for the size of the area and indicates that the Headland location together with rich habitat is unusually favourable for predators. Large trees near to the coastline, including the tall dead trees are special features that should be conserved as important habitats for such species. 7.3.2.4 Systematic survey The systematic survey comprised 36 counts organised as a “four season survey” to correspond with the methodology used for EIA reporting in Hong Kong. However, as there are many fewer birds present in summer, the majority of the surveys were planned to coincide with the timing of the greatest number and diversity of birds, as follows: • March - May, 2002 (spring - early summer) one survey every 5 days (12 visits) • June, July, August 2002 (mid-late summer): one survey per month (3 visits) • September – November 2002 (autumn): one survey every ten days (9 visits) • December – February, 2003 (winter): one survey per week (12 visits) 7.3.2.5 Survey Method The methodology employed was a combination of a fixed route line transect supplemented by five minute point counts at predetermined locations covering the major habitat types (see Figure 3). All surveys commenced in the early morning, taking between two and three hours to complete the route. All birds seen or heard were recorded by species and number of individuals. Species seen from the Headland, but not in the woodland, garden, scrubland habitats, especially those flying out in Tolo harbour or on the fishponds and river at Constellation Cove were not recorded. 7.3.2.6 Survey Results During the survey a total of 5266 birds of 89 species were observed on the Headland, including 17 species for the first time. Another species, Siberian Blue Robin Luscinia cyane was also added during the survey period, but not during the survey itself. The commonest ten species accounted for over 72% of the abundance total, with the three commonest (Chinese Bulbul, Red-whiskered Bulbul and Japanese White-eye) alone accounting for 52%! 7.3.2.7 Breeding records. During the systematic survey numerous probable and confirmed breeding records were made. The discovery of two fully-fledged juvenile Greater Necklaced Laughingthrushes in a mature bamboo brake constituted the first proven breeding record in Hong Kong. See Table 7.1 for all the breeding records. 7.3.2.8 Summary of bird data Based on the observations summarized above, a total of 142 bird species (see Appendix 13.4) have been recorded at the Tai Po Kau Headland and Tolo Pond. These include 125 species from Categories A-D of the Hong Kong list (Carey et al. 2001), of which 35 species are confirmed or probable breeding species and 19 species are of conservation concern. There are three species whose identification is indeterminate (Savanna Nightjar/Grey Nightjar, Pale-legged Leaf Warbler/Sakhalin Leaf Warbler and a member of the Golden-spectacled Warbler species – Seicercus sp. – complex, a rare record of the species complex) and three species from Category E (Common Pheasant, Blue-throated Barbet and Hill Myna).
33
Table 7.1. Tai Po Kau Headland Breeding Birds
confirmed probable possible Systematic Greater Necklaced Laughingthrush, Chinese Bulbul, Hair-crested Drongo Slaty–legged Crake Survey Red-whiskered Bulbul, Grey-chinned Minivet, Scarlet Minivet, Oriental Magpie Robin, Blue Whistling Thrush, Rufous-capped Babbler, Blue- winged Minla, Yellow-bellied Prinia, Common Tailorbird, Scarlet-backed Flowerpecker, Fork-tailed Sunbird, Velvet-fronted Nuthatch, Great Tit, Additional Crested Goshawk, Spotted Dove, Hwamei, Hainan Chestnut-winged White-rumped Records Blue Flycatcher, Orange-bellied Leafbird, Silver- Cuckoo, Large Hawk Munia eared Mesia, Japanese White-eye, Chestnut Bulbul, Cuckoo, Common White-breasted Waterhen, Emerald Dove#, Black- Koel, Black-throated collared Starling#, Black-naped Oriole#, Tree Laughing Thrush, Sparrow#, Long-tailed Shrike#, Asian Barred Masked Laughing Owlet#, White-throated Kingfisher# Thrush# # - no longer breeding on the Headland
7.3.2.9 Conclusions (a) Both the species total and the number of confirmed or likely breeders are remarkably high for a hillside site of its size. The species composition of mainly forest and shrubland specialists is such as to invite comparison with Tai Po Kau Special Area, which has recently been designated an Important Bird Area (IBA). It should of course be remembered that Tai Po Kau Special Area is many times larger than the Headland in size. The Headland list of species contains no less than 80% of the 150 species listed for Tai Po Kau Nature Nature Reserve by Diskin (1994) and Lam (2000). Additionally, the Headland has 75% of the 45 confirmed or likely breeding species there (Tai Po Kau breeding surveys of 1988, 1989, 1991, 1992 and 1998 in Hong Kong Bird Reports of those years). (b) The reasons accounting for this richness are considered to be good habitats (from an avian point of view, a very attractive mixture of woodland, tall shrubland, dense bamboo and mature garden), location (a headland on the edge of inner Tolo Harbour and adjacent to Tai Po Kau Special Area), and the nature-friendly management of the Headland by its human residents. (c) The bird notes clearly show that the bird species composition has altered during the past decades as the habitat on the Headland has matured. Bird species of grassland, farmland or open areas such as Chinese Francolin, Rock Dove, Sooty-headed Bulbul, Long-tailed Shrike, Masked Laughingthrush, Eurasian Tree Sparrow, Black-collared Starling and Crested Myna have either declined greatly or completely disappeared. They have been replaced by a long list of shrubland and forest birds, examples being Black Baza, Crested Serpent Eagle, Crested Goshawk, Chestnut- winged Cuckoo, Large Hawk Cuckoo, Black-winged Cuckoo-shrike, Grey-chinned Minivet, Scarlet Minivet, Chestnut Bulbul, Black Bulbul, Orange-bellied Leafbird, Streak-breasted Scimitar Babbler, Rufous-capped Babbler, Greater Necklaced Laughingthrush, Black-throated Laughingthrush, Silver-eared Mesia, Blue-winged Minla, Yellow-cheeked Tit, Velvet-fronted Nuthatch and Hair-crested Drongo. The latest woodland species to arrive is the Mountain Tailor- bird. Indeed, some of these species have been recorded in very high numbers. Counts of Grey- chinned and Scarlet Minivets are the highest away from Tai Po Kau Special Area and Shing Mun CP.
34 7.3.2.10 Recommendations The Headland has not been adequately surveyed for birds prior to this Proposal and merits further study. The continuity of record keeping should be maintained, and the Headland clearly merits high conservation status to facilitate enhanced protection for research, for further undisturbed breeding and to support the adjacent Area 40 and thus access and corridors to Tai Po Kau Special Area and the upland interior. All records have been scrutinised by Richard Lewthwaite, who is a member of the Records Committee of the Hong Kong Bird Watching Society and a co-author of The Avifauna of Hong Kong.
7.3.3 Reptilia and Amphibia Snakes, skinks, and geckos abound on the Headland, with a high diversity of species recorded. Encounters with snakes are frequent, suggesting that there is sufficient naturally occurring prey to sustain viable populations of these specialised predators. Several uncommon snakes have been recorded, many of conservation concern in Hong Kong (Fellowes et al., 2002) (listed in Table 7.3), notably Ptyas muscosus and Sibynophis chinensis. The skink Sphenomorphus indicus, recorded by M.Lau in 1999 from the Headland, is uncommon in Hong Kong and confined to well developed native woodland in the central New Territories. 7.3.3.1 Species of Conservation Concern (a) Nine species of amphibian, 35% of Hong Kong’s total, were recorded (see Appendix 12.5). In view of the absence of permanent streams and hence its associated amphibians in the Tai Po Kau Headland, this site supports a rather rich amphibian community. Two of these, Brown Wood Frog [Local Concern] and Chinese Bullfrog [Potential Regional Concern], are considered to be of conservation importance (Fellowes et al., 2002). (b) One species of turtle, six species of lizard and 19 species of snake are known from the Headland. These constitute over 30% of the local reptile fauna. Quite a number of conservation concern species are present: one of Regional Concern, four of Local Concern and seven of Potential Regional Concern. Moreover, the Burmese Python is protected under the Wild Animals Protection Ordinance and the Animals and Plants (Protection of Endangered Species) Ordinance. This snake, together with Common Rat Snake, Chinese Cobra and King Cobra, are listed in CITES Appendix II. 7.3.3.2 Indicator Species The majority of the amphibians and reptiles found are forest species that also occur in the Tai Po Kau Special Area. This is also the case for other groups such as the terrestrial gastropods and the scorpion. Some of these, e.g. the Brown Wood Frog and Red Mountain Racer, are locally restricted. However the Red Mountain Racer has been found in several locations in the Headland. The heterogeneity of the site and the presence of low-altitude habitats close to sea level added further species, such as Chinese Bullfrog, Four-clawed Gecko, Copperhead Racer, Golden Kukri Snake, Checkered Keelback and Banded Krait. All of these have never been recorded from the adjacent Tai Po Kau Special Area. 7.3.3.3 Habitat Association The matured forest undoubtedly has the highest ecological and biodiversity value. However, certain forest species also take advantage of the other habitats present. For instance, the Brown Wood Frog uses the densely vegetated garden pond for breeding. The mosaic of habitats also allows animals to move from one habitat type to another. Thus forest amphibians and reptiles would have the opportunity to feed on prey originating from non-forest habitat. Some other species, such as Asiatic Painted Frog and Many-banded Krait, are less specific in their habitat use and are known to inhabit forests plus other habitats (Karsen et al., 1998).
35 7.3.3.4 Recommendation The occurrence of many conservation concern species in such a small headland (just over 19 ha) is, to a certain extent, due to its proximity to Tai Po Kau Special Area, an area that has one of the best forests in Hong Kong. The presence of relatively intact habitats close to sea adds further species and makes the site an important extension to the Nature Reserve. Hence, the Headland should be given the appropriate protected status. Considering the very small size of this Headland, further development and/or disturbance such as road-widening would affect its conservation value and should be avoided.
7.3.4 Insecta 7.3.4.1 Odonata Only Pantala flavescens has been recorded with certainty. Further reference to Wilson (1997) should increase the list as casual observation show other species to be present. The habitat is suitable for many of Hong Kong’s species of woodland Odonata. 7.3.4.2 Coleoptera At least 50 species of beetles have been recorded in total (see Appendix 13.6.1), collated from species recorded on a casual basis. Some of the staphylinid beetles recorded from Hong Kong by G. de Rougement and described by Pace (1998) were collected at Girassol. The diversity of longhorn beetles is large for such limited collecting; this group are woodboring as larvae, and thus indicate woodland habitats. Additionally, the very rare Encyalesthus sinensis (Tenebrionidae) and Maladera orientalis (Melolonthidae) occur, the latter possibly the first record for Hong Kong. The other notable constituents of the Headland’s beetle fauna include at least four species of Lampyridae (glow-worms & fire-flies). A large specimen (7.5 cm with 12 scaly segments about 1cm wide) was observed consuming a snail and photographed on 30th August 1998. This record was submitted to AFCD in September 1998 as their first record, and tentatively identified as Lychnuris analis (Fabricius, 1801). Subsequent comparison with a living specimen collected in November 2005 to Chan (2003), who notes a change of genus to Pyrocoelia, indicates that the species may not be P. analis, but is allied to P. praetexta Olivier, 1911. More study is required on this group of species. An unidentified species of Stenocladius larva also has been observed on 15th September 1998, recorded again on 12th February 2002, eating an earthworm, and found and collected in November 2005. A third, as yet unidentified larva, around 2-3mm long thought to belong to the genus Curtos, was seen on 15th September 1998. A fourth still unidentified species was seen on 1st April 1999; it was about 10mm long with a black head, yellow thorax and black elytra, and had a relatively fast bioluminescent flash. Finally, a possible fifth species was noted on 1st March 2002, on Girassol Lane, which may prove to be a species of Luciola, as it bears similarity to the female L. filiformis illustrated in Chan (2003: p 170), although is was around 20mm in length, rather than the 6 to 8 mm of L. filiformis. 7.3.4.3 Hymenoptera (a) Formicidae (ants): 36 species recorded during two brief visits (three hours in total), included one species that is uncommon in Hong Kong (Mayriella transfuga) and 17 species which remain unidentified to species level, including species that maybe new to science. (b) Chalcidoidea (Chalcid wasps): four species recorded (Anaphes sp., two Gonatocerus spp., Mymar sp. nr. taprobanicum Ward, all Mymaridae), all previously unrecorded at specific and generic level in Hong Kong. (c) Other wasps and bees recorded account for a further ten species, including Hong Kong’s largest wasp (Polistes giganticum). See Appendix 13.6.2 for a full list of hymenopteran species recorded from the Headland.
36 7.3.4.4 Lepidoptera (a) Butterflies: 83 species have been recorded so far, from primarily casual recording. This represents 35% of the known Hong Kong butterfly fauna. Based upon Fellowes et al. (2002), this includes at least four species of conservation concern in Hong Kong: Celaenorrhinus leucocera, Hasora badra, Appias albina, Tajuria maculata (the third Hong Kong record and probable first breeding site), and 20 more species considered uncommon in Hong Kong. The high number of Lycaenidae (Theclinae) and Nymphalidae (Limenitiinae) species are indicative of good quality natural forest. Appendix 13.6.5 lists the butterfly species recorded. (b) Moths: These have been the subject of informal collection by Mrs. Gloria Barretto and occasional collection and study by Dr. Roger Kendrick. Such collection and study is planned to continue because of the remarkable results to date. The current known species list of 495 species (20% of the known Hong Kong moth fauna), made from just fourteen evenings moth trapping (mercury vapour light trap) between 1998 and 2003 and casual recording from 1998 to 2003 and one short session in 2006, indicates that the site has a predominantly forest fauna, although it is still grossly under-recorded. See Appendix 13.6.5 for the full list of species and Table 7.2 for the breakdown of moth species at the Headland by status and distribution. By way of comparison, recording at Kadoorie Farm & Botanic Garden in 1998 and 1999 (the equivalent of 17 full nights trapping) yielded 796 species and intensive recording at Kadoorie Agricultural Research Centre between 1997 and 1999 resulted in 1,275 species. Increased recording effort is likely to increase the list of moths found on the Headland to in excess of 1,000 species, which would represent about 40% of the moth fauna currently known from Hong Kong. (c) Species of Conservation Concern: There are at least nine species of provisional global conservation concern, based on Fellowes et al. (2002) and Kendrick (2002), that meet IUCN Red List criteria for endangered species – Schrankia bilineata (Critically Endangered), Micromelalopha albifrons, Acidon evae, Acidon paradoxa (Endangered) and Palpita minuscula, Hyposada kadooriensis, Cerynea discontenta, Lysimelia lucida, Pangrapta roseinotata (Vulnerable), although this may be an underestimate due to the lack of knowledge about species distributions in southern China. Species recorded from the Headland thought to be restricted to Hong Kong include Athetis hongkongensis, Callopistria flavitincta, Cerynea discontenta, Lysimelia lucida, Pangrapta roseinotata, Psilalcis galsworthyi, Sauris purpurotincta, Sigilliclystis kendricki, Ugia purpurea and Schrankia bilineata, the last of which represents the third record to science (this species had been previously recorded from Mai Po and KARC and subsequently single records from Lam Tsuen Valley, Hong Kong Island, Sai Kung Peninsula and two more records from KARC). Other notable records for species with restricted global distributiuons are of Acidon evae (known from woodlands in Hong Kong and a few records from Assam and Silhet in north-east India), Acidon paradoxa (known from one record in Bhutan from the 1890’s and from several sites in the central New Territories of Hong Kong since 1998), Pangrapta plumbilineata (Hong Kong and Taiwan) and Neodrymonia filix (Hong Kong, Guangdong, north-east Vietnam). Other locally rare species include Dysaethria fulvihamata (second Hong Kong record), Idaea chotaria, Jodis nanda and Othreis hypermnestra. There are at least twenty species awaiting description and for which no global data is available. Some of these may also be restricted to Hong Kong. In total, there are at least 26 Lepidoptera species of conservation concern (see Table 7.3) that have been recorded from Tai Po Kau Headland. This assemblage of species is sufficient to merit the site’s establishment as a SSSI without any further consideration of other faunal groups. (d) Indicator Species: The species composition appears to be predominantly of woodland moths (such as the geometrine and ennomine species of Geometridae and the hypenine Noctuidae), with small elements of open habitats (grassland and coastal), specifically Condica and Spodoptera
37 spp. (Noctuidae, Hadeninae). The presence of Eilema and Dysgonia species (Arctiidae and Noctuidae respectively) in relatively high abundance also points to good quality natural woodland. Also of note is the almost total absence of moth species from the genus group Mythimna (Noctuidae, Hadeninae) that are noted grass feeders and generally recognised as highly opportunistic species, often migrating to find new resources and usually absent from mature woodland and forest – over twenty species from this group are known from Hong Kong. Similarly, the lack of Plusiinae (Noctuidae), which are mostly opportunistic species associated with cultivated or open habitats, is a good indication of high quality woodland.
Table 7.2. Status and distribution of moth species at Tai Po Kau Lo Wai Headland HK Status & Distribution Number of Species IUCN Red List qualifying species c, l 6 1 VU c, w 210 3 VU dd (r, l) 1 dd (r, rd) 6 dd (s, l) 1 HKE; c, w 4 HKE; f, w 3 HKE; s, l 2 1 CR HKE; vc, w 1 f, rd 6 f, l 28 2 EN f, w 98 r, rd 12 r, l 3 r, w 1 s, rd 11 s, l 22 s, w 9 1 EN u, rd 3 u, l 24 u, w 25 1 VU vc, w 19 Total Species 495 9 (CR, 1; EN, 3; VU, 5)
Key to status and distribution moth species status very common (150+ HK records) vc IUCN categories common (40 to 149 HK records) c Critically endangered CR frequent (20 to 39 HK records) f Endangered EN uncommon (10 to 19 HK records) u Vulnerable VU scarce (5 to 9 HK records) s rare (2 to 4 HK records) r very rare (1 HK record) vr endemic to Hong Kong HKE data deficient dd (implies other records may exist that would affect a species' status) distribution widespread (species occurs in at least four HK regional units) w local (species occurs in up to three HK regional units, more than three sites) l restricted (species occurs in up to three sites) rd
Hong Kong "Regional Units" Hong Kong Island & S.E. Outlying Islands Central New Territories Lantau Island & S.W. Outlying Islands Sai Kung Peninsula & Clear Water Bay N.W. New Territories Kowloon Peninsula N.E. New Territories
38 7.3.4.5 Diptera Specimens of 14 species have been collected, of which only 3 are identified to species. There appears to be a diverse dipteran fauna on the Headland, although as there are no specialists available to identify the species recorded, little more can be said. 7.3.4.6 Homoptera This order is inclusive of the Heteroptera, and is strictly speaking a sub-order of Hemiptera. Whiteflies (Aleyrodidae) were briefly recorded by a specialist from The Natural History Museum, London, U.K., who found 9 species, one of which is probably undescribed scientifically and one (Paraleyrodes pseudonaranjae Martin, 2001) for which the Headland is a paratype locality. Other notable species include first Hong Kong records of Eoscarta fusca (Melichar) (Cercopidae), Helopeltis fasciaticollis Poppius (Miridae), Dicranotropis sp. (Delphacidae), Pamerarma punctulata (Motchulsky) and P. rustica (Scott) (Lygaeidae). There is a high species richness of cicada species, including several that remain unidentified and Scaphoideus albomaculatus, a first Hong Kong record. A total of 55 homopterans have been recorded so far (see Appendix 13.6.7). 7.3.4.7 Other Invertebrate Orders (a) Although only casual records are available, representatives of many groups have been seen on the Headland. This includes spiders, mantids, a large range of grasshoppers and crickets, millipedes, large and numerous specimens of centipedes Scolopendra multidens and other taxa. Also present is a Hong Kong endemic forest cockroach previously found only in Tai Po Kau. Much further study is required to fully evaluate the invertebrate species living on the Headland. (b) Hong Kong’s only scorpion Hormurus (=Liocheles) australasiae (now thought to be scarce, with records mostly from Tai Po Kau and Shing Mun Country Park) was found in February 2000, and photographed, and sent to the Smithsonian for identification and was retained in their collection. This is believed to be the third or fourth site in Hong Kong and the Scorpion continues to be present with sightings and recent photographs in various places on the Headland. See Appendix 12.6.8 for a list of other invertebrate species. (c) Crustacea. A crab, Chiromantes haematocheir which had not previously been known from this part of the NT and which normally inhabits mangrove was photographed here in 2003 and seen again in 2005. Its unusual location indicates more study is needed. See Appendix 13.3 for a list of crustaceans. 7.3.4.8 Recommendations On the basis of the high proportion of moth species recorded at the Headland that meet IUCN Red List criteria (26 species out of 75 in Hong Kong), the Headland should be listed at least as a site of special scientific interest – this assemblage of moth species is of international conservation significance. Further study on invertebrate groups should be undertaken, as it will almost certainly add to the fauna of Hong Kong, and probably to science, as is illustrated by the unresolved identity of the firefly species recorded.
39 7.4 Summary Of Biota The fauna species identified in Fellowes et al. (2002) that occur at the Headland are listed in Table 7.3, below.
Table 7.3. Number of species by taxonomic group, listing species of conservation concern. TPK Headland Status Conservation Status Common Name Scientific Name (see individual section for (see individual section for definitions) definitions) Plants, 427 species (137 exotics); 11 of conservation concern Ailanthus fordii One mature tree Rare, Protected in HK Dendrohpthoe pentandra Several individuals Very rare, First record for
Hong Kong Illigera celebica One plant Rare, Protected in HK Machilus wangchiana One plant Restricted (= M. kadooriei) Xylosma longifolium One plant Restricted Trachelospermum jasminoides Several individuals Restricted Aquilaria sinensis Common Common; VU (IUCN) Callicarpa longibractiata One plant Restricted, HK Endemic Rhodoleia championi One plant (planted) Rare Zingiber zerumbet Common (planted) Rare Spiraea chinensis One plant Very rare
(origin unknown) Mammals, 17 species; 7 of conservation concern Indian Muntjac Muntiacus muntjak Sighted: 5 instances [PRC] Chinese Pangolin Manis pentadactyla Formerly present [RC] LR (IUCN) Masked Palm Civet Paguma larvata Present [RC] Small Indian (Seven-banded) Viverricula indica Present [LC] Civet Malayan Porcupine Hystrix brachyura Present and breeding [PRC] VU (IUCN) Least Horseshoe Bat Rhinolophus pusillus Present [PRC] Bicoloured leaf-nosed bat Hipposideros pomona sinensis Present all year [LC] Birds, 142 species; 19 of conservation concern Two records, both in July Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis [LC] 1996. Black-crowned Night Heron Nycticorax nycticorax Occasional sightings [LC] Osprey Pandion haliaetus Recorded once. [RC] Recorded throughout the Black Kite Milvus migrans [RC] year. Recorded throughout the White-bellied Sea Eagle Haliaeetus leucogaster [RC] year First recorded in 1996. Since then, 1-2 birds recorded Crested Serpent Eagle Spilornis cheela [LC] nearly annually and in all seasons Seven sightings, all Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrinus [LC] December-March. Pheasant-tailed Jacana Hydrophasianus chirurgus One spring record [LC] Barred Cuckoo-dove Macropygia unchall Two records [LC]
40 TPK Headland Status Conservation Status Common Name Scientific Name (see individual section for (see individual section for definitions) definitions) Occasionally recorded; White-throated Kingfisher Halcyon smynensis [LC] breeding in 1980s. Black-capped Kingfisher Halcyon pileata Occasionally recorded. [LC] Since 1997, frequently Grey-chinned Minivet Pericrocotus solaris recorded throughout the [LC] year, breeding. Upto 3 records per year Orange-bellied Leafbird Chloropsis hardwickii [LC] since 1990 Siberian Blue Robin Luscinia cyane One spring record [LC] Orange-headed Thrush Zoothera citrina Two autumn records [LC] Since the first record in Rufous-capped Babbler Stachyris ruficeps [LC] 2001, noted in all months Asian Paradise Flycatcher Terpsiphone paradisi Three records in autumn [LC] Yellow-bellied Tit Parus venustulus Two winter records [LC] White-shouldered Starling Sturnus sinensis One record in spring [LC] Amphibians, 9 species; 2 of conservation concern Brown Wood Frog Rana latouchii Present LC Chinese Bullfrog Rana rugulosa Present PRC Reptiles, 27 species; 12 of conservation concern Brown Forest Skink Sphenomorphus indicus Present LC CITES II, Burmese Python Python molurus bivittatus Present Locally protected Red Mountain Racer Elaphe porphyracea nigrofasciata Present LC Copperhead Racer Elaphe radiata Present PRC Mountain Wolf Snake Lycodon ruhstrati ruhstrati Present LC Indo-Chinese Rat Snake Ptyas korros Present PRC Common Rat Snake Ptyas mucosus Present CITES II, PRC Chinese Mountain Snake Sibynophis chinensis chinensis Present LC Banded Krait Bungarus fasciatus Present RC Many-banded Krait Bungarus multicinctus Present PRC Chinese Cobra Naja atra Present CITES II, PRC King Cobra Ophiophagus hannah Present CITES II, PRC Lepidoptera, 578 species; 26 of conservation concern. Schrankia bilineata 1 record HKE; u, l; pCR (IUCN) Micromelalopha albifrons 2 records s, w; pEN (IUCN) Acidon evae 2 records f, l; pEN (IUCN) Acidon paradoxa 3 records f, l; pEN (IUCN) Palpita minuscula 1 record HKE; u, w; pVU (IUCN) Hyposada kadooriensis 2 records HKE; c, l; pVU (IUCN) Cerynea discontenta 3 records HKE; c, w; pVU (IUCN) Lysimelia lucida 3 records HKE; c, w; pVU (IUCN) Pangrapta roseinotata 4 records HKE; c, w; pVU (IUCN) Athetis hongkongensis 2 records HKE; c, w Sigilliclystis kendricki 2 records HKE; c, w Ugia purpurea Common HKE; c, w Tajuria maculata 1 record very rare [LC]
41 TPK Headland Status Conservation Status Common Name Scientific Name (see individual section for (see individual section for definitions) definitions) Tajuria cippus 1 record rare [LC] Anomis combinans 1 record r, rd Chelonomorpha japana 1 record r, rd Diasemia reticularis 1 record r, rd Didia sp. nr. indra 1 record r, rd Dysaethria erasaria 1 record r, rd Fujimacia sp. B 1 record r, rd Goniophila hampsoni 1 record r, rd Idaea chotaria 2 records r, rd Imma sp. C nr. mylias 1 record r, rd Ozarba brunnea 1 record r, rd Progonia brunnealis 1 record r, rd Pyraustinae genus & sp. 9 1 record r, rd Coleoptera, 46+ species Hymenoptera, 44+ species Orthoptera, 11+ species Hemiptera, 55+ species Diptera, 14+ species Odonata, 1 species Other invertebrates, 29+ species
42 8 CULTURAL INFORMATION
8.1 Archaeology
8.1.1 Megalithic Stone Circle A Megalithic stone circle was discovered when the site was cleared for construction of Girassol in 1953. Consisting of 10 stones surrounding a central menhir, it was originally found covered in earth with the top of the menhir exposed. When the earth was removed the circle was revealed. Devenish undertook a professional excavation in March 1961 (Devenish, 1966). He concluded that it was a sacred structure, probably a temple and reports similar circles as having been seen in Guangdong. The estimate of age then given was about 3,000 years old. The structure was considered to be the only circle with such a menhir in Hong Kong. 8.1.2 Tai Po Kau The Voluntieri Map of Sun On District of 1866 marks the present site of Taipo Kau Lo Wai Village as “Tai-po-kau”, a Tourist Map of 1896 and a map dated 1899-1904 also state “Tai Po Kau” (Empson, 1992: 114-115, 138). This is the original site for the village. Gibbs (1932: 118), resident of The Lookout in the 1920’s, records Tai Po Kau Lo Wai was one house near the western entrance of Tai Po Tunnel. A newer area, called Taipo Kau San Wai, grew up nearer the site of the old Tai Po Kau Railway Station. The original village became known as the old village. Tai Po Kau is thus believed to be of ancient origin, 600 years old, dating from about 1400 or 1450 subject to research and information. The name Tai Po is probably derived from the pearling industry, which continued until about 1384. Tai Po thus means “great landing place” according to Dr. Patrick Hase (personal communications). Additionally, the Ferry Pier at Tai Po Kau, formerly served by the KCR, has been of economic, strategic and historical significance, there being no roads to the more distant parts of the NT administered from Tai Po such as the islands and Sai Kung. Fishing fleets moored near here and boats transporting passengers and cargo passed through here even to and from Mirs Bay and the Mainland coast. It is now of significance for amenity and historic purposes. 8.1.3 Grave Sites and Feng Shui Significance Dr Patrick Hase states that important clan graves are situated on the slopes below the Lookout. The Headland was a site with fungshui significance and was wooded before the British. It is believed that important lines can be drawn connecting the outlying heritage sites for Tai Po such as Island House, the old District Office hill, the Boat Club peninsular near old Tai Po Kau Railway Station and pier, and the hill top of Wong Leng on the Pat Sin Range. Recently a headstone from an old grave situated on a slope abutting Girassol Lane was examined and noted to date from 1886. It bears a good inscription, usual for a significant person, and provides details of the favourable feng shui specification of the site from a feng shui master. Further study is indicated hence the need to conserve this feature.
43 8.2 History and Culture
8.2.1 Kowloon-Canton Railway History Phillips (1990) described the construction of the KCR, beginning in 1905. At page 33 are 2 remarkable photos of the works, which are taken from the Headland in 1906-1907, showing the sites that eventually became the country retreats he describes at page 62. These are probably the earliest photographs of this Headland. From this time began the continuous protection of the Headland. These pictures show how the tidal Tolo Ponds were initially created and mangrove and coastal habitat spread. This habitat remained with a small beach and coastal rocks and protection by the tunnel until the Tolo Highway was built between 1982 and 1985. As a result of the Tolo Highway further tidal pools were created leading to some temporary improved local habitat until the recent Tolo Highway widening and Pak Shek Kok developments have caused long term construction disturbance and loss. 8.2.2 Residences The other land use has been residential, with gardening and agriculture. There are 3 residences, The Lookout accessed by Lookout Link, Girassol with leased access being Girassol Lane, and a former unlicensed access track to TPIL 12. 8.2.2.1 TPIL 12 - De Martin’s Bungalow On 16th February 1922 TPIL12 was purchased by Gaston Pacros de Martin, Inspector of Schools, later Director of Education, who built a bungalow and garden on platforms probably constructed for earlier KCR construction quarters, see the photos referred to above. The house was reconstructed in a similar style in the 1970’s with the garden mostly undisturbed. The garden was of notable maturity (Wilson, 2000: 49). The trees were already there in the 1920’s in the memory of Mrs Gloria Barretto who visited the de Martins at the time. Agnes de Martin said that the camphor trees were large when they moved in. These trees were subject to drilling in 1998 but one major Camphor tree numbered Y103 survived, succumbing in July 2006. Being on Government GB land it is probably the oldest tree on the Headland and is historic. Other trees killed are still valuable as roost sites for raptors because of their great height. 8.2.3 Significant Trees Several other significant old trees exist along the unlicensed access track that was originally a path, and Girassol Lane. There are major Schima, Cinnamomum and Liquidambar trees, over 2-3 metres in circumference. In particular there is an important grove of Cyclobalanopsis (=Quercus) edithiae, oak trees which mast abundant acorns with medicinal value, on the access track to TPIL12 and which are remembered as far back as the 1920s or 1930s. Further trees of horticultural significance are mentioned later (see section 8.2.5) 8.2.4 Conservation of Historic Buildings The buildings referred to in this section are assessed by the criteria for selection as historic monuments according to the Planning Standards and Guidelines Chapter 10.4 8.2.4.1 The Lookout (a) Initially the AMO only had on their files the sentence “The building was granted to Lawrence Gibbs in 1913.” Other information is that c.1925 it was built by Rogers & Gibbs (professional engineers). A naturalist by vocation with species named after him, Lionel Gibbs was a published expert on ferns (Gibbs, 1927). As the old Tai Po road was originally narrow and the journey by road more difficult, most journeys relied on the KCR railway so that it was important to have access by path to the old Tai Po Kau railway station and thence to Tai Po by causeway. There were several European style residences on hills around Tolo Harbour (Phillips, 1990). The Lookout was subsequently owned by
44 John Fraser, Attorney General then Defence Secretary of Hong Kong. He was one of Hong Kong’s World War II heroes. Fraser was executed on 29th October 1943 and he was awarded the George Cross for fortitude under the Japanese Gendarmerie, and his bravery and conduct in seeking to accept sole responsibility for the possession of the radios in Stanley Internment Camp. See Wright- Nooth & Adkin (1994: 144, 181) for parts of the tragic history. Ironically however, the occupation of his house by the Japanese military during the Second World War contributed to preventing the total cutting of the Headland for firewood as many of the significant trees, such as ‘the Oaks’, as they referred to the Quercus above, remained when the De Martins returned from internment camp in Stanley. These trees still stand nearly 60 years later. Hence this is another coincidental fact rendering the area’s ecological integrity to be unusual. His widow, Mrs Fraser, sold the Lookout to the Government in 1947. Post war it was the official residence of the Taipo District Officers, and occupied by many local Hong Kong personalities such as B.D.Wilson (Wilson, 2000: 20-24,38, 40), Denis and Marjorie Bray, see (Bray, 2001: 79), who contributed so much to the people of Hong Kong and John and Beryl Walden who contributed to the protection of a natural environment on the Headland and the history of the SAR. Beryl Walden is a noted author and eminent botanic artist (e.g. Walden & Hu 1977, 1987, 2000). The Lookout thus features in autobiographies and in a recent film produced by AMO on Denis and Marjorie Bray in 2003. Many historical or influential persons were visitors. An outline for a history has been prepared and merits further study. As indicated in the Introduction at 2.1.2, it would be an attractive part of a heritage trail for Tai Po Kau and would complement other places. The Lookout has the advantage of historic values, age, greater size, better access and beautiful unspoiled surroundings with inspiring views and which should be protected so as to conserve the context of the structure. (b) The Lookout is now listed by the Antiquities Advisory Board as being a Grade II building, which “represents buildings of special merit. Efforts should be made to preserve these but discretion is needed.” According to the Hong Kong Planning Standards and Guidelines Chapter 10.4 the following criteria are relevant. • By reason of its age, the building is in the category with characteristics to be considered for conservation. • It has been associated with important events and well known persons. • It is of unique architectural design, having an unusual tower but with verandah and features of its period, with dignity despite its small size. • It surrounding structures are intact and complement it with garage, porches, servants quarters, and stables or outhouses which all derive from the same tropical life style of 90 years ago. The charming grouping lends special value especially as the building is in an exquisite natural setting surrounded by garden and mature native woodland of significant biological interest. Its context is thus remarkably complete. The house has featured in books and illustrations of old houses in Hong Kong such as Briggs & Crisswell (1980: 42 and front cover). The Lookout clearly satisfies the criteria for conservation and formal designation under the Antiquities and Monuments Ordinance. 8.2.4.2 Girassol Girassol was completed on 14th December 1953. Designed while in P.O.W. camp by Mr. A.O. Barretto, who was also an amateur artist, it was built of granite from the site in a distinctive northern Portuguese style with tiled and arching roofs and verandahs. Girassol has had the longest continuity of residence in the area - now 53 years - and by a family with a history in Hong Kong since 1842. More land was requested for
45 agriculture. Even in those days the benefits for the environment by responsible stewardship of the land was recognized. District Offices were anxious to permit legitimate uses and to discourage illegal occupation by squatters. Organic vegetable and fruit production continues to the present day on some of the land held on cultivation permits. Girassol, at the top of the Headland was very exposed and required to be planted with trees. Some trees from the then AFD (now AFCD) including Tristania conferta were intended to have mosquito repelling value (23 trees). Some trees and shrubs were unusual, and later were the forerunners of many locally used exotics in Hong Kong. 8.2.5 Gardening and Botanic History in Hong Kong Several of the exotics grown at the gardens of the De Martins and at Girassol inspired Hong Kong gardeners and town planners and were the predecessors of many tree and shrub plantings to beautify Hong Kong from the 1970’s onwards when new town expansion began. Hence, many of the photos in the series of Urban Council plant and tree publications such as Urban Services Dept. (1976) and Thrower & Tang (1976), were of specimens growing at Girassol, which is thus the pioneer source or inspiration for many of the subsequent Hong Kong plantings. Thus one of the largest specimens of the Queen Crepe Myrtle (Lagerstroemia speciosa) is here, whereas one of the largest African Tulip Trees (Spathodea campanulata) is on Government Land near TPIL 12. This Headland deserves to be remembered and conserved for its pioneering role in deciding on some of the trees to be planted to beautify Hong Kong. Some of the original trees supplied by AFCD for reforesting Hong Kong post war are surviving here, now enormous specimens about 50 years old and worthy of special protection. Girassol has its own history as being the focus for many botanical meetings and gatherings, before and after botanical trips in Hong Kong and in China (e.g., Lancaster, 1989). Numerous eminent plantsmen, botanists, authors, Governors of Hong Kong who had been enthusiastic supporters of Hong Kong’s natural history, and experts from all over the world who have all commented on the special attributes of the Headland and hence encouraged this Proposal or provided material, have visited Girassol. Work continues on conservation from this place both in Hong Kong and the Mainland and thus the Headland continues with its role. 8.2.6 Relict Woodland Near the bend that was the original loop of the Tai Po Road around the ridge, where Girassol Lane meets Lookout Link and Yau King Lane, there was an area of relict woodland, contiguous with Taipo Kau Nature Reserve or Area 40 thereof. Over the years parts of this woodland were lost with widening of Lookout Link, creation of RCP, car parks, and Yau King Lane as consequences from the Tolo Highway construction, and the eventual destruction of the Hillock for the WSD Service Reservoir. Enough remained for its identification by consultants in 1996. The woodland is now known by bird watchers for its high bird diversity. The presence of relict and old woodland has been enhanced by the regeneration and stewardship over the post war period. Dudgeon and Corlett (2004: p99) note that there are few areas of woodland older than 40 years because of the wartime cutting; hence this area is a remarkable surviving exception. 8.2.7 Headland Landscape and Character The Landscape and distinctive character of the Headland is thus one of country residences, in a natural setting, still providing a sense of life from a past now gone. These 3 residences remain, although the de Martin’s house was rebuilt on the same foundations and in the same style as the 1922 house, but is now neglected. The land use style is distinctively that of a period some 50 to 80 years ago and is an attribute worthy of conservation and complements the ecological conservation of the area. The Tai Po Report has noted the prominent ridge with abundant ecological value. It is an important component of significant landscape beauty.
46 8.3 Public Interest
8.3.1 Contribution to Gardening and Ecology in Hong Kong As described above, the Headland has contributed to the beautification and planting of Hong Kong and publications to encourage gardening and nature study in Hong Kong. As can be seen from the Tai Po Report, carefully conserved areas such as this inspired an earlier generation of town planners in Hong Kong, and led them to believe what could be achieved by simple and effective management against fire and environmental loss. 8.3.2 Conservation Studies Following on from this, the focus of study and attention has been the use of native species for regeneration and habitat enhancement and species protection methods for the conservation of Hong Kong. Over the years exchanges of ideas, plants, methods and research with high practical scientific value has resulted from visits by many scientific researchers from educational establishments and Government Departments such as AFCD, CUHK, HKU, and groups like WWF, HKBWS, HKLS, KFBG and overseas institutions such as RBGKew. Material collected here has been sent to important collections and institutions such as the Smithsonian (Washington D.C.), The Natural History Museum (London) or others where needed or requested. 8.3.3 Cultural and Heritage Value Uniquely, the Headland has a cultural and human interest, and heritage value which complements its biodiversity value and beauty and landscape importance. This was partly recognized by the Tai Po Report many years ago and continues to be the case with even more justification. With official recognition, it can continue to foster the public interest in conservation. Herb collection for traditional Chinese medicine has taken place within the Headland. Unfortunately, during 2005, hacking of mature Aquilaria sinensis has taken place on the Headland and in Area 40.
47 Part C – Evaluation
9 SITE EVALUATION
9.1 Evaluation Criteria The Advisory Committee on Recreational Development and Nature Conservation (1975), provides the definition of SSSI for Hong Kong. The concept of the SSSI originated as a standard land-use planning term in the 1949 Town and Country Planning Act of England and Wales. It is believed that the SSSI concept has value in Hong Kong since it enables the identification, recognition, and registration of certain “sites, terrestrial or aquatic, which are of Special Scientific Interest by reason of their flora, fauna, geographic or physiographical features”. Thus, the appropriate evaluation criteria used are those from Ratcliffe (1977); which still form the basis of SSSI selection criteria in the United Kingdom. This, in turn, appears to be the basis for the EIA Technical Memorandum Annex 8, Table 2 for evaluating a site/habitat, which is referred to in the analysis.
9.2 Summary of Habitat evaluation based on EIAO-TM8 habitat woodland tall shrubland residential area orchard criteria very high to high. Naturalness Natural secondary Moderate Low to variable Moderate forest
size / hectares ~ 11.28 ~ 5.48 ~ 1.86 ~ 0.80
moderate species high species & moderate species & moderate species & Diversity and low structural structural diversity structural diversity structural diversity diversity
high: 4 plant, 6 moth high: 4 plant & 25 low: no plants of and 1 beetle species Lepidoptera species low: 1 plant of Rarity conservation of conservation of conservation conservation interest. interest. concern concern.
re-creatability low moderate high high
Fragmentation low high high high
ecological linkage high high moderate moderate
potential value high moderate moderate moderate
many birds, including many birds, including Hwamei, Rufous- nusery / potentially high for potentially high for raptors; probably capped Babbler, invertebrates invertebrates and birds breeding ground many invertebrates Greater Necklaced Laughingthrush
age / years 30 to 80 30 to 50 50 to 80+ > 20
abundance/richness high abundance, high Moderate moderate of wildlife moderate richness
48 9.3 Evaluation of Headland
9.3.1 Size “In general larger areas of habitat shall be more valuable than smaller ones, all things being equal…” The Headland is large enough, at 19.4 hectares, to support a varied community of predatory animals, principally reptiles and birds, and evidence shows numerous Carnivora use the site. For many plant species, the site is probably not large enough on its own to support viable populations of some low dispersal rate species reliant on particular agents for seed dispersal, and as a result, herbivorous species reliant on these plants are at risk of extinction locally. The Headland area is of sufficient size that continuity, integrity and overall quality are of significant amenity value for residents and visitors who walk along the lanes. Additionally, the Headland is well in excess of the 1 hectare recommended for conservation by the Technical Memorandum Annex 8, criteria for evaluating significance of ecological impact. This criterion notes Important Habitat Types in the Territory include “mature native woodland larger than 1 hectare…”. Furthermore, Annex 16 para 3, where the guiding principle states “areas and/or habitats of ecological importance (e.g. those listed in Note 1 and 2 of Appendix A) shall be conserved as far as possible…” (see Notes 1, 2 and 3 of Appendix A), also applies to the Headland which has areas of woodland (as well as other co-existing diverse areas) greatly in excess of 1 hectare. Although small compared to Tai Po Kau Special Area, the Headland probably acts as a sink site for it (source-sink metapopulation dynamics – see Hanski & Gilpin, 1997). The continuity of the link from the Headland to Tai Po Kau is essential to maintain the Headland as a viable conservation area (see Hanski, 1999, for site connectivity within a metapopulation) (see sections 9.3.12 and 9.3.13 for further details on fragmentation and site connectivity). It could thus be argued that the area under consideration should include the whole of Tai Po Kau Special Area and its environs, thus substantially increasing the size of the conservation area. When compared to other woodland SSSI’s in Hong Kong, it compares favourably, e.g. Shing Mun feng shui wood at 1.4 Ha; She Shan feng shui wood (4 Ha); Sha Lo Tung (22 Ha, but fragmented) There are possibilities of expanding the size of the SSSI to enclose other slopes to the southeast such as around or below Villa Costa where a stream course has been partially protected and remains partially natural and partially channelled. It is proposed to zone these areas as Conservation Area so they can function as buffer zones for the proposed SSSI. 9.3.2 Diversity “The more diverse the species assemblages and communities of a site, the higher is its conservation value.” Two aspects of diversity are considered here, firstly α-diversity (diversity of a single site), then β-diversity (diversity at the landscape scale, combining sites) (following Dudgeon & Corlett, 2004: p 234). The surveys undertaken to log the flora and fauna of the Headland (α-diversity) indicate that at the species level, this is a very diverse site. The best-recorded faunal group is the Lepidoptera, with over 530 species found so far, and over 1000 expected to occur given more intensive recording effort. This compares very favourably, when recording effort is taken into account, with most other sites in Hong Kong (Kadoorie Agricultural Research Centre, Shek Kong, has around 1400 lepidopteran species recorded between 1994 and 2003). The diversity of habitats within the overall woodland context is also high (β-diversity), with the two sides of the Headland having differing floral components, as well as shrub and tree dominated gardens along the top of the Headland. Perhaps the most important component is the lowland element of flora, which is one almost unique in Hong Kong, due to the
49 site’s long undisturbed history. Diversity at the microhabitat level is extremely high, with an abundance of gullies, streams, and banks all with different aspect and gradient providing many niches for herbaceous plants and associated fauna. A complete tree canopy exists over much of the site and there is a high diversity of other woodland growth forms, such as epiphytes and climbers. Most of the specialist recorders have commented favourably regarding the rich diversity of flora and fauna at the site. 9.3.3 Naturalness “Truly natural habitats (ie not modified by man) are usually highly valued. However most areas of the territory have been modified. Generally those habitats less modified will tend to be rated higher.” The largest component of the site is naturally regenerated secondary forest, which has regenerated from old forest fragments and scrub since the 1920’s without significant human disturbance. The garden areas contain a mixture of native and exotic plant species, although the structure of the gardens is primarily similar to, though more open than the natural woodland. Aerial photographs of the site show little difference in canopy structure between the natural woodland and the garden areas. An area of woodland near the junction of Lookout Link and the Girassol access lane is relict woodland. 9.3.4 Rarity “Rarity can apply to habitats as well as species. The presence of one or more rare habitats and species will give a site higher value than those without rarity.” Natural lowland coastal woodland is now very rare in Hong Kong, with most examples confined to private estates and very little covered by any conservation designation (country parks contain very few areas of mature lowland woodland). The Headland contains several plants of particular rarity, and has one new record for Hong Kong that is of interest as it was probably bird dispersed, Dendrophthoe pentandra. It supports a large number of species, ie. 77, of conservation concern in Hong Kong, e.g. Celaenorrhinus leucocera, Hasora badra, Appias albina, Tajura maculata (Lepidoptera), Ptyas muscosus and Sibynophis chinensis (Reptilia), as well as species thought to be endemic to Hong Kong, such as the moths Ugia purpurea, Schrankia bilineata, Sauris purpurotincta & Psilalcis galsworthyi. It contains several records of species that have been found nowhere else in Hong Kong (e.g. Helopeltis fasciaticollis (Miridae), Dicranotropis sp. (Delphacidae), Pamerarma punctulata and P. rustica (Lygaeidae). This combination of fauna contributes an unusually high degree of rarity for so little recording, even by Hong Kong standards. As noted in section 7.3.4.4 (c), the assemblage of Lepidoptera species that are of conservation concern is sufficient to merit the site’s establishment as a SSSI without any further consideration of other faunal groups. 9.3.5 Fragility The hydrology of the site is a critical factor to maintaining the site’s integrity. Any operations that will affect the site’s surface water and subterranean water flows will lead to a drying of the site, and thus a loss in the species diversity due to changed environmental conditions causing intolerable levels of stress to the plant communities on the Headland. This in turn will lead to local extinction for some of the site’s faunal components. The loss of plant life will reduce soil stability, and result in a much greater risk of landslippage and general loss of soil through increased rain erosion during the wet season and increased drying resulting in higher wind erosion during the dry season. Consequently, the soil’s instability is likely to further increase to the point where catastrophic slippage becomes inevitable, resulting in the complete loss of the habitat such as that exhibited around Castle Peak or in areas regularly exposed to hill fires (see chapter 10 of White et al., 1992 for the mechanics of denudation systems). A geotechnical assessment report (BMMK Ratcliffe Hoare & Co., 1998) notes that in connection with an earlier proposed multiple house development of TPIL 12, major engineering works and a substantial amount of tree felling would be necessary to upgrade the
50 access track and that increased erosion would result. Thus the microclimate of the Headland becoming dryer as the water retention capacity of the exposed soils would be vastly reduced upon the loss of tree cover. The construction and operation of a petrol station within the water catchment of the Headland’s proposed buffer zone poses a serious and realistic pollution hazard to water quality. 9.3.6 Typicalness Due to the long history of human intervention in the landscape in Hong Kong, it is difficult to say how typical the regenerated woodland is of woodlands that existed prior to the original land clearance that took place over 1000 years ago (Dudgeon & Corlett, 1994). It is thought Lauraceae and Fagaceae, both families of which are still found on the Headland, and whose species make up a significant proportion of the structural diversity of the site, dominated the original forest. In this context, the floral component may be said to be quite typical. However, due to the aforementioned human activities, most of the native large mammal fauna is now absent. It is possible that the smaller, primarily invertebrate fauna have fared better and that the remaining species constitute at least some of the likely original forest community. Compared to existing SSSI’s in Hong Kong, none exist with typical habitat attributes (e.g. species composition, floristic structure) found at the Headland, nor is any low altitude headland included in the biological SSSI system. Dudgeon & Corlett (2004: p274) recommend that representative samples of lowland habitats be designated as SSSIs. 9.3.7 Recorded History The Cultural History in section 8.2 is significant. There is human and ecological and gardening history. The Headland has been a woodland area since much of it regenerated from grassland and scrub 80 years ago, which makes it one of the oldest naturally regenerated woodlands in Hong Kong. It has seen almost continuous protection by residents. It is contemporaneous with the then Tai Po Kau Forestry Reserve being established in 1925 to become the present Special Area and Nature Reserve. Past and most residents of the properties on the Headland have been sympathetic to the conservation of nature and managed gardens in harmony with the woodland areas. The presence of human activity on the site from many hundreds of years ago has also been documented, with the excavation of a small stone circle taking place at Girassol (Devenish, 1966). 9.3.8 Position in Ecological Unit (a) The Headland is part of the central New Territories woodland belt, which would have entirely covered the District prior to human clearance many hundreds of years ago. According to the Hong Kong Annual Report 1958, p. 82 “In 1937 it was established the total forested area was 103 square miles and the total wooded country was approximately 130 square miles.” After cutting during the Japanese Occupation, a report by Tregear in 1954 quoted in the Hong Kong Annual Report 1958 established that of a total territory of 391 square miles, wooded areas were 13 square miles or 3.3%, steep country 110 square miles or 28.1%, and grass and scrub was 171 square miles or 43.7%. Hence it is significant that this Headland survived by being protected by the military occupiers of the Lookout. (b) This unit is now vastly fragmented and greatly altered. Some patches of naturally regenerated woodland remain in the Country Parks and selectively altered woods (fung shui woods) with remnant components of the likely original forest cover are still scattered through the central New Territories, especially in Lam Tsuen Valley. Naturally regenerated lowland secondary woodland is something of a rarity though, and only can be found along the Tolo Harbour coastline between Tai Po and Fo Tan, of which only significant amounts remain at The Chinese University of Hong Kong and at the Headland and along areas of the north-eastern New Territories (such as at Bride’s Pool). As the Headland is close to Tai Po Kau Special Area, it acts as a valuable sink site for
51 species dispersing from Tai Po Kau, indeed it is probably the primary such site. Consequently, the Headland is an important connecting site, providing a pathway for woodland species to disperse from Tai Po Kau through to more isolated coastal woodland sites closer to Sha Tin. As such, degradation or losses in the Headland will be expected to cumulatively impact on Tai Po Kau Special Area. 9.3.9 Natural Landscape Beauty As described in the Introduction at 2.1.3 and in the Tai Po Report at various sections, the area has for a long time been recognized as having exceptional natural beauty in the New Territories and merited photographs in the Hong Kong Annual Reports. In summary the integrity and beauty of this Headland is essential to the residents of the new Constellation Cove development and the Recreation Priority Area nearby and the Tai Po Kau Special Area and any future extension of the Special Area. It is also essential to the well being of the ancient Lo Wai Village. 9.3.10 Intrinsic Appeal [See also Annex 18 of Technical Memorandum, Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment and EIAO Guidance Note No.8/2002.] It is the last remaining headland on one side of Tolo Harbour with its woodland still intact. It is a major component in the coastal green belt. When development continues, little else will be left and all else badly fragmented. At present, the Headland contains all the essential human aspects, cultural features, landscape history, buildings and people affected together with their perceptions of the landscape character as itemized in Annex 18 paragraph 4 and described in the Tai Po Report and elsewhere in this Proposal (e.g. sections 2.1, 3.4, 8). Thus, it has many of the special landscape features listed in paragraph 6.2. Also it is an area of distinctive landscape character or Landscape Character Area, by reason of its history, heritage, buildings, its prominent ridge and hilltops, its location, feng shui associations, woodlands, scenic spots and ecology and proximity to Tai Po Kau Special Area. Additionally it is important to Lo Wai Village and other residential developments that have this Headland as their nature outlook. 9.3.11 Re-creatability “Habitats which are difficult to be re-created naturally or artificially are usually valued higher.” Unusually, information from long term residents provide accurate information on the time required for such a habitat to develop, which is between 50 and 80 years in this case. The area has diversity of habitat, and five of the nine Important Habitat Types listed in Table 1 of Annex 8, these being “1. Mature native woodland larger than one hectare”, “3. intertidal mudflats”, “4. mangrove”, “5. brackish marshes” and “9. Other habitats found to have special conservation importance by documented scientific studies”. It is noted that Man Cheung Po SSSI (an area of 29 Ha) was so designated due to the presence of a forested ravine and a private garden with a good collection of interesting plants, in effect a botanic garden. When the Headland is compared to this site in terms of re-creatability, it is estimated that the time taken to re-establish the mature woodland and gardens would be much longer. It could be interpreted that the presence of long established residences and gardens are an adjunct to management of SSSI’s. It is also noted that Tolo Pond was bunded by the construction of the Kowloon-Canton Railway in 1906 and has been growing since then. 9.3.12 Fragmentation “In general, the more fragmented habitat, the lower is its value.” At present the Headland is not fragmented but is vulnerable to such if road widening or large house developments are permitted. It is noted that incidents of tree cutting and drilling at and along the
52 access track to TPIL 12 have taken place between 1995-1999. Should the access route be altered or widened and embankment works undertaken, this would lead to an alteration of the site’s hydrology, with possibly devastating consequences for the ecology and geomorphology of the site. 9.3.13 Ecological Linkage “The value of a habitat increases if it lies in close proximity and/or links functionally to a highly valued habitat of any type.” (a) The Woodland to be conserved provides almost continuous tree cover from the Tai Po Kau Special Area. It is the last wildlife corridor from the rich interior of Tai Po Kau to the coastline on the southern side of Tolo Harbour. It provides a vital link for species that benefit from access to the coast. The link is sheltered and quiet and well provided with resting places and feeding sources. It is important as the last natural area of significant size and ecological integrity between Taipo and Chinese University with a chance of not being severely affected by overbuilding. (b) The linkages are the more valuable because they are to provide corridors to a diversity of habitat, such as shrubland, orchard land, gardens, access tracks, and sheltered routes through the forest and climbers. The WSD site damaged the linkage but if properly replanted with native species and with reduction in concrete and lawn cover some improvement can be expected. (c) The Hong Kong 2030 Planning Vision & Strategy consultation has supported the importance of such corridors. 9.3.14 Nursery/Breeding ground “Such areas are very important for the regeneration and long term survival of many organisms and their populations.” Breeding of many birds, mammals, insects, and reptiles is noted but further study on a systematic basis is needed. Young of notable mammals have been seen including young of wild boar, porcupine, and leopard cat. 9.3.15 Age “Ancient natural or semi-natural habitats are normally highly valued. For some habitats such as woodlands, older ones are normally valued much higher than recent ones.” Most of the habitats are of a known age, establishing a useful benchmark for scientific study. The relict woodland is ancient and exists next to the regenerating woods of significant age in the context of the New Territories. In 1979, the Headland already merited mention as a Site of General Scientific Interest. Additionally however, the Headland has the importance of size, integrity, location, and some unofficial protection at present. 9.3.16 Abundance/Richness of wildlife “In general sites supporting more wildlife will be rated higher.” The Headland is abundant and rich for its size, probably because of the attractive mixture of good wildlife habitats in close proximity. 9.3.17 Potential Value “Certain sites, through appropriate management or natural processes, may eventually develop a nature conservation interest substantially greater than that existing at present….” (a) The Headland has played, and continues to play, a significant role in the environmental improvement and education of Hong Kong. The Vegetation Potential was identified as being “high” in the Tai Po
53 Report of 1979 at Map 5 and Map 15, with areas of higher potential nearby. Unfortunately those areas now known as Villa Castell, Deer Hill Bay and Constellation Cove have since been lost to development, or seriously fragmented, or reduced to margins between blocks of buildings and roads and infrastructure, so as to have limited ecological integrity. Consequently, the Headland is now of greater importance to continue as a role model, provide environmental education, be a convenient field study site for CUHK, HKU etc, nearby schools, for general natural history and for study of metapopulation dynamics, as well as specific flora and fauna autecology. (b) The area is of sufficient size, continuity, integrity and overall quality to be of significant amenity, landscape, historical, cultural and ecological conservation value. Easy access makes the area suitable for wildlife photography. There is scope for casual observations and ecological data gathering. All these values are practical applications and examples of SSSI objectives. (c) In terms of further study, this study and Proposal has generated much data, which will need following up in years to come as noted above. It is hoped that such a Proposal will inspire further Private-Public partnerships to protect by conservation zoning areas of conservation interest as advocated by the policy paper Nature Outlook of 17th July 2003 and the subsequent Conservation Policy of November 2004. (d) There is increased public interest and study of SSSI’s in Hong Kong (So & Hung, 2004; So, 2004; Leung 2004a, 2004b). (e) According to SSSI submission for Kat O Chau, it is said to be “representative of what could be achieved if management and protection services could be applied to some of our offshore islands”. Similarly, the equivalent could be said of the Headland in a mainland context. 9.4 Evaluation Summary (a) There are numerous features which provide for the multiple benefits and importance of the Headland. It is the last unspoiled headland, it comes complete with a megalithic stone circle, intact and natural and old woodland and a high diversity of plants and animals. It is an important sink site in the Tai Po Kau woodland system with additional significance as a rare example of valuable coastal lowland woodland in this area, amongst the oldest examples of its type remaining in Hong Kong. It is the home to a rich community of insect species, including some yet to be described by science, others found nowhere else in Hong Kong and some that are thought to be endemic to Hong Kong. (b) The overall composition of flora and fauna at the Headland is indicative of high quality regenerating secondary woodland. Additional features include the current mosaic of vegetation types and structure that support a high diversity of fauna, including 77 species of conservation concern. (c) The site’s hydrology underpins the whole ecosystem; if tampered with, likely to cause major impact on the flora and fauna, reducing the specialist woodland community to one of an open, drier scrub system with reduced wildlife diversity. (d) The recorded history of the Headland is substantial and unique. It has played a major role in fostering non-governmental initiatives in botany, horticulture and ecological studies. The form of the megalithic stone circle is unique in Hong Kong.
54 10 ECOLOGICAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT AND PROTECTION MEASURES
10.1 Past Management In Nature Conservation The Tai Po Kau Headland has had an exceptional history of continuity of residents with an interest in and concern for, natural history and the environment. One of the earliest inhabitants of this headland Mr. Lionel Gibbs of the Lookout was an expert in Ferns. District Officers such as Brian Wilson and John and Beryl Walden have had interests in the natural history of the area, Mrs. Agnes De Martin, who lived in TPIL12, the De Martin’s Bungalow from 1922 to 1967 spanning a period of 45 years, was a well-known gardener. They were contemporaries of early Hong Kong naturalists like Geoffrey Herklots who contributed so much of the earlier research. The late Alfonso Barretto who built Girassol in 1953 was an early member of the Hong Kong Bird Watching Society [HKBWS] (founded 7th August 1957), a keen gardener, naturalist and volunteer nature warden – see HK Bird Report (1963) for obituary. Mr. Fred Hechtel was a leading visionary conservationist in Hong Kong, including secretary then chairman of HKBWS for several years. Mrs. Gloria Barretto MBE VMM is a noted botanist, gardener, a published authority on Hong Kong flora and native orchids, a contributor to conservation knowledge in Hong Kong and has been a resident for over 50 years. Ruy and Karen Barretto have contributed to botanical knowledge and conservation for over 30 years. They have all contributed to the gardening knowledge that subsequently benefited Hong Kong as described above. Such residents with such local knowledge in such a community is an asset to be encouraged in the public interest. 10.2 Current Headland Management The Headland has been managed by positive non-intervention over the greater part of the site for the last 80 or so years. The remaining areas have been managed as natural gardens or organic farming that blends into the woodland and enhance the biodiversity. Native fauna have thrived due to the control of pet dogs and cats by the residents (a night curfew), and the current lack of feral animals. The future management of the site is reliant upon good and timely communication between all relevant managing parties, especially in planning prior to undertaking site work that may impact upon the site, especially with reference to the PDO’s (see chapter 10.17). The proponents would welcome a partnership with the relevant Government departments, through the establishment of a conservation committee to undertake the conservation objectives of this study. 10.3 Continued surveillance of the area With the aim of protecting this area the proponents have always maintained a watchfulness with regard to events and activities that could possibly threaten any part of it. This is a part of everyday activities and while coming and going. This will continue so that appropriate protective measures will be implemented. These will consist of alerting the relevant authorities when any illegal activity such as tree drilling, cutting vegetation, removing vegetation, trapping birds or animals and illegal dumping of litter and construction waste is seen or suspected. There is much division of responsibility between departments and as a result it is difficult to obtain official action when such activities occur. Better liaison and a framework for action is needed. The Police have been helpful but need more information. Protection will also consist of being vigilant in response to any public notices of planned developments or activities which may impact the integrity of this area. The practice of writing letters of objection or for information to the appropriate departments, and initiating site meetings and inspections when these are deemed necessary will be continued. This serves to raise Governmental awareness and expertise with the benefits of capacity building. As a result of some of this work in 1996, the Relict
55 Woodland at the junction of Lookout Link and Girassol Lane was protected by Gazetted Notice in 1997. 10.4 Documented Importance on file for Government decision making It is also expected that by documenting the importance of this Headland by this Study, there will be reliable information readily accessible “on file” to future decision makers and the Town Planning Board when deciding on future development applications which would threaten the area. It is hoped this study will be a lasting record and used to protect the area in future, and to this end it is requested that a reference to this Study be included in the Notes to the OZP. 10.5 Fire prevention measures While there is a fire hydrant in the immediate locality, contact is maintained with the local fire brigade and they have familiarized themselves with the area in an effort to expedite their response if this is required. The need for special vigilance during the dry season or any time of perceived risk such as Ching Ming, is met by being on the lookout for any signs of smoke and these are reported without delay. A lookout point from here would give a different view of Taipo Kau Nature Reserve. During grave cleaning festivals any visitors to the area are reminded to be particularly careful about fire. The access to Girassol, known as Girassol Lane, is maintained with fire prevention as a consideration, so that vegetative fuel is not allowed to become a concern. These measures could be enhanced by the additional careful placing of official signs or a fire risk indicator as used by AFCD. 10.6 Co-operation with AFCD & DLO There has been maintained a long term and productive relationship with the AFCD. There has been liaison with the AFCD and Lands Department over the wording and placement of warning signs. If further signs were required they would be approached again. There has been a positive response from them in regard to the suggestion about replanting native trees in an area where illegal cutting was carried out. In response to the damage, on 9th August 1999 AFCD erected and subsequently maintain special warning signs against damage to vegetation contrary to the Forests and Countryside Ordinance. When new or interesting plant or insect species have been discovered, these have been sent to the relevant section of AFCD for identification or for records and it is envisaged that this mutually beneficial relationship will continue. The DLO have also erected warning signs on the track. The potential for a private-public partnership to undertake management of the Headland is an issue not yet addressed, but is considered by the proponents as worthy of consideration. 10.7 Continued introduction of the area to students and specialists Over many years the area has been visited by plant, bird and animal enthusiasts, students and specialists. The surveys themselves have generated further visits and greatly increased interest in the richness and diversity of species. While it is not envisaged that large groups of students will be able to use the area, it is anticipated that post-graduate students and other specialists will continue to use this area and as it becomes more widely known as a result of this Proposal and SSSI status, and as the range of specialists actually increases in Hong Kong this use will increase. 10.8 Maintaining good links with tertiary institutions Members of both Hong Kong Chinese University and Hong Kong University and KFBG at various levels of seniority played a part in the surveys. It is intended that these good working relationships be sustained so that they will remain aware of the rich educational resource to be found in this area. It was in fact a very senior member of HKCU’s Botanical department who first pointed out the potential educational value of the area. This is a natural follow on from the role this area has played in introducing planting species for Hong Kong’s urban plantings described under Land Use above. It is
56 hoped that this area will provide a living and intact example for students seeking future data for material for fresh editions of Chapter 5 on Succession and Climax in Dudgeon and Corlett (1994, 2004). It is intended to make this Study available to universities, environmental NGOs and centres for conservation locally and internationally, as an on-going case study of how private initiatives for conservation can be undertaken. 10.9 Continued Habitat enhancement This is subtle and long-term management of the area. For many years no toxic chemicals in the form of poisons, insecticides, pesticides, and herbicides have been knowingly used in the area (though one cannot vouch for the area extending immediately from the main road). As the pine trees died from nematode infestation, native species were encouraged. There has been an on-going programme of removing by hand invasive plants such as Mikania micrantha, which, if unchecked, is very destructive to the woodland. With future co-operation the DLO’s contractors will be guided and instructed to remove Mikania without cutting the native fauna, in line with PDO 10, reducing the opportunity for this alien ruderal species to become established following management work. There has been broadcast by hand of some berries and seeds of woodland species such as Chloranthus glaber, Ardisia crenata and Liriope spicata. Native fruit-bearing trees such as Aporusa dioica, Osmanthus matsumuranus and Syzygium hancei, the fruit of the latter being a significant food source for birds in January and February (R.Barretto, pers. obs.), are encouraged through the collection ands subsequent distribution of seeds for ex-situ conservation. Trees and shrubs such as Zanthoxylum avicennae and Murraya paniculata used by butterflies, moths and birds are encouraged. To encourage other, rarer butterfly species, some food- plants (e.g. Aristolochia) have been planted in the hope that these too will be attracted to the area. Small ponds and tubs and bird baths have been placed in the areas around the residences and gardens to provide a source of water for the many different species in an otherwise dry hilltop and to encourage Brown Tree Frogs and other amphibians. 10.10 Labelling notable plant species In keeping with the educational aspect of this area it is hoped to place discreet, long-lasting labels along the roadside on notable trees, shrubs, vines and woody herbs. As this is also a public amenity area it is hoped that incidental visitors such as walkers and workmen see and are reminded that the area is special, under protection and be informed about their natural environment at the same time. 10.11 Continued flora and fauna surveys While some record keeping has been carried out in a very informal way over many years, this proposal has generated far more systematic surveys and more widespread observation. It has also meant that records have begun on some species that were previously overlooked. It is intended to continue these surveys. It is expected the publication of this Proposal will stimulate further independent study. 10.12 Organic Methods Around the residential properties of Girassol where gardening, fruit and vegetable growing are carried on, organic methods are used. These methods are more appropriate when one is aiming to encourage a naturally diverse and healthy insect, animal and bird population. Also by doing so, it is hoped to demonstrate that an organic garden, although in very close proximity to forest, is compatible with conservation and habitat protection. 10.13 Slope management Slope management and care is undertaken on a sensitive low impact basis consistent with the appropriate Geo Publication 1 of 2000 on bio-engineering for slopes as modified for low use and low risk situations. Gutters and drains are carefully monitored and repaired with respect for the ecology
57 around. Woodland understorey ground cover species which are tolerant of shade and drought but which require little maintenance have been encouraged to bind the soil. Liriope spicata in particular with its good root system has proved to be a useful addition for future slope management. It is also a medicinal herb occasionally harvested by herbalists but on a sustainable basis. It deserves to be further studied here and adopted for low maintenance planting in slopes generally as it thrives in shady locations as well as exposed slopes. 10.14 Enlisting neighbourhood assistance While this is not a populous area we have made an effort in the past and will continue to do so in the future to inform the local residents about the richness of their local natural environment and about possible threats to the pleasant environment they treasure. This has generated much interest in bird sightings and in record-keeping of all wildlife sightings and has created such an awareness and concern that some neighbours past and present also have written to local authorities with their concerns and queries in regard to the area. 10.15 To continue to actively share the area With the awareness that this is a very special area for its ecological richness and diversity, for its natural beauty and atmosphere of green peacefulness, the residents aim to protect and maintain it as far as possible as a whole. To people in the neighbourhood it is a valuable amenity for strolling with children and bird watching. Newcomers visiting for the first time are amazed when they pass along the road, under continuous tree cover. They inevitably comment on the special nature of the place and its beauty. Others, having a long association with Hong Kong, treasure this remnant of unchanged Hong Kong. 10.16 Potential Ecological Impacts (a) The potential ecological impacts for the Proposed SSSI are at present limited. The main concern would be any extensive widening and slope works to Girassol Lane and the access track to TPIL 12 and excessive house building and vegetation clearance as set out herein. If Lookout Link and Yau King Lane becomes heavily used for access then further separate mitigation will be needed. (b) The Significance of such impacts is likely to be great. The Lane and track are important habitats running through relict woodland with much unusual liana or climber cover forming a dense overhead canopy, which naturally restricts access to medium sized vehicles. 10.17 Identification of Potentially Damaging Operations The following operations have been identified as likely to cause adverse effects to the existing ecology and geology of the site (in this sense, referring only to that designated as SSSI, and excluding TPIL12, The Lookout and Girassol). 1. Cultivation, including ploughing, rotovating, harrowing and reseeding, outside the designated permitted areas. 2. Grazing and/or stock feeding outside the designated permitted areas. 3. Mowing or other methods of cutting vegetation outside the designated permitted areas. 4. Application of manure, fertilisers and lime outside the designated permitted areas. 5. Application of pesticides and herbicides. 6. Dumping, spreading or discharge of any materials. 7. Burning. 8. The release into the site of any non-native wild, feral or domestic animal*, plant or seed.
58 9. The killing or removal of any native wild animal*, including for pest control purposes, except for educational research approved by the appropriate landowner. 10. The destruction, displacement, removal or cutting of any native plant or plant remains (including tree, shrub, herb, hedge, dead or decaying wood, moss, lichen, fungus, leaf mould, turf), but excluding management on safety grounds. 11. Within the native woodland zones of the site, exotic tree and/or woodland management, including afforestation with exotics, planting exotics, clear and selective felling, thinning, coppicing, modification of the stand or underwood, changes in species composition, cessation of management, but excluding management on safety grounds. 12. Drainage (including the use of mole, tile, tunnel or other artificial drains), beyond that specified under the terms of land leases and management on grounds of safety and sustainable use of grey water. 13. Modification of the structure of natural water courses including their banks and beds, as by re-alignment, regrading and dredging. 14. The changing of water levels and tables and water utilisation (including irrigation, storage and abstraction from existing water bodies and through boreholes), other than that in existence as of Janauary 2006. 15. Infilling of ditches, dykes, drains, ponds, pools, marshes or pits. 16. Extraction of minerals, topsoil, sub-soil and spoil. 17. Construction, removal or destruction of roads, tracks, walls, fences, hard-standards, banks, ditches or other earthworks, or the laying, maintenance or removal of pipelines and cables, above or below ground, other than maintaining existing said structures. 18. Storage of materials, except in designated areas. 19. Erection of permanent or temporary structures, or the undertaking of engineering works, including drilling. 20. Use of vehicles or craft likely to damage or disturb features of interest. 21. Recreational or other activities likely to damage or disturb features of interest.
* "animal" includes any mammal, reptile, amphibian, bird, fish or invertebrate.
10.18 Enforcement of Protection Measures All this should be carefully surveyed in detail so that protection measures can be enforced in the event of developments. Road construction into sensitive habitats is one of the major causes of ecological degradation and destruction as is noted at She Shan SSSI and other woodland habitats. A proper ecological assessment is therefore required following the Criteria listed in The EIA Technical Memorandum Annex 16 and Appendix A as this is clearly a Headland with high conservation value, namely important habitats and species of conservation importance. There has been no previous survey of the Headland. The CES Study of 1996 for Area 39 and part of Area 12 was mostly useful on plants with very limited data in respect of birds and fauna. It’s negative assumptions on the fauna were proved to be incorrect and hence was the subject of Supplemental reporting as a result of information from the residents of Girassol. However the CES Study at p. 78 noted the cumulative impacts of developments in the area on the regionally important Tai Po Kau Special Area and stated “increased urbanisation of the periphery of the Reserve could ultimately result in degradation of habitat quality in the Reserve”. This point was also made in the earlier Tai Po Report.
59 10.19 Mitigation Measures Effective and practical alternatives and mitigation measures for dealing with permanent impacts or persistent continuing impacts include limiting the traffic and parking use, limiting numbers of cars and sizes of vehicles, and limiting the width of the road to the current width of about 2.1 to 2.6 metres with laybys. Speed limits and road humps to reduce the chance of night time road kills are important. The expert assessments, in line with the EIA Technical Memorandum paragraph 4, should identify the impacts, losses or damage to habitat and species, propose measures to minimise damage or nuisance and specify mitigation and compensation measures. 10.20 Mitigation Conditions An appropriate set of mitigation conditions should be specially drafted with expert assistance to protect the habitats before site survey and site investigation, and during construction, habitat repair, and in the long term. Careful fencing of habitat and specimens will be needed. Repair of habitat will have to use native species. This will require an appropriate monitoring and audit program over a longer period than usual because of the fragility of the habitat and the longer period of establishment likely as described in the Technical Memorandum 5.5. In particular this will be needed to recommend action plans in response to unpredicted impacts and/or failed mitigation. 10.21 EIA Conclusion The Headland at the border of Area 12 from Area 10 is the main countryside and landscape feature of any useable size which has a chance of surviving in the long term in Areas 10 and12 and this can only be achieved zoning it appropriately in order to protect and conserve it from future and further fragmentation and degradation. Past experience has shown time and again that so-called Green Belt, though claimed “to define the limits of urban development….” does not deter infiltration and degradation of sensitive ecological areas and actually has numerous permitted uses upon application and does not in reality provide adequate protection against inappropriate development in areas of ecological significance. By properly conserving the Headland as SSSI it will better function as a green buffer or screen and cultural and visual amenity between 2 dense developments. However in order to be able to absorb the impacts from the developments on all sides, the SSSI should be of sufficient size and integrity or provided with more protection mechanisms so that species survival is possible. There will be other multiple benefits as it will be a green corridor for wildlife. Twenty-one potentially damaging operations have been identified and are recommended to be listed with the notification of the area as SSSI.
60 11 CONCLUSIONS
11.1 SSSI Criteria The Headland possesses all the criteria for SSSI. It additionally has the uniqueness of the combination of attributes; no other place has this holistic combination of wild, natural and cultural heritage in such an attractive setting. It has naturalness to a high degree. It was a representative typical headland that has become an outstanding representative by virtue of its regeneration over 70-80 years to becoming a rare and valuable lowland coastal forest. It is also the last remaining ecological link between Tai Po Kau and Tolo Harbour and the network of woodlands to the Chinese University of Hong Kong. There is scientific value from the past observations and value for future studies so one can try to replicate, if possible, this achievement (see Dudgeon and Corlett, 2004: p288 and Porcupine!). Some of the species found here are first records for Hong Kong, or rare. The assemblage of moth species is of international conservation significance and merits the site’s establishment as a SSSI without any further consideration of other criteria. There is clearly a need for more study into the species, habitats and associations and how natural re-generation leads to natural biodiversity re-introduction as revealed in the observations leading to this Proposal. In order to permit this and continue this process and not break the chain of observations and management and care, the Headland needs to be officially recognized by Government as an SSSI so it can be conserved. 11.2 Land Zoning Status The present land status is simple, but does not protect the place adequately in the long term. It is urgent to act now before applications and further development complicate and cumulatively degrade the integrity and beauty of the site. Re-zoning the Government GB land now will be relatively simple and should be done without delay in the public interest. 11.3 HK Planning Standards and Guidelines Applying the Hong Kong Planning Standards and Guidelines Chapter 10 is appropriate in this case. This Proposal comes within current Government conservation policy, Nature Outlook. The Convention on Biological Diversity requires signatories to make active efforts to protect and manage their biological resources in-situ. The Peoples’ Republic of China is a signatory and the HKSAR Government should assist in these efforts. The zoning of the Headland as SSSI will protect the natural and human heritage of the SAR. 11.4 Active Conservation As Dudgeon and Corlett (1994: 174; and 2004: 294) concluded, the time for passive observation is past, and saving and restoring requires more than knowledge: now is the time for action. This Proposal is a partial response to that, and Government policy statements contained in the Green Challenge for the Community and as continued by Nature Outlook. It is hoped it will provide an example for other SSSI proposals, including the listing of potentially damaging operations, so other private sector proposals for Potential Conservation Areas can be prepared to enable areas to be conserved as part of a policy of strategic planning for conservation and as part of a policy for continually zoning and protecting whenever an appropriate chance appears. 11.5 Opportunities The Headland area proposed would make a unique SSSI possessing attributes of naturalness and rarity in the SAR and providing an opportunity for scientific studies and practical application at a convenient location. The Headland area originally was representative or typical of its kind as a headland but has exhibited a ‘textbook’ example of regeneration with passive conservation thereby
61 providing students and inspiring administrators with a working example of what such an area is capable of becoming when adequately protected. Whereas in Hong Kong many headlands are more typified now by insensitive overbuilt development crowded to achieve a sea view, this Headland represents a rare example of careful and appropriate land use compatible with its natural aspect, heritage value, and biological diversity. It meets all the evaluation criteria for an SSSI with true value and public interest.
- - - - - ‡‡ ‡‡ ‡‡ - - - - -
62 Part D - Endnotes
Acknowledgements Professor John Hodgkiss, Mr. Chan Shu Tong and friends in HKU, Professor S.Y.Hu and friends in CUHK, friends in DLO and AFCD and many other Departments; Ian Brownlee, Nicolas Ratcliffe, Raymond Yip, Dr. Patrick Hase, Edward Stokes, Graham Reels, David Melville, Cecily Law Chi Ling; many friends in KFBG especially Dr. Roger Kendrick, who formulated the structure, edited and finalised the content of the proposal, Professor Lawrence Lee, Dr. Lawrence Chau, Dr. Ng Sai Chit, Ken So, Dr. Gary Ades, Dr. Michael Lau, Michael Kilburn, and Paul Crow; and Richard Lewthwaite, Michael Chalmers, Martin Hale, Cheung Ho Fai and friends in the HKBWS; Alan Hay, Sir David Akers-Jones, Sir Anthony Galsworthy, Mo Yung Yuk Lin and many groups, persons and neighbours who have contributed, identified species, encouraged and inspired this work.
Signed by
Gloria Barretto, MBE,VMM, Karen Barretto
Leo Barretto Ruy Barretto SC
Dated this second day of July 2006
The information provided by the undersigned is, to the best of their knowledge, factually correct
Gary W.J. Ades Ph.D, Ng Sai Chit Ph.D.
Roger C. Kendrick Ph.D. Michael W.N. Lau Ph.D.
Michael Kilburn B.A. Richard Lewthwaite B.A.
63 12 REFERENCES
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64 Galsworthy, A.C., Kendrick, R.C., Sterling, M.J. & Yen, S.-H., in preparation. Check List of Species. In Kendrick, R.C. (editor), An Illustrated Guide to the Moths of Hong Kong. Hong Kong Lepidopterists’ Society, Tuen Mun, Hong Kong. c. 700 pp. Gibbs, L. 1927. Common Hong Kong Ferns. Kelly & Walsh, Hong Kong. 84 pp, 42 figs. Gibbs, L. 1932. Maps of Hong Kong. Hong Kong Naturalist 3: 116-119. Hanksi, I.A., 1999. Habitat connectivity, habitat diversity, and metapopulations in dynamic landscapes. Oikos 87: 209-219. Hanksi, I.A. & Gilpin, M.E., (eds.) 1997. Metapopulation Biology: Ecology, Genetics, and Evolution. HK Govt., 1958. Hong Kong Government Annual Report 1958. HK Govt., 1982. Hong Kong Government Annual Report 1982. Lancaster, R., 1989, Travels in China a Plantsman’s Paradise, Antique Collectors Club. Leven, M.R. & Carey, G.J., 1993. Systematic List. pp.14-74 in Carey, G.J. (ed.) Hong Kong Bird Report 1992, Hong Kong Bird Watching Society, Hong Kong. Karsen, S.J., Lau, M.W. & Bogadek, A., 1998. Hong Kong Amphibians and Reptiles, Second Edition. Provisional Urban Council, Hong Kong, 186 pp. Kendrick, R.C., 2002. Moths (Insecta: Lepidoptera) of Hong Kong. Unpublished Ph.D. thesis, The University of Hong Kong. xvi + 660 pp. Kadoorie Farm & Botanic Garden, 2001. Concept Paper on Hong Kong Government Conservation Review 2001. Kadoorie Farm & Botanic Garden, Tai Po, Hong Kong. Lam, C.Y. & Hong Kong Bird Watching Society, 2000. Bird Watching in Tai Po Kau. Cosmos Books, Hong Kong. 34 pp. Lau, M.W.N. & Dudgeon, D., 1999. Composition and distribution of Hong Kong amphibian fauna. Memoirs of the Hong Kong Natural History Society 22: 1-80. Leung, K.F., 2004. SSSI Series: Geology sites. Hong Kong Discovery 24: 78-81. Leung, K.F., 2004. SSSI Series: Geology sites (II). Hong Kong Discovery 25: 70-72. Martin, J.H., 2001. Description of an invasive new species of Neotropical aleurodicine whitefly (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae) – a case of complete or partial misidentification? Bulletein of Entomological Research 91: 101-107. Ng, S.-C., 2000. [untitled]; unpublished report on flora survey and findings of Tai Po Kau Lo Wai Headland. 11 pp. Nicholson, B., 1995? Tai Po Kau Nature Reserve – A History. Ecoschemes Asia Ltd., Wanchai, Hong Kong. Owen, J., 1991. The Ecology of the Garden. Cambridge University Press. 403 pp. Pace, R., 1998. Aleocharinae della Cina: Parte III (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae). Revue Suisse de Zoologie 105: 665-732. [in Italian] Paton D., 1985. R.O., The Life and Times Bishop R.O. Hall, Diocese of Hong Kong & Macau Association, Hong Kong. Planning Environment and Lands Branch, 1993. A Green Challenge for the Community, Government Secretariat, Hong Kong. Planning Environment Lands Branch, 1994. Technical Circular No.3/94 on Tree Preservation, 29th November 1994 Planning Department 1994, Hong Kong Planning Standards and Guidelines, Chapter 10, 1994 Edition, Conservation. Phillips, Robert J, 1990, Kowloon Canton Railway (British Section): A History, Urban Council Hong Kong. Ratcliffe, D.A. (ed.) 1977. A Nature Conservation Review. Cambridge Univsersity Press, Cambridge, England. So. S, 2004. SSSI: Saving Hong Kong’s special species. Hong Kong Discovery 23: 76-79. So, S. & Hung, S. 2004. Sites of Special Scientific Interest. Hong Kong Discovery 20: 46-53. Tam, N.F.Y. & Wong, Y.S., 2000. Hong Kong Mangroves. City University of Hong Kong Press, Hong Kong. x + 148 pp. Thrower, S. L. & Tang, H.C., 1976. Hong Kong Herbs & Vines. Hong Kong Governmnent Printer. 114pp.
65 United Nations, 1992, Convention on Biological Diversity. UN, Berne, Switzerland. URBIS Planning Design Group (HK) 1979, Tai Po Landscape and Recreation Study, Final Report January 1979 for NTDD. 196 pp with maps. Urban Services Department, 1976. Hong Kong Shrubs. Hong Kong Government Printer. 113pp. Walden, Beryl and Dr S.Y.Hu, 1977. Wild Flowers of Hong Kong Around the Year, Sino-American Publishing Walden, Beryl and Dr S.Y.Hu 1987. Wild Flowers of South China and Hong Kong, Part 2, All Noble Company Ltd. Walden, Beryl and Dr S.Y.Hu, 2000. Wild Flowers of Yunnan and Central China. Self published. Hong Kong. Walthew, G.F., 1996. Status and flight times of Hong Kong butterflies. Porcupine! 16: 34-37. Warner, J., 1976. Fragrant Harbour – Early Photographs of Hong Kong. John Warner Publications, Hong Kong. 192 pp. White, I.D., Mottershead, D.N. & Harrison, S.J., 1992. Environmental Systems – An Introductory Text (2nd edition). Chapman & Hall, London. 616 pp. Wilson, B., 2000, Hong Kong Then. Pentland Press. Wilson, D.E. & Cole, R., 2000. Common names of mammals of the world. Smithsonian Institution Press. Washington and London, 204 pp. Wilson, K.D.P., 1997. An annotated checklist of the Hong Kong dragonflies with recommendations for their conservation. Memoirs of the Hong Kong Natural History Society 21, 1-68. Wright-Nooth, George with Mark Adkin, 1994, Prisoner of the Turnip Heads, Leo Cooper. WWF, 1994. Outline Biodiversity Action Plan Proposal. World Wide Fund for Nature, Hong Kong. Works Branch, 1994. Technical Circular No.24/94. Hong Kong S.A.R. Govt.
66
Tai Po area, 1902
Plate 1
Gaston Pacros de Martin and Agnes de Martin, 1932.
The Lookout and Tai Po Kau 1950, aerial photograph by RAF, showing few trees in Tai Po Kau area. Photo supplied by Brian Wilson.
Plate 2
Heritage features, Island House, the old Tai Po Causeway, old ferry pier and Tai Po Kau Headland c.1905 from the Old Police Bungalow, Tai Po. A Century of New Territories Roads and Streets.
Tai Po Kau Headland 1956, from Tolo Ridge. Photo by Edgar Laufer.
Plate 3
Tai Po Kau Headland and Tai Po Kau Lo Wai 1954, from Rural Lodge (now Yin Tse Lane). Photo by Denis Palfreeman.
Girassol east facing hillside with grass and shrubs, c 1955.
Plate 5
Tai Po Causeway, looking to Tai Po Kau Headland and Ma On Shan, c. 1950
Tai Po Kau Headland, 1968
Plate 6
Tai Po Kau Headland, 1960 Tai Po Kau Headland and single track, 1976 Tolo Pond, 1960
Plate 7
Tai Po Kau Headland, aerial photos from 1986
Plate 8
The Lookout, June 2003. Photos by Edward Stokes.
White-bellied Sea Eagle, on dead trees and other large trees habitat near TPIL 12, 2003.
Pai Mun Shan and Little Egret Café, 2006
Plate 9
Tai Po Kau Headland and Tai Po Kau Lo Wai forest, June 2003.
.
Tai Po Kau Headland and old railway tunnel, June 2003.
Photos by Edward Stokes.
Plate 10
Constellation Cove under construction, Girassol Lane and relict woodland with vines near Lookout Link, March 2002. Savanna Gardens and Tolo Ridge, July 1999.
Girassol Lane, 2003. Large mature trees at junction of Girassol Lane and disused track, March 2003.
Plate 11
Pai Mun Shan and Lookout Link, with planted native trees, 2006 Tolo Pond Mangrove, 2006
Tolo Pond Mangrove at high tide, 2006 Tolo Pond Mangrove at low tide, 2006
Plate 12
Tall trees at junction of Girassol Lane Important line of Liquidambar formosana trees on and disused track, 2003. disused track with DLO warning sign, March 2003.
DLO Tai Po warning sign next to oak trees Woodland on Government land near track outside (Cyclobalanopsis edithae) on disused track, TPIL 12 together with large trees with numerous March 2003. Asplenium nidus March 2003.
Large and mature trees near TPIL 12, 2003. Giant Tree Y103 on Government Land near TPIL 12, January 1999.
Plate 13
Liquidamber formosana, large old specimen on disused Thick vine near disused track. AFD warning notice on disused track to track to TPIL 12 (April 2002). TPIL 12
Plate 14
Tai Po Kau Headland and Pai Mun Shan (Area 40) and Tai Po Kau Lo Wai, last green corridor with mature trees from the hills to the sea between Chinese University and Tai Po New Town, June 2002. Photo by Jean Wilson.
Tai Po Kau Valley and Headland before construction of Constellation Cove, 1995.
St. Christophers Home and previous Green Belt zone, 1991; now Deer Hill Bay CDA. Only Tai Po Kau Headland remains. reproduced from Above Hong Kong 1992, Pacific Century Publications Ltd., with kind permission
Plate 15
Woodland wildlife corridor to Pai Mun Shan (Area 40) and Special Area, with Lookout Link joining Tai Po Road before hillock was destroyed in 2001.
Wildlife corridor at junction of Lookout Link, Girassol Lane and Yau King Lane, March 2002.
Plate 16
Diplocisia glaucescens vine in flower, wildlife corridor Fruit of Diploclisia glaucescens July 1999. Lookout Link March 2002.
Liriope spicata, ground cover in flower. Liriope spicata ground cover with fruit.
Plate 17
Dendrophtoe pentandra, in flower, first record for Hong Kong, March 2001. Acorns of Cyclobalanopsis edithae, track to TPIL12, March 2002.
Desmos chinensis along Girassol Lane. Uvaria macrophylla (=U. microcarpa) along Lookout Link wildlife corridor.
Plate 18
Forest interior, August 1999. Forest interior showing forest structure, August 1999.
Forest interior, August 1999. External view of tall shrubland, August 1999. Photos by Chan Shu Tong Plate 19
Common Buzzard near Girassol, November 2003. Eye-browed Thrush Photo by Martin Hale
Fork-tailed Sunbird Hainan Blue Flycatcher male Photo by Martin Hale. Photo by Martin Hale.
Japanese White-eye
Photo by Martin Hale. White-bellied Sea Eagle on dead tree near TPIL 12, 2003.
Plate 20
Olive-backed Pipit Orange-bellied Leafbird Photo by Martin Hale. Photo by Martin Hale.
Ashy Drongo Crested Goshawk
Mature garden at Girassol 2003. Crested Goshawk chicks 1st July 2006
Plate 21
Oligodon formosanus, Taiwan Kukri Snake Girassol, June 2003.
Giant Glow Worm 30th August 1998, original specimen to AFCD.
Chiromantes haematocheir, Girassol, June 2003.
Giant Glow Worm predating snail 30th August 1998.
Hormurus (= Liocheles) australasiae, Scorpion, one of Chloritis hungarfordiana December 2001. few sites in Hong Kong.
Plate 22
Firefly Pyrocoelia sp. nr. praetexta
Firefly larva, Stenocladius sp. Drapetodes mitaria
Hong Kong endemic moth Ugia purpurea Hong Kong endemic moth Sigilliclystis kendricki Photos by Roger Kendrick
Plate 23 13 APPENDICES
13 APPENDICES...... 67
13.1 FUNGI ...... 67 13.2 MAMMALS...... 68 13.3 CRUSTACEA...... 69 13.4 BIRDS ...... 70 13.5 HERPETOFAUNA ...... 93 13.6 INSECTS ...... 96 13.6.1 Beetles...... 96 13.6.2 Ants, Wasps & Bees...... 97 13.6.3 Crickets, Mole Crickets, Grashoppers & Katydids...... 98 13.6.4 Dragonflies...... 98 13.6.5 Butterflies & Moths...... 99 13.6.6 Flies...... 110 13.6.7 Bugs (Hemiptera)...... 111 13.6.7.1 Heteroptera...... 111 13.6.7.2 Homoptera ...... 111 13.6.8 Other Invertebrate Orders...... 112 13.7 VASCULAR PLANTS...... 113 13.8 LETTERS OF SUPPORT...... 121
Species Lists For all flora and fauna, the status for species listed by Fellows et al. (2002) is indicated by square brackets – [LC] is a species of concern in Hong Kong, [RC] for southern China and [GC] indicates species of global concern. Note that due to insufficient recording in South China, many of the moth species’ distributions are very imperfectly known and many are listed as [LC] purely as a cautionary measure – these species probably merit classification in [GC] as they are thought to be restricted to Hong Kong. The letter P indicates a provisional classification within this system.
13.1 FUNGI records by G. Barretto; determinations by Prof. Huang *, G. Barretto Species Date Number Habitat Lysurus mokusii Jul – Sep 2000 1 garden sp. nr. Pleurotus flexilis --- c. 20 woodland (dead branch) Cephalothecium roseum * ------Schizophyllum commune * ------Lycoperdon maximum Aug 2000 1 woodland
67 13.2 MAMMALS 17 Species recorded. ([Status] follows Fellowes, J.R. et al.,2000). PRC= Potential Regional Concern; RC= Regional Concern; LC=Local Concern; Global Status IUCN, LR=Lower Risk and V=Vulnerable. Nomenclature for mammals follows Wilson, D.E. & Cole (2000). Records by Karen, Ruy & Gloria Barretto (KB,RB,GB), John Woods (JW), Melanda Digma (MD), Roberto Digma (RD), Nick Lee (NL), Elmien Kempis (EK), Susan Matson (SM), Gary Ades (GA). * determination by G. Ades. Key to table: CP: Casa Pequena; TPIL 12: Tai Po Inland Lot 12; CO: Casa Orquidia; GL: Girassol Lane
Scientific Name TPK Headland Status Comment Common Name Status Has been seen and heard along GL in the past; roadkill in vicinity: 1971: 11th March: male seen by garage of Girassol (GB). Muntiacus muntjak 2002: 18th April one individual grazing opposite Lookout Link entrance (Photo:J Woods). 6 records [PRC] Indian Muntjac 2004: 23rd March one sighted along GL. 2005: 14th February, one at Lookout Link (EK). 2006: 7th February, one heard below garage of Girassol (KB). Numerous unrecorded sightings on GL, access track to TPIL 12 and adjoining wooded slopes and gardens of Girassol, CP and CO: 1980's: at 8pm an adult and piglets in CO garden (SM). 1996: 2nd November 10.30pm one adult individual. Present 1997: 12th October 5.30pm one adult individual along TPIL 12 access track. rd th Sus scrofa annually 2001: 3 October 7:30pm one adult on steep road; 26 November pet dog gored by boar
and at edge of CP. Wild Boar st th breeding 2002: 21 February one adult seen above parking area; 26 February one pregnant? adult on steep road; 9th April 6:30pm one at CP (KB); 1st September 8pm two large adults (one individual 36 inch at shoulder) CP garden (photos) (RB). 2003 – 04: December through January, the vegetable garden and garden were extensively dug by wild boar. 2004: 8th December, a singleton in Girassol Garden (KB). Manis pentadactyla Formerly [RC] Nest hole seen & scrapings; one corpse found (G.Ades, pers. comm.). Chinese Pangolin present LR (IUCN) Recent increase – individuals or very small groups come into the area on foraging forays or fruit raiding parties: 1999: 3rd May one individual at the top of GL; 1st July one disabled individual; 17th July two Macaca fascicularis Present all eating Longans at CO. year Long-tailed Macaque 2005: 9th July, one at CP (RB); 7th October, 10 (6 small juveniles) in Area 40 (RB); 19th October, large male and juveniles at Lookout Link (RB). 2006: 31st May two on GL, eating Syzygium jambos fruit (RB). Roadkills have been collected in the vicinity in the past though dates not generally recorded; all sightings of living individuals listed below: Prionailurus bengalensis Sighted 1970: 18th and 27th November: sighting of individuals on GL (GB). and 1987: 10th May 9:30am: Female and two cubs (KB, RB). Chinese Leopard Cat breeding 1996: 11th June 8am: one adult individual near Casuarina tree on GL (KB). 2002: 21st February 9pm young adult on steep road along GL (RB, KB). th Melogale moschata 1975: 28 August: juvenile on GL (GB). Present Date not recorded: corpse (photographed) found in Girassol garden – may have been Chinese Ferret-Badger killed by pet dogs (KB, RB, GB). 1996: October, a roadkill found in vicinity, corpse collected (photo) and sent to KFBG (KB, RB). Paguma larvata Present [RC] 2005: 23rd April, 21:00; a pair seen on steep section of GL by Kempis family. One of the Masked Palm Civet pair was carrying a rat. 2006: 1st May, one killed near Lookout Link on Tai Po Road; 30th May, one at CP (EK). Viverricula indica 2000 [LC] : December, a roadkill found in the vicinity, corpse collected (photo) and sent to Small Indian (Seven- Present KFBG (KB, RB). banded) Civet Viverra zibetha Formerly (considered 1970: 4th May, 08:45. A civet observed briefly on GL, with notes and description that Large Indian Civet present ? extinct in HK) could be this species (GB). Niviventer fulvescens Present all Common, Occasionally these were found killed by pet cats, though no dates were recorded. Chestnut Spiny Rat year non-urban
68 Scientific Name TPK Headland Status Comment Common Name Status In the 1970s and 1980s there were occasional sightings along GL but the dates for these were not recorded; usually from one to five individuals: 1993: 18th October 9pm two adults and one juvenile on upper GL at the slope near the Eucalyptus tree (KB, RB). 1998: 17th July 9pm one adult on lower GL (KB, RB); 23rd October 8:15pm one individual on upper GL at the steep point (KB, RB). 2001: 16th February 11pm an adult along lower GL; 3rd October one seen during the day- time; 4th November one along GL - papaya trees were eaten a few days before in the vicinity and foot-prints were seen nearby; 10th November 8pm one large adult on steep part of GL; 25th November 10pm two adults and one juvenile seen along GL at the slope below newspaper box; 5th December one seen along GL and signs of ginger root eaten in Present garden. Hystrix brachyura [PRC] th th and 2002: 9 January 11pm heard and saw one adult in bamboo thicket of CP; 27 January Malayan Porcupine VU (IUCN) several quills at several places along TPIL 12 track and noted stems of Alocasia eaten; 16th breeding February 11pm one adult along GL (NL); 28th August midnight two adults along GL (RB). 2003: 5th February one on GL (MD); 11th September 9pm, garage area, a small individual ran up the steps towards CP (RB); 13th September 9pm two along GL (RB, KB, RWL); 29th September 9:45pm one along GL (RB); 14th October one along GL, (RD). 2004: 22nd Jan, two seen at CP (RB); 27th Jan, a juvenile seen at CP (RB); 27th March on GL (RWL); 3rd May, two large individuals seen c. 22:30 on GL (RB); 20th November, two juveniles on GL (RB & KB); 24th November, two individuals on GL (KB). 2005: 9th January, on large adult at CP, 11pm (RB); quill found on 6th February, CO (RB); 14th February, two at CP (RB); 27th September, one at GL (RB); 6th October, three, inc. one juvenile at GL (RB); 9th October, three at GL (EK); 14th October, one on GL (RB); 22nd & 27th October, one on GL (EK); 15th November, one on GL (RB); 20th November, three on GL at 7:30pm, including one juvenile (RB); two on 24th December at 23:30 on GL. Only become apparent in recent years. Not all sightings recorded, never very numerous: Callosciurus flavimanus styani Present all 1999: 3rd May one individual along TPIL 12 access track.
Pallas’s Squirrel year 2003: 12th September one seen below pool in Girassol garden (RB); 19th October two individuals at CO garden (EK). Crocidura attenuata Present all Occasionally seen and heard and caught by pet cats over past years; the only confirmed Common Woodland Shrew year date is for a specimen determined by J.D.Romer, collected on 23rd July 1968. Rhinolophus pusillus Rare (Ades, 1999:1st December one adult found in house at Girassol – brought indoors by pet cat Present Least Horseshoe Bat 1999); [PRC] (GB). G Ades identified the specimen.
Hipposideros pomona sinensis Present all Roosting in the abandoned house at TPIL12. Also seen feeding close to TPIL12 track [LC] Bicoloured leaf-nosed bat year (GA). Rhinolophus sp. Droppings present in abandoned house on Headland. Probably the Rufous Horseshoe Present Horseshoe bat species Bat, which is widespread in Hong Kong. Seen frequently and roosted in palm tree in CP garden until palm destroyed in a typhoon: Cynopterus sphinx Present all Wide-spread 2001 rd Murraya paniculata year : 23 June 11:30pm: four to five individuals circling around which Dog-faced Fruit Bat was in flower. Pipistrellus abramus present all Regular sightings of small bats have been made on the Headland, thought to be this Common species. One individual found dead in CP on 18th October 2004 was confirmed (G.Ades, Japanese Pipistrelle year pers. comm.) to be this species.
13.3 CRUSTACEA TPK Scientific Name Headland HK Status Comment Common Name Status Potamon anacoluthon Present all Over previous years individuals occasionally appear in the drains and moist areas near the
Mountain Freshwater Crab year dwellings though no dates have been recorded for these. Potamon hongkongensis Present all Over previous years individuals occasionally appear in the drains and moist areas near the Hong Kong Freshwater common year dwellings though no dates have been recorded for these. Crab Usually 2003: 25th June 9:45am one large individual near Girassol verandah (Photo taken) (RB). Chiromantes haematocheir Two records inhabits 2005: 20th June, one on GL (RB). mangroves. Unidentified red crab ~45 One record unknown 2006: 6th May, one caught at Girassol (GB); photographed and released (RB). mm shell width
69 13.4 BIRDS HK Status follows The Avifauna of Hong Kong (2001) ed. C.J. Carey, HKBWS. TPK Headland Status determination by Richard Lewthwaite (RWL). 142 species (comprised of 124 Category A species, five Category C species, four Category D species, three Category E species, and two Category A species-pairs); Observations by Ruy Barretto (RB), Karen Barretto (KB) and Gloria Barretto (GB), Mike Chalmers (MC), Melanie Digma (MD), Roberto Digma (RD), Martin Hale (MH), Roger Kendrick (RCK), Mike Kilburn (MK), Kwan Tai-mun (KTM); Nick Lee (NL), Richard Lewthwaite (RWL). Key to table: CP: Casa Pequena; TPIL 12: Tai Po Inland Lot 12; CO: Casa Orquidia; GL: Girassol Lane Systematic Survey (marked SS in the Habitat/Notes entries) from March 2002 to February 2003: data from Mike Kilburn.
HKBWS TPK Headland sp. no. & Cat HK Status Habitat / Notes Status Species 014 A Abundant winter Ardea cinerea One record visitor, occasional 2006: 22 March, one flying low over TPIL 12 (KB). Grey Heron breeding records Common to 016 A Two records, but abundant, breeding 2002: 3rd November; 10 in outer Tolo Pond (RB). present all year in Egretta alba resident, present all th Tolo Ponds 2005: 27 November, four flying low over Girassol (RB). Great Egret year. 17 A Common passage migrant through 2006: 19th March, three seen feeding on Tolo Pond (RK & RB), plus a further Two records Egretta intermedia Deep Bay, scarce in individual seen shortly thereafter flying over Girassol (GB & RK). Internediate Egret summer and winter. 2002: 3rd November; 140 in outer Tolo Pond (RB). 018 A Population of c. 50 Abundant and 2003: 13th September; 50 in V-formation flying low to the east over the Headland. birds, mostly in Tolo Egretta garzetta present all year. (RB). Pond Mangrove. Little Egret 2006: 14th January, four seen feeding on Tolo Pond (RB) Primarily a species of Uncommon to 021 A fish pond edges, common all year 1996: three in breeding plumage along GL on 13th July and four in trees of CP on there are two round; migrants Bubulcus ibis 21st July (RB) Cattle Egret records, both in July occur during spring 1996. & autumn. [LC] 022 A Common & present This wetland species all year; with Occasionally seen in gardens of CP & Girassol, but dates not recorded: Ardeola bacchus has been occasionally undetermined th Chinese Pond sighted. 2005: 8 July, one at CP (RB). Heron migratory element. 023 A Present all year, Two records from locally uncommon in 2006: 14th January, two seen in Tolo Pond Mangrove (RB); 25th April, one in Tolo Butorides striatus Tolo Pond summer, scarce in Pond and stream (GH, RB & KB). Striated Heron winter. 024 A Another wetland Common to Occasionally seen in gardens of CP & Girassol, but dates not recorded. Nycticorax nycticorax species with abundant resident & th Black-crowned occasional sightings. winter visitor. [LC] 2006: 25 April, one in Tolo Pond (GH, RB & KB). Night Heron 063 A This fish-eating Locally common raptor of estuaries & winter visitor with 2000: one in dead trees at TPIL 12 during 19th-21st November (KB, RB). Pandion haliaetus the coast has been occasional summer Osprey recorded once. records. [RC] First recorded in August 1994, with further sightings in th Uncommon passage 1994: four in dead tree at Girassol, 29 August KB, RB, GB). 064 A spring or summer of migrant & scarce 1996: two feeding on mantises in dead tree at Girassol on 28th April (KB, RB, GB) 1996 and 1998. This Aviceda leuphotes summer visitor; has and two circling over the Headland on 5th May (KB, RB). species is undergoing a Black Baza greatly increased. th range extension in 1998: two on 11 July. China, and is attracted to woodland.
70 HKBWS TPK Headland sp. no. & Cat HK Status Habitat / Notes Status Species Frequently seen, but dates seldom recorded: 2000: December to February, a pair perching in, and hunting from, dead trees at TPIL 12. 2003: one on dead trees at TPIL 12 on 12th October (RB); a juvenile on 25th October (RB) and a pair on 9th November (RB). 2004: 2nd May, 22nd October & 25th November – one using a dead tree at TPIL 12 (RB); 31st October, two individuals, one a juvenile (RB); 8th September, a juvenile Abundant winter “mobbing” guests at Girassol (!) – it was thought this bird may have been the same visitor, with a as one released at KFBG the previous day. 067 A significant non- Recorded breeding pop & 2005: 1st January, two at Girassol (RB); 6th March, two at CP (RB); 16th & 17th July, two Milvus migrans throughout the year. smaller numbers of at CP (RB); 20th July, two with prey item over GL (RB); 25th September, five at TPIL12 Black Kite breeding birds; (RB); 4th October, one on GL (KB); 9th October, one on GL (RB); 11th October, two at migrants probably TPIL12 (RB); 23rd October, five flying around Girassol (RB), 28th October, one at also occur. [RC] TPIL12 (RB); 13th November, two at TPIL12 (RB); 27th November, one at TPIL12 (RB). 2006: 31st January, one on GL (RB); 5th February, one on GL (RB); 6th February, one at CP (KB); 22nd March, one overhead at Girassol (KB) 27th March, one over GL (KB); 31st March, one with prey, over Headland (KB); 20th April, one over GL (KB); 24th April, one over Girassol (KB); 14th May, two overhead on the Headland (RB); 17th June, one adult & one juvenile flying around the Headland (RB). SS: 16 records throughout the year, max three on 26th March. 1996: one flying low over CP on 15th July. 1999: an adult circling CP and perching in dead tree at TPIL 12 on 25th September; an adult and juvenile flying low over the Headland on 10th December. 2000: one flying low over CP on 9th October. 2001: an adult and juvenile circling and calling overhead "kak, kak" on 9th and 12th May about 8am over a duration of 15 minutes; again on 4th June an adult and juvenile calling & circling over CP and perching on trees at TPIL 12; a juvenile perched on trees at TPIL 12 on 17th June; a wet juvenile perched on trees at TPIL 12 on 24th June; adult birds seen overhead on 21st July and 28th September. 2002: a juvenile flying low over the Lookout on 6th March; an adult circling above Girassol on 7th April (RB); two flying overhead and perching at TPIL 12 on 3rd November (RB). 069 A Uncommon resident A coastal species nd Haliaeetus leucogaster in coastal areas & 2003: an adult and a juvenile circling low over the Headland on 2 September, one recorded throughout rd th offshore islands. day following Typhoon ‘Dujuan’ (RB); Between 3 and 10 September seen White-bellied Sea the year. [RC] overhead often (RB); two adults circling, calling and on dead tree at TPIL 12 (photo Eagle taken) and being harassed by four Large-billed Crows & six Hair-crested Drongos on 12th September (RB); one perched at TPIL 12 and overhead on 13th September (RB); two circling low over the Headland on 17th September (RB); one eating fish on dead tree at TPIL 12 on 1st October, 9am (RB). 2004: 4th April (RB). 2005: 21st February, one at TPIL12 with large fish (RB); 8th July, one (probable immature bird) flew from Area 40 to Headland (07:00) (RB); 17th July, two circling low over Girassol (RB); 19th July, at TPIL12, then over Headland, then over water to Island House, then to Tai Po Kau; 19th December, one low over CP (RB). 2006: 22nd January, one around Headland, with prey (RB); 31st January, one juvenile at GL (RB); 17th April, one adult over Girassol garden (KB); 6th May, one adult low over the Headland (RB);16th May, one low overhead of Girassol (RB). 1996: a pair seen low overhead CP on 12th, 13th and 15th July. 1997: one individual foraging along GL on 5th September. 1999: an adult and juvenile circling low and perching on trees at TPIL 12 (Photo, NL) on 3rd January; two adults seen overhead on 23rd and 30th May. A hill-forest species 2000: an individual feeding along upper GL and rose from ground at 7am on 17th first recorded in October (RB). 1996. Since then, 1-2 th Uncommon resident, 2001: one over the Headland on 17 June; one foraging along lower GL at 8am on 071 A birds recorded nearly th th probably also 25 August; one circling low in the valley below CP on 14 October. annually and in all Spilornis cheela passage migrant; has 2002: one was circling very low above the Headland on 1st May (RB). seasons, an increase Crested Serpent increased since th very likely 2003: a juvenile circling over Girassol on 13 July (RB). Eagle 1958.[LC] attributable to 2004: 4th April (RB); 3rd June, perching and foraging on GL (KB), again on 28th maturing woodland September (RB & RD) and on 10th October (RD & GB). on the Headland. 2005: 11th October, one at GL (on ground!) (RB); 19th November, one foraging low at GL (KB). 2006: 7th May, one heard overhead above CP (RB & KB) SS: four records in May, September (twice) and December 2002. Display flight noted on 1st May.
71 HKBWS TPK Headland sp. no. & Cat HK Status Habitat / Notes Status Species 1996: one in tree outside CP on 21st July; Caged Black-collared Starling seen being attacked on 22nd July. 1997: one in tree outside CP (Photo) in December (KB). 1999: one of a pair being harassed by Hair-crested Drongos on 13th June; pair attacking juvenile Blue Magpie on 21st August. 2000: one flying low over CP on 7th February (RB); one flying in valley below CP on 27th August (RB). 2001: one in Casuarina near garage on 2nd August. 2002: one below CO, diving down towards track to TPIL 12 on 18th February; one in tree between CP & CO for 30 minutes on 9th March; one seen along GL on 31st March (RB) and 22nd April (KB); an adult with juvenile seen along GL and overhead on 14th July (RB); one on eastern side of hill at Girassol on 8th September This forest- (RWL); two along GL on 13th October (RB). dependent raptor 2003: one seen at TPIL 12 on 4th February (RB); an adult male along GL on 30th was first recorded in March (RB, RWL); one overhead at Girassol and the garage area on 6th April (RB); 075 A 1996. Subsequently one seen near Lookout on 3rd July (RB); one juvenile perched along GL on tree recorded nearly st Uncommon resident. over track to TPIL 12 on 1 October (RB). Accipiter trivirgatus annually & in all 2004: 28th January (RB); 4th April (RB); 11th & 17th April, GL (RB); 16th April, being Crested Goshawk seasons; possibly mobbed by swifts (RB); 19th September, two, including one juvenile, at Girassol breeding. Its increase (RB); 19th October – one chasing a Crested Serpent Eagle at GL (RD); 30th can be attributed to October at CP (RB); 9th December at GL (RB). maturing woodland. 2005: 12th June, one at CP (RB); 2nd July, one juvenile seen following track from GL to TPIL12 (RB); 17th July, tail feather found at CP (RB); 24th July, one juvenile on GL (RB) (photographed); 16th September, on at GL (RB); 4th October, one at GL (KB); 28th October & 6th November at CP (RB). 2006: 6th February, pair building a nest at GL (RB, KB); 27th March, one perched in a tree near garage at end of GL (KB); 28th April, one flying along GL (KB); 13th May, one seen approaching nest between Girassol and TPIL12 (RB); 14th May, two seen overhead at Girassol (RB); 31st May, sitting in nest (as 13th May); 10th June, seen still on nest and pair flying around the Headland (RB); 18th June, two downy chicks observed (RB); 24th June, nestlings doubled in size, down being shed (RB); 9th July, adult observed feeding a 60cm long light brown snake to the fledgelings. SS: nine records in three periods: late March-early April, late April – end May, and late Oct – late November 2002. Display flight noted on 30th April. 077 A Uncommon passage One record in migrant with Accipiter gularis SS: One record 28th October. Japanese autumn. occasional winter Sparrowhawk records. 1989: 28th October, juvenile female captured when it accidentally flew into the house Scarce resident, 078 A Three confirmed (Girassol) and then released. See account in HKBRs 1989 p.142 & 1994 p.166. possibly with records: April & 2004: possible Besra attacking small bird at CP (RB) on 31st March. Accipiter virgatus increased numbers in October. th Besra autumn. 2006: 9 March, one in Girassol garden (RB). SS: two records 1st and 14th April. 2002: one in tree on 20th February near TPIL 12. (RB, RWL); One bird on 6th March circling along GL and hillside below (KB, RB). 2003: one in tree at Girassol for 30 minutes on 10th November (photographed KB) 080 A Common winter and remained in the area for two weeks afterwards. 11 records: October- visitor & scarce 2005: 1st January, one at Girassol (RB); 27th February & 3rd March, one at CP (RB); Buteo buteo March. Common Buzzard passage migrant. 15th October, one at Girassol (RB). 2006: 4th February, one at CP (RB). SS: four records, one in early spring on 26th March and once monthly in November, December 2002 and January 2003. 085 A Common autumn One record in migrant & less 2003: above GL on 25th October, (RWL). Falco tinnunculus October. common winter Common Kestrel visitor. 2000: immature on tree at TPIL 12, diving into woodland on 17th December (RB). 087 A Seven recent Scarce resident & 2001: 20th, 28th & 29th January seen again (KB, RB); 24th February seen; 22nd sightings, all Falco peregrinus winter visitor. [LC] March: 9am flew over CP towards TPIL 12 (RB). December-March. Peregrine Falcon 2002: on dead tree at TPIL 12 on 13th March (RB). 088 A Common resident; prefers grassy slopes Occasionally seen & heard on the TPK Headland many years ago but not recently Formerly present Francolinus pintadeanus and open pine due to habitat maturation (RB). Chinese Francolin woodland.
72 HKBWS TPK Headland sp. no. & Cat HK Status Habitat / Notes Status Species Precise status uncertain though 095 A probably locally Two records: April 2002: 16th June calling in bamboo scrubland above GL, (tape-recording, RB); Rallina eurizonoides common summer & June. SS: migrant roosting in tree 17th April. Slaty-legged Crake visitor & rare winter visitor & passage migrant. 101 A Occasionally seen in garden of Girassol but dates not recorded: Occasional sightings 1980s: bird calling on the garden pergola, Girassol (KB, RB). Amaurornis phoenicuris Common resident. White-breasted up to 1999. 1996: 26th April, breeding and chicks observed, Tolo Pond (RWL). Waterhen 1999: 1st August heard calling near CP. 105 A Hydrophasianus Scarce passage 1992: 26th May, one record at Tolo Pond (Tai Po Kau village) (Leven & Carey, Two records, March migrant, former 1993) chirurgus & May Pheasant-tailed breeding resident 2004: one record of a wing and leg of a dead bird at GL (RWL) on 14th March. Jacana 136 A Common passage migrant and winter 2006: 14th January, three at Tolo Pnd (RB). April 25th, one on Tolo Pond (GH, RB Present at Tolo Pond Actitis hypoleucos visitor, scarce in & KB). Common Sandpiper summer. 141 A Scarce winter visitor One record in to wooded areas, 2002: one along GL on 30th October at 6:45am (KB, RB). Scolopax rusticola October. probably with some 2005: 13th October, one on GL (RB). Eurasian Woodcock passage migrants. 191 D Locally common Occasionally seen in gardens of CP & Girassol and along the entrance to GL but Columba livia Formerly present. residen; typically an dates not recorded; has declined as the habitat on the Headland has matured: Rock Dove urban species 1985: numerous seen 29th December (KB, RB). Occasionally seen in trees at the edge of the woodland but dates not recorded: 192A Common winter visitor & passage 1970: 1st January, one at Girassol (RB). Streptopelia orientalis Occasionally sighted. migrant, with 1985: four on 29th December (KB, RB). Oriental Turtle isolated summer 2004: ten on 28th March at TPIL12 (RB), through to 2nd April. Dove records. 2005: 23rd November, ten at GL (RB); 27th November, six at CP (RB). 1970 1st January, four at Girassol (RB). 1984: CP garden & for several days beforehand, 21st January (KB); Regularly seen 194 A Recorded but no records kept. Streptopelia chinensis throughout the year; Abundant resident. 1985: numerous seen 29th December (KB, RB). Spotted Dove presumably breeds. 2005: 27th December, two at CP (RB). 2006: 25th April, one on the Headland (KB); 14th May, a pair at Girassol (RB). SS: 91 bird days throughout study period. Max 14 on 16th November. 195 A Two records, 1960: “near Tai Po Kau” on 24th January (Carey et al., 2001). Macropygia unchall 1st & 4th Hong Four records th Barred Cuckoo Kong records 2006: 25 April, perched in a Delonix regia tree, in the garden of CP (KB). Dove Though dates were not recorded there there were many sightings along GL of solitary birds and occasionally a pair, upto 1995. Only once sighted since GL was up-graded: 1967: 25th, 31st January & 4th March, three, two and one birds respectively (GB); 21st July, one seen with twig in beak (GB & Miss Adamson). 196 A Has unaccountably Scarce but 1968: 22nd April, one pair seen at Girassol (GB). Chalcophaps indica declined. widespread resident. 1980s: a bird accidentally flew into Girassol. It was caught and released.
Emerald Dove 1990: two were seen along the track leading to TPIL 12 on 7th June (KB). 1995: one found dead next to the house at Girassol from an apparent window collision in winter (RD). 2005: 16th April, one on GL (KB). 1982: first sighted at Girassol on 9th May – notified HKBWS (KB, RB). Uncommon summer 1985: call heard below CP from 7pm 5th May (KB, RB). visitor & passage 1991 th Following first migrant; greatly : call heard for the first time this year on 10 April. th 201 A records in 1982 and increased since the 1992: call heard for the first time this year on 24 April. 1985, 1-2 recorded 1980s. 1997: one seen 6th July. Clamator coromandus during April-July in This parasitic cuckoo 1999: one seen near CP on 10th and 22nd May. Chestnut-winged most years 1991- has increased, 2000: heard 22nd May and 11th June. Cuckoo 2003. Very likely presumably in 2001 th th th breeds. tandem with its host : heard 29 April and 13 May below CP and in Girassol garden 15 June. Greater Necklaced 2002: started calling near CP on 11th April (KB), one heard on 17th April (RWL) Laughing-thrush. and heard again on 20th April (RB); Two were heard along GL and near garage area on 30th April (RB).
73 HKBWS TPK Headland sp. no. & Cat HK Status Habitat / Notes Status Species 2003: heard along GL and near the Lookout on 5th and 6th April (RB); 2004: 20th April, one heard on Headland (RB), again at GL on 2nd May (RB); calling 201 A every evening from 12th May through 1st June (RB). Clamator coromandus 2005: 22nd April, one at CP (RB). Chestnut-winged 2006: 25th April, one heard on the Headland (RB); 30th April, one heard on GL (RB, Cuckoo KB); 2nd & 3rd May, one heard on eastern side of Headland (KB); 6th May, one heard (entry continued) at CP (RB, KB); 7th May, one heard at TPIL12, a second seen on GL (RB); 13th & 14th May, one at CP (RB); 22nd & 27th May, one calling at night, Girassol (RB). SS: 4 bird days: one each 26th and 30th April and vocal pair 27th April. Heard every year and sometimes seen though few dates recorded: 1992: heard for first time this year on 8th April. 2000: heard throughout May. 2001: heard on 16th and 18th March. Common summer 202 A 2002: seen in banyan tree of CP garden on 13th April (RB) and then along GL on Regularly recorded visitor & passage Heirococcyx 14th April (RB). March-May. Very migrant; greatly sparverioides likely breeds. increased since the 2003: heard at Girassol on 17th March and seen at CP on 12th April (RB). Large Hawk Cuckoo 1970s. 2004: one heard at CP on 5th April (RB) and again on 18th April, 2nd May. 2006: 18th March, one heard in early morning on Headland (RB, KB), at least one bird calling thereafter to 4th April. 5th April, two birds heard, one on GL and one at CP (KB) and thereafter to 6th May one or two birds present (RB, KB). SS: seven records from 1st April to 27th May. 204 A Locally common Heard most years and occasionally seen but no formal records of dates kept: Cuculus micropterus Occasionally heard. summer visitor. 2004: one heard on GL on 2nd May (RB). Indian Cuckoo 205 A Scarce passage One record in April. SS: One record 17th April. Cuculus orientalis migrant. Oriental Cuckoo 2000: heard in May. 2001: heard close to CP on 18th March and 6th May. 2002: seen and heard along GL on 31st March (RB). Uncommon summer 207 A 1-2 recorded in 2003: seen at CP in Banyan tree on 12th April and near CP on 11th May (RB). visitor with spring each year th nd Cacomantis merulinus occasional autumn & 2004: 5 April, one heard at CP (RB); again on 2 May. since 2000. Plaintive Cuckoo winter records. 2005: 6th May, one at TPIL12 (KB). 2006: 28th March, two heard, one on GL and one at CP (KB); 4th & 5th April, one heard at CP (KB); 9th April, one heard at TPIL12 (RB); 6th May, one heard on GL (RB). SS: 12 bird days between March and the end of May 2002. Heard annually, but dates not noted: 2000: heard in May. 2002: started calling at CP on 3rd March; seen & heard CP on 14th April (RB). 208 A Recorded in March- Present all year, 2003: seen CP on 2nd March (RB). Eudynamys scolopacea May each year. Very abundant in summer, 2004: 17th April, heard on Headland (RB). Common Koel likely breeds. scarce in winter. 2005: 30th April, one at CP (RB). 2006: 1st April, one heard on GL (RB); 12th April, one heard at CP (KB). SS: 13 bird days from late March to late May 2002. Heard at times, no formal records kept: 209 A Infrequently 1999: two on GL on 11th May. Centropus sinensis recorded throughout Common resident. 2006: 1st April, one heard below GL (RB). Greater Coucal the year. SS: eight bird days. One to three between 17th April and 26th June, one on 15th January. 1991: bird caught in CP, photographed & released on 8th October 8.30pm (KB, RB). 1994: heard near CP on 30th January. 1997: heard on 21st September. 2001: heard on slopes of CP from 10:45pm on 20th February; heard outside CP from 2am on 8th October; along GL at 8.30 pm on 21st February. 2002: heard 4:00am from CP on 22nd January; 23 & 24.1.02 Heard near CP from 213 A 7:30pm onwards on 23rd and 24th January; heard CP on 14th October. Occasionally Common & Otus bakkamoena th recorded. widespread resident. 2003: 8pm heard from CP on 4 April, (KB); main feathers of carcass found along Collared Scops Owl GL on 8th May, identified by Dr Gary Ades. 2004: 28th January at GL (RB) and 10th February at CP (RB); one on 4th August at CP (RB); one seen on GL at 23:00 on 29th October along GL (RB). 2005: 13th September, one on GL (RB); 8th November, one at GL (RB); 24th December, one heard at CP (RB); one heard at CP on 31st December (RB). 2006: 3rd January, one heard at 06:00 and 23:00 at CP (RB); 27th January, one heard at CP (RB); 26th April, one heard on GL (RB); 6th May, one heard on GL (RCK).
74 HKBWS TPK Headland sp. no. & Cat HK Status Habitat / Notes Status Species 216 A Recorded in 1980s Uncommon resident, Early 1980's: caught inside Girassol house & released (KB, RB, GB); Bred at including breeding, reports have greatly Glaucidium cuculoides Cathay bungalow in the late 1980s (RWL). Asian Barred Owlet but not since then. increased since 1988. Grey: scarce passage migrant & summer 219A &/or 220 A Occasional sightings, dates not formally recorded, along GL in previous years Unidentified visitor. though not recently: Caprimulgus . nightjars occasionally Savanna: uncommon sp 1997: seen at 9:30pm on 16th September along GL, at crest of hill, (RB). Habitat Nightjar sp. sighted. resident; autumn & winter movements strongly suggests Grey Nightjar (RWL) may occur. Common spring 225 A migrant, localised 2006: 25th April, two in a flock of Little Swift, overhead above the Headland (GH, One record summer visitor, Apus pacificus RB, KB). Pacific Swift irregular autumn and winter visitor 2002: numerous above hilltop on 6th March. 2004: 15+ above Headland on 17th April; numberous on 2nd May. 2005: 18th July, two over Girassol (RB); 23rd October, six at Girassol (RB). 226 A Only recorded Abundant spring 2006: 14th January, 20 flying around over Girassol (RB); 24th March, two; 28th Apus affinis during March-July migrant & locally March, five; 30th March, two; 31st March, five, all over the Headland (KB); 8th Little Swift 2002. common resident. April, three over the Headland (RB, KB); 17th to 24th April, between two and four seen daily over the Headland (KB); 25th April, 23 seen overhead above the Headland (GH, RB, KB). SS: 36 bird days between early March and end July. Common & 229 A Occasionally sighted widespread passage Occasional sightings in the past but dates not recorded. Not sighted in recent in the past, but no migrant & winter Alcedo atthis years. Common Kingfisher recent records. visitor, uncommon in summer. 230 A Occasionally Resident, locally Occasional sightings in the past but dates not formally recorded: Halcyon smyrnensis recorded; breeding in common in autumn 1980s: breeding in holes in earth banks along upper GL. White-throated 1980s. & winter. [LC] 2000: at TPIL 12, one calling on 17th and 18th August. Kingfisher 231 A Locally common winter visitor & Occasional sightings but not formally recorded: Occasionally Halcyon pileata passage migrant with 1985: one on 29th December (KB, RB). Black-capped recorded. occasional summer 1996: 27th May, one at Tolo Pond (RWL). Kingfisher records. [LC] 235 A Uncommon passage One autumn record. 2005: 17th to 19th September, one juvenile at TPIL12 (photographed) (RB). Eurystomus orientalis migrant Dollarbird 1985: one seen on 29th December (KB, RB). 2000: two birds near TPIL 12 on 27th August. 2001 th Locally common : calling & seen in front of CP on 18 August. Formerly heard st th resident. An 2002: started calling at CP on 1 March; seen along GL on 13 April (RB). occasionally, but 237 A apparent decrease 2003: two at CP on 2nd March (RB); one at CP on 5th July in banyan; heard at CP noticeable increase in has also occurred in on 28th September (RB). Megalaima virens the late 1980s. TPK since the early th Great Barbet Recently again much 2004: one at CP on 18 April, subsequently seen through to December 2004. Two 1990s (PR Kennerley st less evident. on 1 August (RB) along GL. pers comm). 2005: 3rd April, one at CP (RB); 1st July, a pair at CP (RB). 2006: 6th February, heard on GL (KB). SS: ten bird days from 1st April to 26th June, with a maximum of three. 2002: a few birds below track to TPIL 12 on 26th March. Abundant passage 2004: 17th April, 6 above Headland; numerous on 2nd May (RB). migrant, especially in 251 A Up to 6 occasionally 2005: 18th July, three over Girassol (RB). spring, common recorded during nd th Hirundo rustica summer visitor and 2006: 22 March to 20 April, between one and 6 (18 April) seen overhead above March-September. Barn Swallow uncommon winter the Headland (KB). visitor. SS: 31 bird days between March and end July, with a maximum of six on 6th April and 27th May. Scarce passage 1997: along GL on 11th and 13th September. 254 A migrant, commoner 2000: along GL on 29th and 30th August (KB, RB); bird near garage on 22nd Five records. in autumn with Dendronanthus indicus September (KB). Forest Wagtail occasional winter records. 2006: 30th April, one on GL (RB).
75 HKBWS TPK Headland sp. no. & Cat HK Status Habitat / Notes Status Species Common winter 257 A Occasionally visitor & passage 1997: one in garage area on 12th October (RB). Motacilla cinerea recorded: August- migrant, possibly 2006: 1st May, one on GL (RB) and one at CP (KB). Grey Wagtail March. with occasional SS: five records of single birds between 31st August and 1st March. breeding. 1992: white-faced seen at Girassol in February (KB). 2002: two birds Yau King Lane on 8th March. th th 258 A 2003: juvenile at Girassol on 20 July (RB); one on Girassol roof, on 30 October Common winter (RB). Recorded Motacilla alba visitor & passage 2004: two at Girassol on 31st October (RB). (leucopsis) throughout the year. migrant. 2005: 2nd January, one on GL (RB); 2nd July, one juvenile on GL (RB). White Wagtail 2006: 1st January, one at Girassol (RB); 14th January, one at Girassol (RB); 19th March, one at Lookout Link (RB). SS: ten bird days between 31st August and 29th January. Seen annually, but dates not recorded prior to 2002: 1985: three on 29th December (KB, RB). 2002: two along GL on 20th February (RWL, RB); four at Girassol on 31st March (RB). 2003: 20+ at Girassol on 5th January (RB); four in Girassol garden on 29th October (KB); six in Girassol garden on 5th and 8th November (RB). 2004: six on 26th January at Girassol (RB); 23rd October, two at Girassol (RB), thereafter six+ through to December. 260 A Frequently recorded Common winter 2005: 1st January, six at CP (RB); 14th to 27th November, six at CP (RB); 23rd Anthus hodgsoni in winter; high count visitor & passage November, 12 at Girassol and six at GL (RB); 26th December, eight at Girassol Olive-backed Pipit of 20+. migrant. (RB). 2006: 16th January, eight at CP (KB); 28th January, six at Girassol (RB); 31st January, eight at Girassol (RB); 4th February, four at CP (RB); 6th February, one on GL (KB); 19th March, eight on GL (RB); 22nd March, four at CP (KB); 27th March, three at Girassol (KB); 28th March, four on GL (KB); 30th March, six on GL (KB); 19th April, one at CP (KB). SS: 57 bird days in two main periods: 16 between 22nd March and 23rd April; 39 from 11th December to 5th February. Also two birds recorded on both 14th September and 16th November. 2000: one below CP on 10th November (RB). th First recorded in 2003: one at CP, (photos taken) with Hair-crested Drongos on 14 September st 265 A 2000 & subsequently (RB, KB); one on GL (RB, KTM) on 1 November. Coracina melaschistos noted on at least 12 Scarce winter visitor 2004: one at GL on 18th November (KB); one on 9th December along GL (RB). Black-winged dates between & passage migrant. 2005: 3rd October, one at GL eating a caterpillar (KB). Cuckoo-shrike September and 2006: one on 16th January at CP (KB); 8th February, one on GL (RWL, RB). March. SS: seven bird days: one to two between 27th September and 11th December and one more on 1st March. 1999: four birds+ feeding on 20th and 21st November (RB). Noted on four dates th 267 A Passage migrant, 2002: one in Schima superba at top of GL on 7 April (KB, RB). in spring and one in most numerous in 2004: 28th March, one at Girassol (RB); 17th April, one at CP (RB). Pericrocotus divaricatus autumn, all since Spring. th Ashy Minivet 1999. 2005: 11 October, one at Girassol (RB). SS: Single birds noted on 6th April and 17th April. 1997:4-5 adults feeding young on 1st June. A forest species that 2002: pair along GL on 20thFebruary (RB, RWL); four+ at CP on 31st March (RB); has greatly increased two juveniles at CP on 7th April (RB); seen at CP on 14th April (RB); two at CP on as woodland on the 3rd November (RB). Headland has 2003: seen CP on 5th January, three birds on 5th March, and two birds on 16th matured. Since 1997, March, five seen on 6th and 12th April, four seen on 13th April, seen at Girassol on frequently recorded 27th April, four seen CP on 1stMay, seen CP on 11th May; juvenile seen on 24th May 268 A throughout the year, (RWL); two+ juveniles GL, on 13th July (RB); two at CP on 23rd July (RB); four on Common in winter, including juveniles, GL and TPIL 12 junction on 1st October (RB); with bird-wave below CP on 30th Pericrocotus solaris scarce to uncommon and very likely October (KB); one male TPIL 12 track on 9th November (RB). Grey-chinned in Summer. [LC] Minivet breeds. The count 2004: one at GL, 23rd January (RB); four (adults + juveniles) at CP on 21st March of 37 in December (RB); female moss-gathering on 12 April at CP (RB); 3 at Girassol on May 2nd 2002 is amongst the (RB); juvenile on 4th July at GL (RB); two at GL on 11th September (RB), three on highest away from 12th September (RB), also on 16th October (RB); ten on 18th November (KB); six Tai Po Kau Nature on 22nd October, 30th October (RB); two on 27th December at CP (RB) and six on Reserve or Shing 29th December at GL (RB). Mun Country Park . 2005: 2nd January, two on GL (RB); 4th October, one at GL (KB); 13th October, one at Girassol (RB).
76 HKBWS TPK Headland sp. no. & Cat HK Status Habitat / Notes Status Species 2006: 1st January, two at Girassol (RB); 16th January, two at CP (KB); 6th February, three on GL (KB); 8th March, 2nd & 9th April, one at CP (RB); 16th April, three at 268 A CP (RB); 17th April, pair at CP (KB); 20th April, one male at CP (KB) and one male Pericrocotus solaris at Girassol (KB); 23rd April, one male singing at CP (KB); 25th & 26th April, a pair Grey-chinned at Girassol (RB); 30th April, one on GL (RB); 6th May, three at CP (RB); 17th May, Minivet one at CP (RB); 17th June, two at CP (RB). nd th (entry continued) SS: 70 bird days in two periods: 33 between 22 March and 26 June; 47 between 2nd November and 1st March; Peak count of 37 on 11th December; three juveniles noted on 26th June. 1992: four seen on 16th January. 1999: pairs seen and heard on 16th and 17th February; several birds were seen on 7th March and birds displaying on 13th June; a pair with two or three juveniles on 28th June and juveniles alone were seen 1st July. 2000: four seen 17th December. 2002: two at CP on 31st March and seen again 14th April; more than ten at Girassol & CP on 10th July; two seen CP on 3rd November. 2003: four were seen at CP on 5th January, 2nd and 16th March and 13th April; a solitary female near CP on 8th May; birds seen 11th May (RB) and on 24th May Another forest (RWL); one adult and two juveniles at CP on 22nd June; three birds along GL on species which has 23rd July; two adults and two juveniles at CP on 2nd August; Eight birds including greatly increased as several juveniles along GL on 12th September; three adults and seven juveniles at the woodland has TPIL 12 on 13th September; group of six including two adult males along GL on matured. Now 1st October; a pair along GL on 25th October and a male along the TPIL 12 on 9th recorded throughout November (mostly RB). Common resident 269 A the year & found 2004: 22nd January, two at CP (RB); one male at GL on 28th March (RB); two males nesting. that has greatly Pericrocotus flammeus increased since the at CP on 11th April (RB); 2 at Girassol on May 2nd (RB); one on 4th July at GL Scarlet Minivet The count of 22 in 1950s. (RB); four on 11th September at GL (RB); three+ on 12th September (RB). December 2003 is 2005: 1st January, two at CP (RB); 15th October, three (one each of male, female + the highest away juvenile) on GL (RB); 20th October, one at Girassol (RB); 23rd October, two at from Tai Po Kau Girassol (RB); 28th October, two at CP (RB); 10th November, two at Girassol (RB); Nature Reserve or 26th November, two at Girassol (RB). Shing Mun 2006 th st Country Park. : 29 January, two on GL (RB); 31 January a male & female pair at CP (RB); 4th and 5th February, same pair at CP (RB); 5th March, two at CP (RB); 18th March, pair plus one juvenile male on GL (RB); 24th March, pair at CP (KB); 28th March, one male at CP (KB); 29th March, two pairs, one on GL and one at Lookout Link (RB); 9th April, three at CP (RB); 19th & 20th April, one juvenile at CP (KB); 23rd to 25th April, a pair at CP (KB, RB); 16th May, two at CP (RB); 31st May, three, including one juvenile, on GL (RB); 17th June, three at CP (RB); 18th June, two juveniles at CP (RB). SS: 111 bird days seen throughout the survey period, with a peak of 22 on 8th December; Nest made of eucalyptus bark found in paper bark tree, later deserted; two juveniles noted 26th June. Successfully breeding; regularly seen throughout the Headland though tend to favour the garden areas and margins of these; usually no records have been kept for these: 2002: four observed along GL on 20th February (RWL, RB). 2003: juveniles noted around Girassol and CP gardens on 27th April and 13th July (RB); observed feeding on fruit of Persimmon, Diospyros kaki at Girassol on 12th September (RB); observed eating fruit of Ginger, Alpinia zerumbet at CP from 24th – 28th October (RB, KB). 2004: flock eating vegetables on 25th January at Girassol (RB); breeding noted in 270 A Recorded May (RB); flock eating Psychotria berries on 18th November (KB); 50+ feeding on throughout the year, the ground on 29th December on the Headland (RB). Pycnonotus jocosus Abundant resident. Red-whiskered with a peak count of 2005: 1st January, 30+ on GL (RB); 12th June, numerous pairs carrying food, Bulbul 58 in winter; breeds. throughout TPK Headland (RB); 11th September, 10+ with juveniles on GL (RB); 11th October, eight at Girassol (RB); 20th November, 20+ on GL (RB); 27th December, 10 on GL (RB) eating Duranta erecta berries. 2006: 5th February, 12 on GL (RB); 6th February, several groups on GL (KB); 7th February, eight on GL (KB); 19th March, a flock of 20+ at Girassol (RB); 22nd March to 24th April, pairing activity – at least five pairs evident (KB); 7th May, 30 throughout the Headland, in pairs, breeding behaviour & very vocal (RB); 31st May, several family parties in evidence at Girassol (RB). SS: 1065 bird days throughout the survey period. Maximum of 58 on 11th December. Recorded Successfully breeding; regularly seen throughout the Headland and large flocks 271 A throughout the year, Abundant resident appear seasonally to feed on certain native trees; usually no records have been kept Pynonotus sinensis with peak counts of with increased for these: Chinese Bulbul 100+ in late winter; numbers in winter. 1984: seen in CP garden on 21st January (KB). breeds. 2002: six along GL on 20th February (RWL, RB).
77 HKBWS TPK Headland sp. no. & Cat HK Status Habitat / Notes Status Species 2003: flocks eating fruit of Syzygium hancei on 1st February (RB); an early morning flock of more than 100 at Girassol on 31st March (RB); many juveniles noted at Girassol and in the Headland area on 27th April and 13th July (RB); observed feeding on fruit of Persimmon, Diospyros kaki on 12th September at Girassol (RB); Observed eating fruit of Ginger, Alpinia zerumbet at CP from 24th –28th October (RB, KB). 2004: flock eating vegetables on 25th January at Girassol (RB); breeding noted in May (RB); flock eating Psychotria berries on 18th November (KB); flock of 20 on 9th December at GL (RB). 271 A 2005: 1st January, 30 at CP (RB); 24th July, six with juveniles at Girassol (RB); 11th Pynonotus sinensis October, six at Girassol (RB); 13th October, 15 at Girassol (RB); 23rd October, six
Chinese Bulbul at Girassol (RB); 28th October, flock of 40+ on Headland (RB); 13th November, th (entry continued) 40+ at Girassol (RB); 27 December, six on GL (RB). 2006: 5th February, six on GL (RB); 7th February, three on GL (KB); late March through April, regular sightings of three to nine birds (RB, KB); 19th March, flock of 50+ at Girassol (RB); 2nd April, flock of ~50 on the Headland (RB); 8th April, flock of ~120 on the Headland; 7th May, 20 throughout the Headland, in pairs, breeding behaviour & very vocal (RB); 31st May, several family parties in evidence at Girassol (RB). SS: 933 bird days throughout the survey period. Maximum of 90 on 5th February; Juveniles noted on 30th July and 30th August. A bird of farmland and agricultural edge; formerly occurred 272 A but not recorded Occasionally seen in and around gardens of CP & Girassol up until mid 1980s but Locally common since the mid 1980s, dates not recorded. No longer present. Pynonotus aurigaster resident. Sooty-headed Bulbul presumably as 1985: numerous seen at Christmas count on 29th December (KB, RB). woodland on the Headland has matured. Only started being seen on the Headland in the mid 1980s and becoming increasingly more evident in recent years, though some years they are more numerous: 1985: two seen during Christmas count on 29th December (KB, RB). 1992: two at Girassol and CP on 27th April (KB). 1996: several at Girassol on 28th April (RB). 1998: two immatures noted on 2nd August (RB); one juvenile killed - window collision casualty on 22nd November (RB). 1999: numerous were seen on 16th and 17th February (RB); two flocks of about 25 each feeding on insects on the wing on 7th March; also recorded on 6th June. 2000: two were seen 2nd April, 6th October, 17th December and 26th January. 2001: part of mixed species flock outside CP on 26th January (RB); recorded again on 28th January, 23rd February and 18th March; six along GL on 16th November. 2002: a flock low over and about CP on 3rd February; two on 12th February at CP; several were seen at CO on 13th February; ten along GL on 20th February (RWL, RB); observed all over the Headland on 7th April (RB); with juveniles on 10th July at Girassol and CP (RB). A woodland species 2003: four near CP on 5th January (RB); 20+ along Girrasol lane and near garage first seen mid 1980s. nd 30+ th 273 A Has greatly inceased, Locally common on 2 March (RB); along Girrasol lane and near garage on 16 March (RB); th th 25-30 with a peak count of resident & winter six seen at Girassol on 5 and 6 April (RB); a flock of in Casuarinas near Hysipetes castanotus Girassol on 12th April (RB); juveniles noted on 27th April; 8.5.03: seen along GL on Chestnut Bulbul 54 in March 2002, visitor. th th and very likely 8 May and in CP garden on 11 May (RB). breeds. 2004: flock eating vegetables on 25th January at Girassol (RB); also present on 21st March at CP (RB); flock of 10+ on 1st April at CP (RB), again on 2nd April; 3rd April, 111 (!) counted at CP (KB). 2005: 7th January, flock at Girassol (RB); 3rd April, 6+ at CP (RB); 22nd April, six at CP (RB); 11th June, heard on GL (RB); 19th June, two at GL (RB); 24th, two at Girassol (RB); 15th October, two on GL (RB); 13th November, two+ at CP (RB); 19th November, six on GL (RB); 20th November, four+ at CP (RB); 26th November, four at CP (RB); 27th November, six at CP (RB); 26th December, four on GL (RB). 2006: 1st January, two at CP and three on GL (RB); 14th January, 12 at Girassol (RB); 27th January, 10 at Lookout Link (RB); 28th January, four on GL (RB); 29th January, six on GL (RB); 31st January, four at CP (RB); 4th February, six on GL (RB); 6th February, 10 on GL (KB); 7th February, seven on GL (KB); from early March to early April counts in two figures, including 40 to 50 on 19th March at Girassol (RB), 70+ on 2nd April at CP (RB), 100 to 120 on 5th April at CP and Girassol (RB) and 70+ on 8th April at Girassol (RB); 18th April, three on GL (KB); 19th April, two on GL (KB); 20th April, three heard on GL (KB), 24th April, a pair prospecting for territory on GL (KB), confirmed holding territory by 6th May (RB). SS: 155 bird days. Peak counts of 54 on 22nd March and 28 on 1st March account for more than half of all records.
78 HKBWS TPK Headland sp. no. & Cat HK Status Habitat / Notes Status Species 1992: up to 17 stayed for a week in trees below CP and Girassol from 1st March Up to 5 of this (KB, RB). woodland species 1995: one seen and heard over a few days around 9th March (KB). recorded in March- 1997: two in trees at Girassol on 24th May (RB). 274 A May most years Irruptive winter 1998: two seen in trees just outside CP on 3rd September-photograph taken (RB). Hysipetes leucocephalus 1992-2003, with a visitor & scarce 2001: two below CP on 16th March and three again on 1st April; two on 29th April Black Bulbul peak count of 17 in passage migrant. March 1992; also two (RB). seen in September 2002: one at Girassol on 11th April (KB). 1998. 2003: one at CP on 13th April and five on 8th May up at Girassol (RB). SS: single birds on 6th and 17th April. 1990: a few individuals over several days prior to 12th June in gardens of CP and Girassol (KB). 1994: immature at CO in Holmskioldia sanguinea on 1st February (KB). 1996: one seen in Holmskioldia sanguinea on 7th January (RB). 1997: a pair in Girassol garden for several weeks prior to 1st March (RB). 2000: two in garden from 3rd January until 7th February –photo taken (RB). Up to 3 of this 2001: three including one juvenile over several days from 24th January. nectar-loving species 2002: two, sometimes with a juvenile in Girassol garden from 20th January until recorded most years 17th February; in Rhodoleia championi then moved to Camellia japonica and Murraya 275 A 1990-2003, with paniculata (RB). Chloropsis hardwickii records in all Scarce resident & 2003: one at Girassol on 5th January (RB). seasons, all no doubt winter visitor. [LC] Orange-bellied 2004 th th attracted by the : one on 26 January at Girassol (RWL); 27 Janaury one male & one female Leafbird th Dendrophthe pentandra abundance of (RB), one on 28 January (RB); one feeding on on 5 April (RB). flowering plants on 2005: 1st January, one at Girassol (RB); 2nd February, male & female arrived at Rhodoleia (in the Headland. bud), GL (RB); 23rd November, two at Girassol (RB); 27th December, three at Girassol eating fruit of climbing fig Ficus pumila (RB). 2006: 31st January, a pair at Girassol on Rhodoleia, the male later seen in Dombeya; the pair seen again on 4th and 5th February. The male was seen on 7th and 8th February, again in the Rhodelia (RB, KB); 1st March, three in a Camellia hongkongensis at Girassol (RB). SS: five bird days, all of solitary birds. One on 1st May, one on 19th October and three more between 17th December and 29th January. 2000: one low in shrubs along GL on 30th August (RB). 278 A Common passage 2003: one along GL and track to TPIL 12 on 7th September (RB); heard below CP Occasional sightings migrant especially in on 24th September (RB). Lanius cristatus in spring & autumn. spring & rare in st Brown Shrike winter. 2006: 21 April, one (lucionensis subspecies) perched atop a Craeteva religiosa (KB). SS: one on 14th May. A species of open 279 A areas, formerly much Common breeding more common. SS: two on 31st August and one on 17th December. Lanius schach resident. Long-tailed Shrike Recorded twice in 2002. 282 A A woodland species Uncommon passage 1994: one caught by cat but released unharmed on 18th March (KB, RB). Luscinia sibilans with just two migrant & winter SS: one on 15th January. Rufous-tailed Robin records. visitor. Scarce migrant, 284 A One spring record of commoner in this woodland 2003: one male seen on GL with three Red-billed Leiothrix on 30th March (RB). Luscinia cyane autumn; occasional species. Siberian Blue Robin in winter. [LC] 1993: one at Girassol and CP over two days in January (KB, RB). 2002: one on slope below CO on 16th January and one female near CP on 25th A species of th Common winter January; one along GL on 20 February (RWL, RB). 286 A woodland & visitor & passage 2003: male & female at Girassol on 1st January and remained for some weeks (RB), shrubland; occurs as Tarsiger cyanurus migrant in variable MH took photographs. a winter visitor in Red-flanked Bluetail numbers. th th December-March. 2004: one female on 25 Jaunary at GL (RB), one male on 28 at Girassol (RB), one femal on 27th March at CP (RB). SS: 13 bird days between 11th December and 29th January. Always present but records not usually kept of sightings: 1985: one pair on 29th December (RB, KB). 287 A 2000: juvenile in bird-bath at CP on 17th September. This garden-loving Copsychus saularis th bird is present all Abundant resident. 2001: nesting on 30 April. Oriental Magpie year and breeds. 2003: breeding Girassol, 13th April (RB); adults with juvenile Girassol 13th July (RB); Robin two pairs seen with juveniles at Girassol 20th July (RB); one at CP 2nd August (RB); two at CP 3rd September, (RB); GL & TPIL 12 junction 1st October (RB); four along GL on 25th October (RB).
79 HKBWS TPK Headland sp. no. & Cat HK Status Habitat / Notes Status Species 2004: two on 25th January at GL (RB); again on 2nd May, 4th July and 16th October (RB). 2005: 1st January, two at Girassol (RB); 3rd April, two at CP (RB); 11th June, six + with juveniles on GL (RB); 19th June, four plus young at GL (RB); 1st July, four at 287 A CP (RB); 24th July, one at Girassol (RB); 4th October, two on GL (KB); 11th Copsychus saularis October, two on GL (RB); 20th November, two at Girassol (RB). Oriental Magpie 2006: 29th January, one on GL (RB); 28th March, two at Girassol (KB); 5th April, Robin one at Girassol (RB); 8th April, two at CP (KB); 17th April, one heard on GL (KB); th rd (entry continued) 19 April, one male on GL and one female at Girassol (KB); 23 April one heard on GK (KB); 30th April, four at Girassol and on GL (RB); 6th May, two at CP (RB). SS: 69 bird days throughout the survey period. Young fledged from nest in outbuilding at Lookout on 23rd April. Winter sightings over the years, previously more frequent, dates not recorded: 289 A Occasionally seen in Common winter 1959: early November, recorded for 16 days at Girassol (HK Bird report 1959: 40, 73). Phoenicurus auroreus winter. visitor. 1992: 5th November, one at Girassol, near garage (KB). Daurian Redstart 2003: female at Girassol on 1st January. Very many sightings and often heard over the years; noted records as follows: 1985: two seen on 29th December. 1992: 30th September. 2000: seen at TPIL 12 on 22nd May; one seen on 6th October. 2001: four seen on 30th March at 7pm; seen on GL on 30th April. 2002: five seen at Girassol & CP on 1st May (RB). 2003: heard at CP on 13th July (RB); one seen at CP on 5th October (RB); one seen th 298 A along GL on 25 October (RB). 2004: one at GL on 12th October (RB), again on 31st October. Present all year; has Widespread & locally Myophonus caeruleus st st nd nested. common resident. 2005: 1 July, one at CP (RB); 21 and 22 September, inside Girassol garage (RB); Blue Whistling 11th October, one at CP (RB); 15th October, one on GL (RB); 23rd October, one at Thrush Girassol (RB); 5th November, two at Girassol (RB); 10th to 28th November, one or two at CP (RB); 26th December, one on GL (RB); one on GL and one at CP on 31st December (RB). 2006: 1st January, same two birds as for 31st December 2005 (RB); 28th January, two at CP (RB); 31st January, one at GL (RB); 5th February, one at CP and one on GL (RB); 6th & 7th February, one on GL (KB); 21st & 23rd March, one at CP (RB, KB); 29th March, one on GL (RB); 23rd April, one heaard on eastern slopes of Headland (KB). SS: ten bird days in March to May. Breeding attempted in ruined house TPIL 12 (12th April to 1st May) but success not confirmed. 299 A Scarce winter visitor & passage migrant; Seen twice in 1996: a solitary bird along lower GL on 16th October (RB). Zoothera citrina occasional summer autumn. th Orange-headed records & has 2005: 11 September, one juvenile at CP (RB). Thrush probably bred. [LC] Very many sightings over the years but dates not recorded, including one window collision at Girassol, treated by Dr Gary Ades and released in mid 1990’s: 1997: one below Girassol on 7th December. 2001: two along GL on 24th January; seen on GL for some days from 3rd February. 2002: two along GL on 5th January. 301 A Winter visitor: 1-2 Uncommon winter 2004 nd th th th Zoothera dauma present probably in : 22 & 27 January, one at CP (RB); one on 18 and 20 April at GL (RB). visitor. nd th th Scaly Thrush most years. 2005: 2 January, one on GL (RB); 4 April, one on GL (RB); 20 November, one on GL (RB); 27th December, one at Girassol (RB). 2006: one on 1st and 3rd January on GL (RB); 24th January, one on GL (KB); 5th February, one on GL (RB), again on 6th and 9th February (KB); 2nd March, one on GL and one at Girassol (RB). SS: one on 15th January. 1997: male found dead - window collision at Girassol, on 17th February 1998: seen on 29th January. 302 A Up to 2 occasionally Uncommon passage 2002: one pair seen at noon above garage on 17th February (RB); two seen recorded December- migrant & winter Turdis cardis including one adult male on 20th February (RWL, RB). February. visitor. Japanese Thrush 2004: one male at GL on 26th January. SS: one on 11th December and two on 17th December. Usually seasonally heard and seen; dates only irregularly noted: 1985: four on 29th December (KB, RB). Annual between rd Common winter 1993: two seen on 23 October. 303 A October and visitor & passage 1994: first heard on 1st November. February, with a Turdus merula migrant with 2 th peak count of 67 in 1995: first heard on 9 November. Common Blackbird breeding records. November 2002. 1996: first heard on 1st November. 1998: 25+seen on 22nd November.. 2000: two+seen on 17th December.
80 HKBWS TPK Headland sp. no. & Cat HK Status Habitat / Notes Status Species 2001: two+ seen on 24th January; two seen on 1st February; one seen on 11th February; two seen on 24th February. 2002: one on 6th November (RWL). 2003: first heard on 21st October (KB); 10 in CP garden on 30th October (KB); six at CP, on 1st November (RB); four along GL on 4th November (RB); four at CP on 5th November (RB); four along upper GL on 6th November (RB). 303 A 2004: first recorded on 22rd October (KB), then two+ continuously thereafter; six Turdus merula th feeding on Psychotria berries at GL (RB) on 20 November then on Cinnamomum Common Blackbird fruits the next day; 30th November, on female sent to KFBG for rehab following rd (entry continued) raptor attack, returned and released on 3 December. 2005: 1st January, three on GL (RB); 11th November, two on GL (RB); 18th November, two at Girassol (RB); 19th November, four on GL (RB); 23rd November, six on GL (RB); 26th November, four at CP (RB); 27th November, four at CP (RB); 26th December, two on GL (RB). SS: 84 bird days all between 2nd November and 29th January. Peak count of 67 on 16th November. Seen annually but dates only irregularly noted: 1964: 24th March, one found dead on GL (RB). 1998: two seen on 29th January; two seen on 22nd November at Girassol (RB). 2002: one seen on GL on 24th and 27th January: two at TPIL 12 track on 12th February: two males seen along GL on 20th February, (RWL, RB). th 305 A Annual in winter, Common to 2003: one at Girassol on 6 April (RB). Turdus hortulorum with a peak of 6 in abundant winter 2004: 25th & 26th January, two at GL (RB). Grey-backed Thrush January 2003. visitor. 2006: 1st January, one at GL in Osmanthus matsumuranus, regurgitated seeds on concrete of GL adjacent to the parent trees and at water bowl nearby (RB); 29th January, one at Girassol (RB); 31st January, one on GL (RB); 4th February, two on GL (RB); 6th February, three at GL (KB); 7th February, one on GL (KB); 8th February, one on GL (RB); 2nd March, one on GL (RB). SS: 20 bird days: Eight (up to four birds on three days) from 22nd March to 1st April and 12 between 17th December and 5th February (maximum six on 29th January). 307 A Scarce passage 2002: one along GL on 24th January (RB); one along GL on 20th February (RWL, Three records in migrant & winter RB). Turdus obscurus winter. Eyebrowed Thrush visitor. SS: one on 23rd November. 2000: seen below CP on 25th June (RB). 2001: two+ at garage on Casuarina tree trunk & at vegetable garden on 5th and 6th June; Heard & recorded on 10th June (RB); in front of CP on 9th September (RB). 2002: one seen along GL (RWL, RB); four including juvenile at GL on 9th July (RB); four including two juveniles in Hamelia patens Girassol at end of June (RB). 2003: three along GL on 18th May (RB); one below CP on 30th October (KB); seen along GL on 1st November (KTM); one at CP on 2nd November (RB); four along GL on 6th November (RB). 2004: 23rd January, one at GL (RB); one at CP on 4th June (RB); one bathing at CP th th th nd Since the first record on 11 September (RB); 17 October at GL (RB), again on 18 and 22 October 309 C in 2000, noted in all Uncommon & at GL and CP (RB, KB). Pomatorhinus ruficollis months, with a peak localised resident 2005: 1st January, one on GL (RB); 11th June, two heard on GL (RB); 19th June, count of 4 adults & 2 population of captive two at GL (RB); 2nd July, two seen and a further two heard at CP (RB); 24th July, Streak-breasted th th Scimitar Babbler juveniles; thought to origin. two at CP (RB); 4 October, two heard on GL (KB); 15 October, two on GL breed. (RB); 26th December, one at CP (RB). 2006: 14th January, one at CP (RB); 23rd January, one below CP (KB); 29th January, one on GL (RB); 5th February, two on GL (RB); 5th March, one heard on GL (RB); 15th March, two at CP (RB); 17th March, one heard on GL (RB, KB); 18th March, one heard at CP (RB); 30th & 31st March, one heard on GL (KB); 10th April, one heard at CP (KB); 16th April, 2 heard on GL (RB); 17th & 18th April, one heard on GL (KB); 19th April, one heard at TPIL12 (KB); 23rd & 25th April, one heard on eastern slopes of Headland (GH, RB, KB) and two heard on track to TPIL12 (RB); 13th May, two on TPIL12 track (RB). SS: 22 bird days with 19 from 14th September (maximum three on 29th January) to end of survey period. Heard in Headland area several months before it was first sighted and identified: 2001: RB's first sighting in Girassol garden on 27th August and heard daily; heard on 14th October. 310 C Since the first record in 2001, noted in all Scarce resident 2002: heard CP on 12th February; heard at CO on 13th February; heard close to CP Stachyris ruficeps months, with a peak population of captive on 17th February; several heard calling below CP on 18th February; six heard, Rufous-capped count of 15; thought origin. [LC] including three also seen on 20th February (RWL, RB); two+ seen at CP on 7th Babbler to breed. April (RB); seen CP on 14th April (RB); four in Hamelia patens Girassol at end June (RB); seen along GL on 9th July (RB); many seen CP on 10th July (RB); seen, including juveniles CP on 14th July (RB); four+ including juveniles CP & Girassol on 8th September (RB); two at CP on 3rd November (RB).
81 HKBWS TPK Headland sp. no. & Cat HK Status Habitat / Notes Status Species 2003: two+ seen CP on 31st January (RB); four bathing CP birdbath on 1st February (RB); seen on 2nd and 16th March (RB); seen CP on 13th and 20th April (RB); two seen GL on 1st May (RB); seen CP 8th and 11th May (RB); two at CP on 23rd May (KB); two at front of CP on 27th June; juvenile killed by cat at CP on 19th July (RB); two at CP birdbath on 2nd August (RB); two on GL, TPIL 12 junction on 1st October (RB); two at CP on 5th October (RB); with bird wave below CP on 30th October (KB); seen GL on 1st November (KTM); two bathing at CP on 2nd November (RB); two at CP on 5th November (RB). 2004: one at GL on 25th January (RB); two on 21st March at GL (RB); two at GL on 28th March (RB); 2nd April, one at CP (RB); 11th April, two at CP birdbath (RB); 17th April, two at CP (RB); two at GL on 4th July (RB); two at GL on 11th September (RB), again on 16th October (RB); 6th November, three at CP birdbath (RB); four on 25th November at GL (RB); three on 27th December at CP (RB); two at CP on 29th December (RB). 310 C 2005: 1st January, two on GL (RB); 6th March, two at CP (RB); 3rd April, two at CP Stachyris ruficeps (RB); 11th June, four adults & 2 juveniles at CP (RB); 12th June, five at CP birdbath Rufous-capped (RB); 19th June, six at CP & GL (RB); 1st July, two at CP (RB); 2nd July, six at CP Babbler (RB); 17th July, two at CP (RB); 24th July, three at CP (RB); 11th September, four at CP (RB); 4th October, three on GL (KB); 9th October, six at CP (RW+RB); 11th (entry continued) October, four at Girassol (RB); 15th October, six on GL (RB); 11th November, one on GL (RB); 26th November, three at CP (RB); 27th November, two at CP and two on GL (RB); 26th December, 15 at GL (RB). 2006: 28th and 29th January, two on GL (RB); 30th January, one on GL and on at CP (RB); 31st January, three on GL (RB); 5th February, four on GL (RB); 6th February, heard on GL (KB); 7th February, one on GL (KB); 5th March, three at CP (RB); 15th March, one heard at CP (RB); 18th March, four on GL (RB); 22nd March, four heard on GL and at CP (KB); 27th March, four hearad on GL (KB); 1st April, three on GL (RB); 16th April, two on GL (RB); 18th to 20th April, upto nine heard at CP, Girassol and along GL (KB); 30th April, two on GL (RB); 6th May, one on GL (RB); 7th May, one heard at CP (RB, KB); 13th May, two on GL (RB); 16th May, two at CP (RB). SS: 186 bird days evenly spread throughout survey period. Peak count of 15 on 15th January; many birds seen in pairs from mid April – May. Previously much more common on the Headland than they are now and hence dates not recorded: Recorded 1985: numerous seen on 29th December (KB, RB). 312 A throughout the year; 2000: flock below CP on 23rd August (RB). believed now much Garrulax perspicillatus Abundant resident. 2003: two at CP on 20th April (RB); four at TPIL 12 on 18th May (RB). Masked less common than 2005: 7th April, one heard at CP (RB). Laughingthrush previously. Has very likely bred. 2006: 19th March, four at Lookout Link (RB); 13th May, four at GL (RB). SS: 65 bird days evenly spread throughout survey period. Peak count of eight on 11th December. 1996: four below garage area near Girassol on 16th June (RB) – these have been heard for months and this is the first good view; from four to eight seen on 28th and 29th June in the same area (RB); up to four seen near CP on 14th July and a pair observed mating (RB); small flock scattered throughout shrubs near Girassol on 10th September (RB). 1997: pair observed grooming a juvenile on 13th April (RB); up to eight on slope below garage on 15th October (RB). 1998: more than 12 along upper GL on 22nd November (RB). Following the first 1999: several along TPIL 12 track on 22nd May (RB). records of this 2000: large groups of more than eight birds seen on 22nd May, 11th June, 23rd woodland species in August and 6th October; more than 20 on the slopes below CP on 19th November 1996, up to 20 have Widespread but (RB). 313 C been regularly noted scarce resident 2002: two at Girassol on 7th April and again on 14th April (RB); more than four throughout the year. population of captive Garrulax pectoralis along GL on 30th April (RB). Greater Necklaced A nest found in April origin. First recorded 2003: four in Girassol garden on 27th April and along GL on 1st May (RB); three Laughingthrush 2002 was the first for in Hong Kong in Hong Kong. Has 1969. with Black-throated Laughingthrushes along GL on 8th May (RB); ten at CP on 3rd displaced the Masked September, the day after Typhoon ‘Dujuan’ (RB); and heard along GL on 12th Laughingthrush. September (RB). 2004: 21st March, two at GL (RB), 5 at CP on 1st April (KB), again on 2nd April (RB). 2005: 1st July, one with one juvenile on GL (RB); 24th July, heard at CP (RB); 4th October, eight on GL (KB); 8th October, four on GL (RB); 15th October, one heard on CO (RB). 2006: 17th May, one at GL (RB), accompanied by possible Lesser Necklaced Laughingthrush – no positive i-d made; may also have been a juvenile GNL. SS: 42 bird days evenly spread throughout survey period. Two fledged juveniles on a nest on 12th April. First record of nesting in Hong Kong.
82 HKBWS TPK Headland sp. no. & Cat HK Status Habitat / Notes Status Species These may have been over-looked because of confusion with Hill Myna’s various calls so perhaps have been around much longer than recorded. 2001: one observed for the first time along lower GL on 15th June (RB); two with Hair-crested Drongos on 3rd November (RB). 2002: one at edge of CP garden on 3rd February (RB); one along GL on 20th February (RWL, RB); one at birdbath in CP garden, noon on 5th July (KB);one along GL on 9th July (RB). 2003: four including a juvenile along GL carrying food on 8th May (RB); two along GL on 12th September (RB); from September to early November heard most days mimicking various calls on slopes below CP (KB, RB); eating fruit of Persimmon, Diospyros kaki, at Girassol on 12th September (RB); two along GL and TPIL 12 junction on 1st October (RB); four at CP on 5th October and up to two along GL on 25th October and 1st November, (RB). First definitely 2004: 28th January, one at GL (RB); two at GL on 21st March (RB); 28th March, two identified in 2001, nd nd th 314 C Common resident at GL (RB); again on 2 April (RB); one on 2 May (RB); three on 4 July at GL since when it has nd th th Garrulax chinensis population of captive (RB); 22 October & 25 November, one at GL (RB); four at GL on 29 been regularly December (RB). Black-throated origin. Shrubland or recorded throughout 2005 st nd rd Laughingthrush woodland species : 1 January, one at CP (RB); 22 January, four at birdbath, CP (RB); 3 April, the year. Very likely two at CP (RB); 22nd-30th April, small flock at CP each morning (RB); 11th June, breeds. heard on GL (RB); 19th June, two at GL (RB); one heard at CP on 1st July (RB); 2nd July, two on GL (RB); 8th July, three at CP (RB); 14th July, four at CP (RB); 18th July, two at CP (RB); 20th July, five (including at least one juvenile) at GL (RB); 11th September, four at GL (RB); 11th October, three at CP (RB); 15th October, five on GL (RB); 13th November, 2+ at GL and heard throughout Headland (RB); 27th November, two parties of 4+ at CP and on GL (RB); 26th December, four on GL (RB). 2006: 1st January, four on GL (RB); 15th January, two (eating Ficus pumila figs) at CP (RB); 16th January, one at CP (KB); 31st January, one heard at CP (RB); 6th February, five on GL (KB); 5th March to mid-May, between one and four birds present, including a dark-cheecked form on 28th March; 13th May, two at CP (RB); 14th May, two (mimicking Chinese Bamboo Partridge) on GL (RB); 31st May, two on GL (RB); 3rd June, one at CP (RB); 11th June, three at CP (RB). SS: 61 bird days. Up to four birds spread evenly throughout survey period. Villagers set traps for these along GL in the past. 1995: nest containing three fledglings was rescued when it fell after a storm from along TPIL 12 access track on 1st May - all eventually died, (KB). 1998: one very close to CP on 11th July; two very visible along GL on 22nd November. 1999: heard below CP on 22nd May; several heard calling all sides of the Headland on 26th June; one bathing in bird-bath at CP on 20th July (KB). 2000: two below CP on 23rd August. 2001: several seen and heard on 11th February. 2003: two along GL on 1st May (RB); one along GL on 13th July (RB); two at CP on 5th October (RB); one seen along GL on 25th October (RB); with bird wave below CP on 30th October (KB). 2004: 23rd January, one at GL (RB), two more on 25th January (RB); 28th Jaunary, 315 A Recorded Common & one at GL (RB); three on 2nd May at GL (RB); one at GL on 4th July (BR); two+ on Garrulax canorus throughout the year; widespread breeding 1st August on GL (RB), one at GL on 20th November (RB). breeding. resident. Hwamei 2005: 1st January, four on GL (RB); 11th June, one on GL (RB); 19th June, one on GL (RB); 1st July, one heard at CP (RB); 2nd and 8th July, 2 seen at GL (RB); 11th September, two on GL (RB); 11th October, one at CP (RB); 15th October, one on GL (RB); 27th November, two at CP (RB). 2006: 1st January, two on GL (RB); 28th January, three on GL (RB); 29th January, one on GL (RB); 31st January, one heard at CP (RB); 5th February, at least three on GL (RB); 6th February, two on GL (KB); 5th April, one heard, CP (RB); 19th April, one on GL and one at CP (KB); 23rd April, one at Girassol (KB); 24th April, one on GL (KB); 25th April, one at CP (KB); 30th April, two on GL (RB); 7th May, one at CP (KB); 13th May, three on TPIL12 track (RB); 15th May, one at CP (KB); 31st May, two on GL (RB), one perching in the open; 3rd June, one at CP perching in open, displaying in rain! 11th June on GL (RB); 17th June, two on GL (RB). SS: 45 bird days evenly spread thoughout survey period. Maximum of six on 11th December. 1994: one dead on Tai Po Rd at entrance to Headland 30th August. 1995: four birds along GL on 25th December. 317 D 1999: eight below CP on 5th December. Leiothrix argentauris 2000: numerous below CP on 23rd August. Silver-eared Mesia 2001: 10+ flock Eastern boundary TPIL 12 on 26th January. 2002: two seen CP 12th February; flock of six on 20th February (RWL, RB); 10+ along GL on 9th July (RB).
83 HKBWS TPK Headland sp. no. & Cat HK Status Habitat / Notes Status Species 2003: four at CP on 3rd September (RB); six to eight including juvenile at Girassol on 12th September (RB); two at CP on 2nd November (RB). 2004: 25th Jaunary, 10 at GL (RB); one on 4th July at GL (RB); ten+ on 19th First recorded in November on GL (RB). 1994. Subsequently, 2005: 22nd January, 15 on GL (RB); 24th July, one on GL (RB); 11th September, six 317 D up to 21 have been Locally common at GL (RB); 4th October, 21 on GL (KB), harassing an Asian Paradise Flycatcher; recorded recorded in th th Leiothrix argentauris resident population 9 October, four on GL plus upto 12 at CP (RB + RL); 11 October, six at CP all seasons each year of captive origin. A (RB); 20th November, six on GL (RB); 27th November, 10 at GL (RB); 26th Silver-eared Mesia 1999-2003. Very species of woodland December, 20 on GL (RB). (entry continued) likely breeds. & shrubland 2006: 1st January, 15+ at Girassol (RB); 28th January, six on GL (RB); 30th & 31st Has increased since January, 10 on GL (RB); 5th February, eight on GL (RB), also on 6th February 1990. (KB); 16th April, four at CP (RB); 20th April, one heard at Girassol (KB); 24th April, two heard on GL (KB); 1st May, two at CP (RB). SS: 22 bird days. Peak counts of ten on 14th September and eight on 8th January suggest flocks visiting occasionally from Tai Po Kau. Former occasional 318 C sightings, but very Uncommon resident Seen many years ago but no details noted: Leiothrix lutea few in recent years. population of captive 2003: three along GL with Siberian Blue Robin on 30th March (RB). Red-billed Leiothrix Possibly displaced by origin. previous species. 1998: four birds - bathing in bird-bath all week from 15th November; five birds in birdbath on 18th November. 1999: several bathing & carrying nesting material on 13th June. 2000: six at CP and bird-bath on 13th August; several below CP on 23rd August; flock below CP on 17th September; two+ near CP on 6th October. 2001: 10 seen below CP on 14th October; six seen along GL on 16th November; 10 bathing at CP on 25th November. 2002: several at CO on 13th February; six+ seen along GL (RWL, RB); at CP on 7th April (RB); 12+ including several juveniles at Girassol & CP on 8th September (RB). 2003: two bathing CP birdbath on 1st February (RB); more than four at CP on 2nd March, 16th March, 5th April (RB); four seen Girassol on 12th April (RB); seen CP Recorded annually on 20th April and 8th May (RB); carrying food on 11th May (RB); 10+ including since 1998 when this juvenile at CP on 21st June; six at CP birdbath on 2nd August (RB); six at CP on 3rd woodland species September (RB); four + juvenile on GL on 12th September (RB); with bird wave was first identified, below CP on 30th October (KB); two at CP on 6th November (RB). with adults noted 2004: 25th January, two at GL (RB); six+ on 11th September at GL (RB), three on 319 D carrying food in May Locally common th th nd 2003, indicating 16 October (RB) at GL and 18 October (KB) at CP; four on 22 October (RB); Minla cyanuroptera resident population eight on 26th Dec at CP (RB); at least eight on 29th December at CP (RB). breeding. of captive origin. Blue-winged Minla 2005: 6th March, two on GL (RB); 11th June six adults + one juvenile on GL (RB); The peak count of th th th th 32 in November 12 June, two at CP (RB); 19 June, six at GL (RB); 17 July, four at CP (RB); 24 July, 10 on GL (RB); 11th September, four at CP (RB); 4th October, six on GL 2002 is the highest th th on record in HK. (RB); 9 October, six at CP (RL+RB); 11 October, 12 at Girassol, later 15+ at CP (RB); 13th October, 10 at Girassol (RB); 16th October, four at Girassol (RB); First recorded 1992. 19th November, five at GL (RB); 27th November, six at CP (RB); 26th December, eight at GL (RB). 2006: 1st January, 10 eating fruit of Ficus pumila at Girassol (RB) again on 14th January; 28th January, eight on GL (RB); 30th January, four on GL eating fruit of Desmos chinensis (RB); 31st January, eight on GL (RB); 5th February, four on GL and one at CP (RB); 6th February, three on GL (KB); 18th March, six at Girassol (RB); 22nd March, three at CP (KB); 24th March, seven on GL (KB); 16th April, six at CP (RB); 17th April, two at Girassol (KB); 19th April, three on GL (KB); 30th April, four on GL (RB); 6th May, four at CP (RB); 13th May, four on GL (RB); 14th May, six on GL (RB); 17th May, three, including one fledgeling, at CP (RB); 31st May, two at CP (RB). SS: 139 bird days evenly spread thoughout survey period. Maximum 32 on 16th November. Two noted carrying nesting material on 12th April. 2002 th Based on 2002-2003 : one seen and three heard along GL on 20 February (RWL, RB). Common winter th 323 A records, this skulking 2003: one seen along GL on 5 November (MK). visitor & scarce & easily-overlooked 2005: 27th November, one on GL (RB). Urospena squameiceps passage migrant to species is presumed th th th th Asian Stubtail woodland & 2006: 13 January, 1 on GL (RB); 27 and 28 January, one on GL (RB); 28 to be annual in Warbler shrubland areas. March, one on GL (KB). winter. SS: 17 bird days between mid November and mid March. 325 A Just one record in Uncommon to winter of this common winter Cettia diphone SS: one on 25th January. Japanese Bush grassland and open visitor & passage warbler shrubland species. migrant. 329 A Scarce winter visitor, Two records on Tolo 2005: Undated records - two records from Tolo Pond, of birds heard possible breeding Bradypterus seebohmi Pond (M.Chalmers, pers. com.) Russet Bush warbler population
84 HKBWS TPK Headland sp. no. & Cat HK Status Habitat / Notes Status Species 345 A Recorded during 2005: 18th September, one at CP (RB); 11th October, one on GL (RB). 2002-2003, Widespread & nd th Prinia flaviventris presumably breeds abundant resident. SS: 54 bird days, 45 between 22 March and 14 September. Adult noted carrying rd st Yellow-bellied Prinia nearby. faecal sac in tall shrubland on 17th and 23 April. One fledged juvenile noted on 1 May. Very common throughout Headland and sightings not usually noted: 1985: one seen on 29th December (KB, RB). 2002: breeding, one seen on 20th February (RWL, RB). 2005: 19th June, two with young on GL (RB); 24th July, four on GL & CP (RB); 347 A Frequently recorded th th th Abundant & 11 September, one on GL (RB); 11 October, two at CP (RB); 20 November, throughout the year. Orthotomus sutorius widespread resident. two at GL (RB). Common Tailorbird Breeding resident. 2006: 28th January, one at GL (RB); 29th January, two at Girassol (RB); 4th February, one at CP (RB); 31st March, one heard on GL (KB); 19th April, two heard on GL (KB); 20th April, one at CP (KB); 24th April, one on GL (KB); 13th and 14th May, three at CP (RB) preparing for breeding. SS: 176 bird days evenly spread thoughout survey period. Juvenile noted 26th June. 2003: heard below CP on 18th October (RB); one bird seen in CP garden on 22nd October (KB); heard & audio recording below CP & CO on 24th October (KB, MH); one seen and audio recording at CP and the Lookout, associating with Blue- winged Minlas and White-eyes, on 25th October (KB, RB); heard twice same day along GL (RWL); heard again below CP in bird wave on 30th October (KB); one or two heard and one seen along GL associating with two Grey-headed Flycatchers on 1st November (RB); one seen the same day near the Lookout (RB); one seen and heard on the same day at 1pm along GL (KTM); heard morning and afternoon on 2nd November (RB, KB, MC); seen along GL and near the Lookout on 3rd November, 7:30am (MC); heard again the same day (RB); seen and heard near CP Category A, first on 5th November (RB, MK); heard on 6th November (RB); heard along GL on 8th Orthotomus cuculatus First recorded in recorded in HK in c. November (RB); heard near CP along GL on 9th November(RB). 2003, now a regular 1999. Officially Mountain Tailorbird 2004: 11th October, one at GL (RB); also two+ on 16th October, thereafter several winter visitor. added to the HK list throughout the Headland through December, including three+ on 31st October on in 2004. GL & CP. 2005: 1st January, two on GL (RB); 9th January, one on GL (RB); 6th February, several at CP & GL (RB); 6th March, one on GL (RB), still present on 10th March at CP (RB); 9th October, two heard on GL (RB), one heard at CP (RB, KB); 23rd October, one at Girassol (RB); 6th November, one on GL and one at Girassol (KB); 10th November, one at GL and one at CP (RB); 13th November, one at GL (RB); 20th November, one at GL (RB); 22nd November, one at GL (RB); 27th November, two on GL (RB); one on 3rd December at TPIL12 and one at CP (RB). 2006: 13th January on GL (RB); 30th and 31st January, one on GL (RB); 6th to 8th February, one heard on GL (KB, RB); 5th March, one heard on GL (RB). Common autumn 349 A Up to 3 recorded migrant & winter SS: six bird days: one on 22nd March, three on 27th September and one on both during autumn & visitor to the Deep Phylloscopus fuscatus 26th October and 8th December. Dusky Warbler winter of 2002-2003. Bay area, rare elsewhere. Up to 6 of this 2002: six+ along GL on 20th February (RWL, RB). shrubland and 2004: 25th Jaunary, three at GL (RB); 20th November, two at GL (RB), one more 352 A woodland species Uncommon to on 25th (RB). recorded in winter of common winter 2005: 1st January, three on GL (RB). P. proregulus 2002-2003. Was visitor, with some Pallas’s Leaf Warbler presumably evidence of passage. 2006: 1st January, one on GL (RB); 31st January, one on GL (RB); 5th February, two overlooked in on GL (RB); 6th February, one on GL (KB). previous years. SS: 12 bird days in winter between the end of November and the end of March. 1985: four seen on 29th December (KB, RB). th 354 A Presumably annual 2003: seen GL on 25 October (RB). from autumn to Common winter 2005: 9th October, one at CP (RWL, RB); 27th November, one at GL (RB). P. inornatus spring, with peak visitor & spring 2006 th th th Yellow-browed : 7 February, two on GL (RB); 18 March, two on GL (RB); 27 March, one count of 10 in migrant. on GL (KB). Warbler January 2003. SS: 77 bird days. All birds occurring from late autumn to mid spring; Maximum of ten on 29th January. 2000: two+ birds below CP on 17th September. 356 A Passage migrant, Occasional sightings 2004: one at GL on 19th September (RB). P. borealis common in autumn in autumn. 2005: one at GL on 4th October (KB); 9th October, one on GL (RB). Arctic Warbler but scarce in spring. SS: five bird days between 14th and 27th September.
85 HKBWS TPK Headland sp. no. & Cat HK Status Habitat / Notes Status Species 358 A Phylloscopus tenellipes Pale-legged Leaf Autumn migrant Warbler One autumn & one with one spring This species pair is not usually distinguishable in the field (P.J. Leader pers.comm): or spring record of the record & scattered th th species pair. SS: two records: one on 12 April and another on 19 October. 359 A winter records. P. borealoides Sakhalin Leaf Warbler 360 A Passage migrant, 1-2 recent records in uncommon in P. coronatus SS: Two bird days: one on 21st and 27th September (possibly the same individual). Eastern Crowned autumn. autumn, scarce in Warbler spring. 361 A Two records, both Scarce winter visitor. SS: Two bird days: one on 15th and 19th January (possibly the same individual). P. reguloides January 2003. Blyth’s Leaf Warbler Seicercus burkii? Rare winter visitor; species group involves a species One record. complex that can only 2004: one at GL on 25th November (RB). Golden-spectacled be identified with Warbler complex certainty in the hand. 1995: two seen at CP on 5th May (KB, RB). 1996: on 20th October. 1998: three seen on 10th May. 367 A 2000: one seen along CP path for several days from 6th October. Occasional sightings Uncommon passage Muscicapa griseisticta 2003: one at CP on 6th April (RB); two seen CP on 1st May (RB) (photographed). Grey-streaked in spring & autumn. migrant. 2004: one at CP on 17th April (RB). Flycatcher 2005: 9th October, six at CP (KB, RB). 2006: 14th May, one at CP (RB)/ SS: one on 14th May. 368 A 1998: one seen along garden path on 11th October (RB). Uncommon autumn Three records in 2003: one below CP and along garden path on 30th October (KB, RB). Muscicapa sibirica migrant with four autumn. th st Dark-sided spring records. 2005: 26 December, one at Girassol (RB), present to at least 31 December Flycatcher SS: one on 27th September. 1992: one seen on 22nd April. 1998: one seen on 8th November. 369 A Common autumn 2002: seen CP on 29th April (KB). Muscicapa dauurica Occasional sightings: migrant, uncommon 2004: one on 11th September at GL (RB). Asian Brown September-April. winter visitor & 2005 th th th Flycatcher spring migrant. : 9 January, one on GL (RB); 4 October, one on GL (KB); 11 October, one at CP (RB). SS: five bird days from 27th September to 15th January. 1994: seen 23rd January at CO, (RB, KB); 1st February at garage (RB, KB); 10th March in CP garden (KB). 371 A 1996: 13th January; 11th February at Girassol. Up to 2 noted on 10 Scarce winter visitor. 2002: two seen from garden of CO on 13th February (RB); one seen below CP on Eumyias thalassina dates in winter. Verditer Flycatcher 18th February. 2006: 1st January, one on GL (RB). SS: three bird days between 16th November and 11th December. 1997: one injured male at CP on 2nd February; female near Girassol on 7th December. 1998: male near Girassol on 22nd November. th 375 A Uncommon autumn 2003: female in CP garden on 5 November (MK). 7 records: November migrant, scarce 2005 th th Ficedula mugimaki : 19 November, three (female + imm. males) at Girassol (RB); 20 to February. winter visitor & November, two eating seed of Zanthoxylum avicennae at Girassol (RB); 26th Mugimaki Flycatcher spring migrant. November, one at Girassol (RB). 2006: 29th March, one male on GL (RB). SS: one on 23rd November. 1997: one along GL, immature on 19th April (RB). 380 A Uncommon summer 2004: a pair was seen on GL (KB, RWL), 20th April; again on 2nd May (RB) and 4th June. visitor, passage 8 records: April to th th Cyornis hainanus migrant & rare 2005: 1 fledged juvenile near Lookout (MC) on 29 May; 11 June, one on TPIL12 June. th nd Hainan Blue winter visitor. Bred track (RB); 19 June, two at GL and two at the Lookout (RB); 2 July, on TPIL12 Flycatcher in 2005 track, two seen, agitated and making alarm calls (RB). 2006: 4th, 6th, 13th & 14th May, one male on GL (RB).
86 HKBWS TPK Headland sp. no. & Cat HK Status Habitat / Notes Status Species 2001: one below CP on 26th January (RB). 2002: one seen along GL on 20th February (RWL, RB). 2003: one seen at CP on 31st January (RB); one along GL 2nd March (RB); two at GL (with Mountain Tailorbird) on 1st November (RB); same day also seen by (KTM); one along GL on 4th November (RB); one along GL on 8th November (RB). 383 A th th th Up to 3 recorded in 2005: 5 January, one on GL (RB); 11 November, one on GL (RB); 12 Uncommon winter th Culicicapa ceylonensis winter each year November, one on GL, one at Girassol and one at Girassol’s gararge (RB); 14 visitor. th th Grey-headed since 2001. November, one at CP (RB); 26 November, two at Girassol (RB); 27 November, Flycatcher two at CP and one on GL (RB); 26th December, two on GL (RB). 2006: 2nd January, one at CP (RB); 16th Jan, one at CP (KB); 22nd Jan, one on GL (RB); 27th and 28th January, two at GL (RB), one at CP (RB); 30th January, one at CP (RB); 31st January, two on GL (RB); 6th February, two on GL (KB); 7th February, one on GL (KB); 9th, 17th & 18th March, one on GL (RB). SS: 13 bird days from 16th November to 1st March (maximum three on 15th January). 384 A Uncommon winter Hypothymis azurea One record visitor, scarce 2006: 22nd March, one in bamboo at CP (KB). Black-naped Monarch passage migrant 385 A Scarce spring migrant, 1992: one in trees in front of CP on 29th August (RB, KB). commoner in Five records in 2000: one below CP on 23rd August (RB). Terpsiphone paradisi autumn, rare winter autumn. th Asian Paradise visitor; one old 2003: one below GL with a mixed species bird wave on 25 October (RB, KB). Flycatcher breeding record. [LC] 2005: 4th October, one on GL (KB); 9th October, one at CP (RWL, RB). 388 A Irregular & rare Two records in 2006: 5th February, three on GL (RB), a male and female and one juvenile. Parus venustulus irruptive winter winter. SS: one on 29th January. Yellow-bellied Tit visitor. [LC] Always present and breeding with dates only irregularly noted: 1984: one in CP garden on 21st January (KB). 1985: one on 29th December (KB, RB). 2002: indications of breeding, four seen on 20th February (RWL, RB) and observed collecting dog fur on 21st February. nd 389 A Up to 8 recorded Abundant & 2003: four juveniles in birdbath at CP on 2 August (RB); with bird wave below th Parus major throught the year; widespread breeding CP on 30 October (KB). st th th Great Tit thought to breed. resident. 2005: 1 January, two at CP (RB); 11 September, one at CP (RB); 4 October, two on GL (KB); 27th December, three at CP (RB). 2006: 28th January, two on GL (RB); 5th February, two on GL (RB); 6th February, two on GL (KB); 27th March, one on GL, two at CP (KB); 28th March, two at CP (KB); 23rd April, one on GL (KB); 14th May, a pre-breeding pair at CP (RB). SS: 131 bird days evenly spread thoughout survey period (maximum eight on 14th May); one fledged juvenile noted with adults on 1st and 27th May. 1997: a male and immature at Girassol and CP on 2nd February. 1999: one along GL on 1st January. 2000: seen below CP on 8th April and 10th October. Occasional sightings 2003: two seen below CP on 2nd August; two 2 along GL on 12th September (RB); th 390 A of 1-2 of this forest Localised, scarce one with bird wave below CP on 30 October (KB); two seen along GL and TPIL 12 species in all seasons resident population track on 1st November (RB); one in CP garden on 2nd November (KB, RB, MC). Parus spilonotus & in most years since considered to be of 2004: one at CP on 26th December. Yellow-cheeked Tit 1997. captive origin. 2005: 27th November, one at CP (RB); 26th December, two on GL (RB). First recorded 1988. 2006: 14th January, one at CP (RB); 31st January, two at CP (RB); 5th February, two on GL (RB); 6th February, one on GL (KB); 18th & 19th March, one at Girassol (RB); 16th April, two at CP (RB). SS: two records: one on 6th April and one on 31st August. 1999: one seen along GL on 1st January; several seen on 13th June. 2000: four below CP on 13th August and a few at TPIL 12; two+ birds below CP on 17th August and 6th October. 2001: one outside CP on 26th January; one in Crataeva religiosa near CP on 21st July; th A forest species first four along GL on 16 November. 2002 th th rd 391 D recorded in 1999, : two at CP on 27 and 29 January; two below CP on 3 February; two seen since when up to 5 Locally common CO on 13th February; two seen on 20th February (RWL, RB); two at CP 7th April Sitta frontalis have been regularly resident population (RB); one killed by cats 12th April (KB); seen along GL on 9th July (RB); three at Velvet-fronted recorded throughout considered to be of CP 8th July (RB); two at Girassol on 3rd November (RB). captive population. Nuthatch the year. May breed. 2003: two at Girassol on 5th January (RB); two at CP on 31st January (RB); up to First recorded 1989. four seen at Girassol on 16th March, 6th and 12th April (RB); five including three juveniles sunbathing on branch of dead tree CO on 31st May (RB); three at GL and two at CP on 13th July (RB); four at CP on 23rd July (RB); four along GL on 12th September (RB); four along GL on 1st October (RB); two at CP 5th October (RB) and with bird wave below CP on 30th October (KB); two along GL on 1st November (RB); two at CP on 9th November (RB).
87 HKBWS TPK Headland sp. no. & Cat HK Status Habitat / Notes Status Species 2004: 22nd January, four at CP (RB); 2nd May, one seen on GL (RB); four on 4th July at GL (RB); four on 20th November at GL (RB). 2005: 6th March, four on GL (RB); 11th and 19th June, two adults with two juveniles, GL (RB); 8th July, two at CP (RB); 24th July, four at GL (RB), one seen 391 D entering and excavating a hole in dead tree; 4th October, three on GL (KB); 16th October, three at Girassol (RB). Sitta frontalis 2006 st th th Velvet-fronted : 1 January, six at Girassol (RB); 28 January, six on GL (RB); 6 February, two on GL (KB); 7th February, one on GL (KB); 8th February, one on GL (RB); Nuthatch 16th April, two at CP (RB); 18th April, two on GL (KB); 6th May, one at CP (RB); (entry continued) 13th May, two at CP (RB); 16th May, four at CP (RB); 17th May, six, including two juveniles, at CP (RB); 4th June, four, including two juveniles, at CP (RB); 18th June, two on GL, being followed by freeloading Red-whiskered Bulbuls (RB). SS: 17 bird days covering every season. Maximum four (adult with three fledged juveniles) on 27th May. 393 A Scarce but Infrequently seen long ago but dates not recorded. Three records: April, widespread winter Dicaeum ignipectus 1990: single bird observed on 25th December in Girassol (GB, RB, KB). Buff-bellied May & December. vistor & rare breeding SS: two records, one on 17th April and one on 14th May. Flowerpecker species. Frequently heard, always present, dates only irregularly noted, and breeding: 1990: seen on 23rd December. 1992: seen on 23rd March. 1996: several seen for some time on 14th July; Male, Female and juvenile seen on 8th September. 1998: several seen on 11th July. 1999: seen on 16th and 17th February; two seen on 7th March. 2000: juvenile seen on 3rd November. 2002: three, including two females, at Girassol on 31st March (RB). 394 A 2003: male & female feeding on newly discovered plant species (for Hong Kong) Locally common Dendrophthoe pentandra in Girassol garden on 2nd March (RB); seen Girassol on 16th Dicaeum cruentatum Recorded in all breeding resident March (RB); breeding, family seen Girassol garden on 12th April (RB). seasons. Breeding. with some dispersal Scarlet-backed th in winter. 2004: 28 March, small party of adults and juveniles feeding on Dendropthe pentandra Flowerpecker at Girassol (RB); two males in territorial chase on 24th October at Girassol (RB); one along GL on 20th November (RB) and 5th December. 2005: 1st January, two at TPIL12 track (RB); 19th June, two at Girassol (RB); 17th July, one at Girassol (RB); 24th July, two at Girassol (RB); 11th October, two (one juvenile male) at Girassol (RB); 27th November, one at CP (RB). 2006: 31st January, one at CP (RB); 18th Amrch, one at Girassol (RB); 29th March, one at Lookout Link (RB); 8th April, two at CP (RB, KB); 11th & 12th April, one at Girassol (KB); 30th April, two at Girassol (RB); 7th May, one at Girassol (RB); 13th May, one at Girassol (RB); 17th May, 1m + 1f at Girassol (RB). SS: ten bird days in every season (but curiously none from the end of September to early Feb). Adult noted feeding young on 26th April. Seen and heard daily, feeding on Pachystachys lutea, with at least four to six birds in and around CP and Girassol and regularly breeding. 1959: June & July, pair with two young seen on the Headland; late November and December, a pair recorded at Girassol (HK Bird report, 1960) – these were amongst the first HK records. 1999: using bird-bath on 13th May and 20th July; The abundance of 2002: feeding in Quisqualis indica, Girassol on 10th July (RB); flowering plants on 2003: four males & females feeding Girassol & CP on 5th January (RB); seen the Headland is Established as a Girassol on 16th March (RB); six seen CP & Girassol on 13th April (RB); juvenile thought to account breeding bird in HK freed from spider’s-web at CP on 11th September (KB); four along GL on 25th 395 A for the relatively in 1959 (HK Bird October (RB); six in CP garden on 9th November (RB); note: two juveniles killed Aethopyga christinae large concentrations report, 1960). recently by cats upto 9th November; Fork-tailed Sunbird (up to 10) of this Common resident 2004: four at GL on 25th January (RB) and 6 on 27th January (RB) at CP; four on nectar-loving species. with some dispersal 18th November (KB) at CP; one along GL on 20th November (RB); four on 27th Recorded in all in winter. December at CP, feeding on insects (RB). seasons, and st th breeding. 2005: 1 January, one on GL, three at CP (RB); 6 March, one found dead at Girassol, a possible window strike fatality; 11th June, 2 family parties at Girassol (RB); 19th June, six at CP (RB); 17th July, two at GL (RB); 24th July, four at GL & CP (RB); one at GL on 11th September (RB); 4th October, three on GL (RB); 9th October, three on GL (RB); 9th October, one juvenile male at CP (RL+RB); 11th October, four at CP (RB); 23rd October, three at Girassol (RB); 5th November, two at CP (RB); 11th November, two on GL (RB); 19th November, 4+ on GL (RB); 27th December, four at CP (RB).
88 HKBWS TPK Headland sp. no. & Cat HK Status Habitat / Notes Status Species 2006: 1st January, six at CP (RB), 14th January, 4 at CP (RB); 28th January, two at GL (RB); 29th January, three at GL (RB); 5th February, two on GL and two at CP 395 A (RB); 6th February, one heard and a second (immature male) seen on GL (KB); March & April – between two and four birds seen regularly at CP and on GL Aethopyga christinae (KB); 7th May, pair at CP (KB, RB); 13th May, pair at CP (RB); 27th May, three (2m, Fork-tailed Sunbird 1f), 1 male displaying, Girassol (RB); 31st May, four, inc. 2 juveniles at Girassol (entry continued) (RB); 11th June, six at Girassol (RB); 17th June six at Girassol, only one male (RB). SS: 152 bird days evenly spread throughout the survey period (maximum ten on 26th October); female with three fledged juveniles on 27th May. Very common, seen and heard daily, in flocks, and breeding regularly: 1984: CP garden on 21st January (KB); breeding. 2002: 20 seen on 20th February (RWL, RB). 2003: 15+ bathing at CP birdbath on 2nd August (RB). 2004: 10+ bathing at CP birdbath on 6th November (RB); 20+ on GL on 20th November (RB). 2005: 1st January, 20+ at CP (RB); 12th June, 4 at CP (RB); 17th July, eight at CP (RB); 24th July, 4 at CP (RB); 4th October, 16 on GL (RB); 11th October, eight at Girassol Abundant breeding 397 A Up to 50 counted, (RB); 13th October, 20 at Girassol (RB); 11th November, small flock at GL (RB); 13th resident with with records in all November, 20+ at Girassol (RB); 20th November, 20+ on GL (RB); 26th November, Zosterops japonicus increased numbers seasons. Breeding. 25 on GL (RB); 27th December, 15 at CP (RB). Japanese White-eye present in winter. 2006: 29th January, eight in Rhodoleia championi at Girassol (RB); 31st January, 15 in Dombeya wallichii at CP (RB); 5th February, 10+ on GL and 15+ at Girassol (RB); 6th February, two on GL (KB); 7th February, six on GL (KB); 24th March, 34 birds in several small groups throughout the Headland (KB); May – breeding behaviour observed; 3rd May, one observed being hit by a car travelling at about 40 km/h on Lookout Link, the bird eventually flew away. SS: 875 bird days evenly spread throughout the survey period (maximum 50 on 16th November); adult feeding three fledged chicks on 12th and 17th April; one carrying food on 26th April. 400 A Uncommon winter 2006: 5th February, one on GL (RB). Emberiza tristrami Two winter records. visitor. SS: one record: male on 5th February. Tristram’s Bunting 402 A Common passage One record in Tolo migrant & winter 1996: 9th April, two at Tolo Pond (RWL). Emberiza pusilla Pond Little Bunting visitor 407 A Common passage 1992: three birds twice on one day, Girassol garden, feeding on Casuarina seeds on One record in spring. migrant & scarce Emberiza rutila 17th April (GB, KB, RB). Chestnut Bunting winter visitor. 409 A Scarce and irrecgular Two records in Tolo 1996: 9th April, two at Tolo Pond (RWL); 10th April, four on the railway Emberiza sulphurata Sprilng passage Pond embankment. Japanese Yellow migrant Bunting 410 A Very common One record in Tolo passage migrant & 1996: 9th April, three at Tolo Pond (RWL). Emberiza spodocephala Pond common winter Black-faced Bunting visitor Highly localised 415 A resident population Recorded in 1970’s. 1970: 1st February, four seen at Girassol (RB); 6th February, one at Girassol (RB, & infrequent reports Carduelis sinica One recent record in seen many times subsequently. of passage migrants Grey-capped winter. SS: two flew over Lookout on 29th January. Greenfinch or winter visitors; much declined. 417 A Carpodacus erythrinus One record Rare winter visitor 2004: 14th March, one at CP (RB, RWL). Common Rosefinch 1999: four near Girassol on 30th May; two seen on 1st July. 2001: ten on GL on 4th February. 2002: six seen near garage & CP on 27th January. 420 A Up to 6 counted, Common & 2003: six at Girassol on 5th January (RB); two at GL on 1st November (RB). Lonchura striata with records in all widespread breeding 2004: two at GL on 4th July (RB). White-rumped seasons. resident. 2005 st th th th Munia : 1 January, eight on GL (RB); 20 November, six at GL (RB); 26 to 28 November, eight on GL (RB); 27th December, five at CP (RB). 2006: 13th January, 10 on GL (RB); 23rd January, 10 at Girassol and on GL (KB). SS: 29 bird days. Not recorded in summer and autumn until 26th October.
89 HKBWS TPK Headland sp. no. & Cat HK Status Habitat / Notes Status Species 421 A 1992: three birds Girassol garden on 6th April (KB). Four records: Locally common 2005: 1st January, six on GL (RB). Lonchuria punctulata January, March & resident. th Scaly-breasted April. 2006: 9 March, two on GL (RB). Munia SS: seven birds on 15th January. 424 A This species avoids woodland, and has Abundant breeding Formerly more in evidence around dwellings. Passer montanus declined greatly on the resident, commensal th th st Eurasian Tree Headland in recent with man. SS: three records of single birds: on 6 April, 8 December and 1 March. Sparrow years. 427 A 2004: 27th March, one at Girassol (RB). Sturnus sericeus Abundant, but Three records localised, winter 2005: 24th February, 15+ at CP & Girassol (RB). Red-billed Starling visitor 2006: 14th January, seven at Tolo Pond (RB). (=Silky Starling) Formerly nesting in Girassol garden, and scattered around the Headland, up until late 1980s. More recently restricted to the more open valley areas on either side: 433 A A bird of farmland 1985: three fledglings fell from nest in Girassol in July, one was predated by a raptor, Sturnus nigricollis and agricultural edge, which formerly one died within a few hours while the other was hand-reared and survived 14 and ½ th Black-collared occurred as a Abundant resident. years; three seen 29 December (KB, RB). Starling breeding species, but 2003: two at TPIL 12 on 16th March; five+ at Girassol on 27th April (RB). (=Black-necked now, is only 2004: 30th March, a pair at Girassol (RB). Starling) occasionally sighted. 2006: 15th May, one heard at CP (KB). SS: two on 16th November. 434 A Common passage migrant & scarce & Sturnus sinensis One record in spring. localised breeding SS: two on 17th April. White-shouldered summer visitor & Starling winter visitor. [LC] This species avoids 436 A woodland, and has Abundant breeding 1985: four on 29th December (RB, KB). Acridotheres cristatellus declined greatly on the resident. SS: 19 bird days, all in March to May. Crested Mynah Headland in recent years. Nested in at least two years but dates not recorded; a juvenile was killed by a cat one time and the nest destroyed during a typhoon the other: 1967: 10th April, one noted as being “very late this year” (GB) Scarce autumn 1982: heard along GL on 5th April (RB, KB). Formerly annual passage migrant that 1990: two individuals at CP on 12th June (KB). summer visitor with 437 A breeds irregularly. th nesting records in 1991: one bird seen calling at Girassol on 14 April (KB). Became very rare in Oriolus chinensis two years, but not 1992: one seen 24th April (KB). Hong Kong as a Black-naped Oriole recorded in recent th breeding species in 1996: one seen 26 January (KB). years.. the 1990s 2002: one heard at CP on 14th October (RB). 2004: one juvenile seen at CP on 9th June (KB). 2005: 11th October, nine flying low over Girassol then on to Island House (RB). SS: 4 bird days: three on 27th September; one on 1st March. Common summer 438 A visitor & passage Dicrurus macrocercus A single record migrant, regular 2006: 7th May, one perched on a dead tree at TPIL12 (RB). Black Drongo winter visitor in small numbers 1967: found occasionally from spring to autumn at Girassol (GB). 1992: one white-cheeked seen below CP on 16th January (KB). 2003: one white-cheeked seen along GL on 1st November (RB, KTM). 2004: 13th April, one at CP; 16th October, one on track to TPIL 12 and a second at Has become a CP; 5th November through December, one at Girassol; two at GL on 20th November, 439 A regular winter visitor, Scarce but regular & one at CP on 29th December (all RB). Dicrurus leucophaeus with white, grey and widespread winter 2005: 7th January, one at Girassol, same bird as reported on 29th Dec. 2004 (RB); 14th Ashy Drongo black-cheeked forms visitor. February, one at TPIL12 track on top of Casuarina (grey-cheeked individual) (RB); 10th recorded.. March, one at CP (RB), 17th April, one at TPIL12 (white cheeked individual) (RB); 25th September, two at TPIL12 (RB); 11th October, one grey cheeked individual at CP (RB, KB); 15th October, one white faced at CP and one grey faced at GL (RB); 16th October, one dark faced at GL, not the same bird as previous day’s bird (RB); 20th, 23rd and 28th October, one white faced individual at Girassol (RB), this bird was seen regularly between 10th November and 26th December.
90 HKBWS TPK Headland sp. no. & Cat HK Status Habitat / Notes Status Species 2006: 1st January, one at CP (RB); 13th January, one at CP (RB); 16th January, one at Girssol (KB); 31st January, one at CP (white-cheeked) (RB), seen again on 5th and 6th 439 A February (RB, KB); 8th February, one at Girassol (KB) and two (white-cheeked) at Dicrurus leucophaeus TPIL12 (RB); 2nd March, one (white-cheeked) on TPIL12 track (RB); 9th March, one at
Ashy Drongo Girassol (KB); 16th March, one (white-cheeked) at CP (RB); 18th March, one (black- cheeked) on GL (RB); 21st March, (white-cheeked) at CP (RB); 8th April, one at CP (RB, (entry continued) KB); 9th April, one (white-cheeked) at CP (RB); 17th April, one at CP (KB). SS: one on 19th October. 1990: at least six on 12th June. 1996: at least three on 28th June. 1999: two chasing large Accipiter on 13th June; four seen on 1st July; eight including including juveniles on 11th August. 2001: six to eight near garage on 7th April; bunch mobbing raptor in front of CP on 15th April; six seen near CP on 21st July; four seen on 14th October; six to eight seen on 3rd November. 2002: 17 at TPIL 12 on 31st March (RB); four at TPIL 12 on 7th April (RB); eight at CP on 14th April (RB); eight seen TPIL 12 on 1st May (RB). th Following two 2003: eight on Spathodea campanulata at TPIL 12 on 9 February (RB); six seen TPIL th st summer records in 12 on 16 April (RB); six mobbing Jungle Crow at CP on 21 April (RB); 2 drinking th 1990-1996, this from African Tulip Tree flower, Spathodea campanulata, at TPIL 12 on 27 April; six Common breeding th woodland species harassing White-bellied Sea Eagle at TPIL 12 on 12 September (RB); 24 feeding on 440 A species & passage th has greatly increased Eucalyptus blossom, GL on 25 October (RWL, KB, RB); with bird wave below CP Dicrurus hottentottus migrant, small th nd th since 1999, with on 30 October (KB); seen CP on 2 November (RB); eight at GL on 4 November numbers are regular th Hair-crested Drongo records in all months (RB); eight along GL on 6 November (RB). in winter. th th th and a peak count of 2004: flock at TPIL12 on 30 March (RB); 5 April, eight at GL (RB); 17 April, 24 in October 2003. four on GL (RB); 16th October, 10 on track to TPIL 12 (RB); eight+ on 6th Very likely breeds. November at CP (RB). 2005: 1st January, three at CP (RB); 7th April, 12 at CP (KB); 8th July, two at Girassol (RB); 11th October, one at Girassol (RB); 13th October, one at Girassol (RB); 23rd October, six at Girassol (RB); 5th November, 6 flying around TPIL12 and CP (RB); 13th November, five at TPIL12 (RB); 26th November, six at CP (RB); 27th December, three on GL (RB). 2006: 6th February, one heard on GL (KB); 29th March, four on GL (RB); 9th April, two on GL (RB); 17th April one on GL and one at Girassol (RB); 30th April, one at Girassol (RB); 6th June, at CP (KB). SS: 82 bird days throughout the year (maximum of 11 on three dates). Juvenile noted on 26th June. Many sightings but dates not normally recorded: 1996: several on 28th June. 442 A Occasional sightings Common resident, 1999: several on 30th May; four seen on 1st October. Urocissa erythrorhyncha of up to 4 especially on HK 2000: two seen at Girassol on 1st May (RB). Blue Magpie throughout the year. Island & Lantau. 2004: several seen at CP on 4th April (RB). 2006: 24th April, one at CP (MD). SS: six bird days, (maximum of three on 30th July) spread throughout the year. 1968: 30th January, one at Girassol (GB); 10th November, three at Girassol (GB). 1970: 4th January, one at Girassol (RB) 443 A Formerly an irruptive 2003: one in banyan in CP garden on 6th November (RB). One recent record in winter visitor, but nd th th Dendrocitta formosae November. since 1983 also a 2004: two on 2 August at GL (RB), again on 15 August, one at Girassol on 5 th Grey Treepie scarce resident. December and two at GL on 29 December (RB). 2005: 11th October, one at Girassol, at edge of forest (RB); 15th October, two on GL (RB). 2006: January 30th, one heard on GL (RB); February 6th, two seen and heard on GL (RB, KB). Previous unrecorded sightings, more frequent in past. 444 A Occasional sightings, Common & 1985: four seen on 29th December. Pica pica mainly in summer & widespread breeding 2006: 15th May, two at CP (KB). Common Magpie autumn. resident. SS: five bird days between May and November.
91 HKBWS TPK Headland sp. no. & Cat HK Status Habitat / Notes Status Species 1999: six at TPIL 12 on 26th June and on 1st July. 2000: seen at TPIL 12 harassing kites on 10th November. 2001: seven on TPIL 12 trees on 28th January. 2002: two at TPIL 12 and CP on 3rd February; four at TPIL 12 for weeks on 7th February. Common & 447 A nd th th Occasional sightings widespread breeding 2003: two seen at CP on 2 March and 13 April; three at CP on 14 July; four Corvus macrorhynchus th of up to eight, resident that harassing White-bellied Sea Eagle TPIL 12 on 12 September; eight below CP & down th Large-billed Crow throughout the year. colonised HK in the to TPIL 12 on 5 October (all RB). (=Jungle Crow) 1930s. 2005: 24th and 27th February, one at CP (RB); in October, one on GL (KB, 4th); 11th, two at CP (RB); 15th, two on GL (RB); 23rd, two at Girassol (RB). 2006: 22nd March, four overhead, above CP (KB); 24th, 30th, 31st March, one overhead, above CP (KB); 19th, 20th & 30th April, three at Girassol (KB, RB). SS: 21 bird days spread throughout the study period. 1985: one bird on 29th December. 2000: two birds in the Lookout area on 17th December (RB). 2002: one seen in dead trees at TPIL 12 over a few days from 12th February; two over CP on 1st March; seven along Yau King Lane on 8th March. Uncommon & 2003: two at TPIL 12 for more than 2 weeks from 31st January (RB); two at TPIL 12 on 448 A One or two localised resident, 16th March; Two juveniles at TPIL 12 on 21st April (RB). occasionally sighted Corvus torquatus most frequent in the th th in winter. 2004: 14 March, possible nesting pair at TPIL 12 (RB); 17 April, still present at Collared Crow Deep Bay area. same site (RB); two at TPIL12 on 29th December (RB). 2005: 25th September, one at TPIL12 (RB). 2006: 29th January, three at Girassol (RB); 6th February, one at TPIL12 (KB); 19th April, one at Girassol (KB). SS: seven bird days between January and April. 707 E Category E. 1980s: a solitary bird on the track to TPIL 12 (GB). Phasianus colchicus Two records. Occasionally 2000:a pair of birds observed separately and together over several days (photo) Common Pheasant reported. from 31st Oct until 5th November (RB). 728 E 2001: first heard along steep part of GL on 10th and 14th June; heard and audio One present June- recording 15th June (RB); seen and heard on Banyan tree at CP for one hour on Category E Megalaima asiatica July 2001. 17th June (KB, RB); in Crataeva religiosa on 6th July and Banyan tree on 8th July and Blue-throated Barbet continued to visit the area for the remainder of the month. 1990: one heard on 12th June. 797 E 1999: heard on and off for several weeks starting 1st April. Occasionally Category E 2001: a pair seen near CP on 18th March. Garrulax religiosa recorded. Hill Mynah 2002: heard above garage on 17th February and heard near CP on 14th April (RB). 2003: two seen CP on 17th March.
92 13.5 HERPETOFAUNA List order and HK status follow Karsen et al. (1998) and Lau & Dudgeon (1999). Amphibians – 9 species. Records by Michael Lau (ML), 2 surveys (22nd July 1999, 9th April 2003); Ruy, Karen, Leo and Gloria Barretto (RB, KB, LB, GB), Roberto Digma (RD), Mike Kilburn (MK). Reptiles – 26 species; (n) native to Hong Kong. Records by Michael Lau (ML) 2 surveys (22nd July 1999, 9th April 2003); John Martin (JM), Ruy, Karen, Leo and Gloria Barretto (RB, KB, LB, GB), Roberto Digma (RD), Mike Kilburn (MK), Clive Lau (CL), Ron Clibborn-Dyer (RC-D). Key to locations on table: CP: Casa Pequena; TPIL 12: Tai Po Inland Lot 12; CO: Casa Orquidia; GL: Girassol Lane. Order Suborder Family Scientific Name Author HK Status Site Status Comment English Name AMPHIBIA Anura Bufonidae Bufo melanostictus Schneider, 1799 (n) widespread Present all Regularly seen along GL, in gardens and around dwellings. Asian Common Toad & abundant year 2003: many tadpoles seen by ML on survey on 9th Apri. Anura Ranidae Some unrecorded sightings. Rana guentheri Boulenger, 1882 (n) Present 2002: 23rd April dried specimen (GB) – confirmed by ML. Gunther’s Frog 2003: 14th July, in pond (RB). 2001: 11th March at 8pm in front of CP on path and three more at pond, rainy night (photos); 12th to 14th March, Identified the call and realized this Rana latouchii Boulenger, 1899 has been heard over a long period. (n) Present Brown Wood Frog 2003: 23rd March five to six at CP pond (KB, RB); 9th April six males and some tadpoles on survey by ML. 2004: 1st February, four at CP pond (RB). Occasionally seen in small ponds in CP and Girassol gardens. Rana limnocharis Boie, 1834 (n) Present 2002: 6th October, one seen on lawn at Girassol (RCK) Paddy Frog 2004: 19th September, one seen at Girassol (RB) Rana taipehensis VanDenburgh, 1909 (sporadic One record 2005: 3rd April, one seen in pond near vegetable garden, Girassol (RB). Two-striped Grass Frog records) Rana rugulosa Wiegmann, 1834 (n) Present Occasionally seen along GL; more frequently heard calling. Chinese Bullfrog Anura Rhacophoridae Breeding, habitat enhancement program; Polypedates megacephalus Hallowell, 1861 (n) abundant Present all 1999: 22nd July Survey by ML, Many tadpoles noted in pots in garden. Brown Tree Frog & widespread year 2003: many foam nests and tadpoles noted by ML on survey of 9th April. 2006: 6th May, 14 seen around Girassol (RB, KB). Anura Microhylidae 2002: March seen and calling. Kaloula pulchra Gray 1831 Present all (n) 2003: March heard; July seen & heard; November seen in earth in a flowerpot. Asiatic Painted Frog year 2006: 6th May, four seen around Girassol (RB, KB, RK). Microhyla pulchra (Hallowell, 1861) (n) Present Seen but no records kept. Marbled Pygmy Frog REPTILIA Testudinidae Emydidae Trachemys scripta elegans (Wied, 1838) Has been found a couple of times in the vicinity: (int) Present Red-eared Slider 2003: 11th September found walking along upper GL (KB). Squamata Lacertilia Gekkonidae Gehyra mutilata (Wiegmann, 1834) Present all (n) 1999: seen16th September (GB). Four-clawed Gecko year 1999: 22nd July Survey by ML: retaining wall in forest – eight eggs; TPIL 12 – Gekko chinensis (Gray, 1842) Present all two adults. (n) Chinese Gecko year 2000: July, photo (GB). 2003: some eggs seen on 9th April survey by ML. Hemidactylus bowringii (Gray, 1845) Present all (n) Seen but no records kept. Bowring’s Gecko year
93 Order Suborder Family Scientific Name Author HK Status Site Status Comment English Name Squamata Lacertilia Agamidae 1999: 22nd July Survey by ML: eggs seen in Girassol garden; 16th September Calotes versicolour (Daudin, 1802) Present all (n) seen (GB); (undated photo). Changeable Lizard year 2000: 5th November, old adult, (GB). Squamata Lacertilia Lacertidae Takydromus sexlineatus ocellatus (Guerin-Meneville, 1829) (n) Sighted Seen but no records kept. Grass Lizard Squamata Lacertilia Scincidae Eumeces chinensis (Gray, 1838) (n) Present Seen but no records kept. Chinese Skink (n) restricted to central NT; Sphenomorphus indicus (Gray, 1853) 1999: 22nd July Survey by ML: Forest – two adults and six juveniles; fairly good Present Forest/plantation - one juvenile. Brown Forest Skink forest (ML pers.comm) Squamata Serpentes Boidae 2000: 30th October, seen at bus stop at entrance to Lookout Link (MD). Python molurus bivittatus Kuhl, 1820 2003: 9th August, seen by rubbish depot attendant near junction Lookout link (n) Present Burmese Python and GL. 2004: (undated) a six metre long individual seen on GL (CL, pers. com.) Squamata Serpentes Colubridae 2001: 23rd August, Girassol, near garage in the evening (KB, MD). Achalinus rufescens Boulenger, 1888 (n) Present 2003: 7th July at 7:30pm, roadside, GL (KB, RB). Rufous Burrowing Snake 2005: 2nd May, GL (RB); 12th October, juvenile killed on GL (RB). Infrequently seen and dates not usually recorded: th Cyclophiops major (Gunther, 1858) 2001: 28 August female with 9 eggs accidentally killed by car along GL - (n) Present eggs collected and sent to KFBG. Greater Green Snake 2005: 22nd June, one killed on GL (RB); 10th November, juvenile killed on GL (RB). 1999: 2nd September 10:30pm: entrance to GL (KB, RB). Elaphe porphyracea nigrofasciata (Cantor, 2000: 15th November 2:30pm: on Girassol lawn an individual 100cm in 1839) (n) Present length; 18th November 2:40pm: near garage an individual 60cm in length Red Mountain Racer (KB, RB). 2005: 25th July, one juvenile (45cm) at Girassol (RB), photographed. Elaphe radiata (Schlegel, 1837) Has infrequently been seen in the distant past though dates were not (n) Present Copperhead Racer recorded. Lycodon ruhstrati (Fischer, 1886) Infrequently seen in the distant past though dates were not recorded. (n) Present Mountain Wolf Snake 2006: 29th April, one (110cm in length) seen on GL at 23:00 (RB, KB) th Oligodon cinereus (Günther, 1864) Two 2005: 9 November, 21:30, a 45 cm adult killed by car at Girassol garage (n) (RB), specimen photographed and preserved (colln. KFBG); 18th November, Golden Kukri Snake records one at Girassol at 10:00 (KB). 1999: 10th June an individual along GL (KB, RB). th Oligodon formosanus (Günther, 1872) 2002: 11 July near dwellings CP a juvenile about 21cm was captured, (n) Present photographed and released (KB); 2nd September 8am at CP near soil-heap in Taiwan Kukri Snake the garden an individual about 45cm (RB). 2003: 25th June 7pm in Girassol garage (photo) (KB, RB). 1970: 10th May at Girassol (RB). Pareas margaritophorus (Jan, 1866) 2001: 10th May an individual was caught then released at Girassol (GB). (n) Sighted White-spotted Slug Snake 2002: 29th February in Girassol garden; 28th March at Girassol in the compost heap (MD); 13th May on Girassol verandah. 1996: 11th September at Girassol and recorded on video (RB); 17th September one individual captured at CP then released (KB). 1999: 17th September one at CP. 2001: 15th October 30cm individual at CP, photo taken (KB, RB). Psammodynastes pulverulentus 2002:12 th March one in grounds of TPIL 12 (KB, RB, MK). (Boie, 1827) (n) Present 2003: 21st November 30cm individual at Girassol (RB, KB, GB, RC-D). Mock Viper 2004: 15th August, one at CP (RB); 19th September, a juvenile found killed on GL (RB); one on 27th September at CO (Kempis, rec.). 2005: 28th October, one photographed at CP (RB). 2006: 16th June, one killed on GL (MD); 17th June, one on GL, some 75cm long (RB)
94 Order Suborder Family Scientific Name Author HK Status Site Status Comment English Name Ptyas korros (Schlegel, 1837) (n) Present Occasionally seen over the years but records of dates not kept. Indo-Chinese Rat Snake Occasionally seen over the years but records of dates not kept; one undated Ptyas mucosus (Linnaeus, 1758) (n) [PRC] – photo: common in Present 2003: 12th October 11am one along TPIL 12 access track (RB). Common Rat Snake open habitats 2005: 20th June, one at CP (RB). Rhabdophis subminiatus helleri Most common snake near residences: Present all (Schmidt, 1925) (n) 2002: 23rd April a juvenile (GB) - identified by ML. year Red-necked Keelback 2006: 13th May, one (105cm length) at CP (RB). (n) [LC] – Very infrequently seen. One or two additional sightings though dates not Sibynophis chinensis (Gunther, 1889) quite recorded: uncommon; Sighted 1999: 6th September an individual 15cm at Girassol (RD) - specimen sent to Chinese Mountain Snake found in moist KFBG. 2° forest Squamata Serpentes Colubridae Xenochropis piscator Most years juveniles are seen in habitat enhancement ponds: Present all (Schneider, 1799) (n) 1980s: one sighting only of a large individual in Girassol garden (KB). year Checkered Keelback 1999: 21st November large individual on GL at junction with TPIL 12 (CL, JM). Squamata Serpentes Elapidae Very infrequently seen; along GL - a few nocturnal sightings: Bungarus fasciatus (Schneider, 1801) (n) Present 1998: 26th September (KB, RB). Banded Krait 2005: 10th July, one on GL (RC-D). Seen frequently along GL & near garage at night: 1999: 23rd September 11:30pm near large Casuarina along upper GL (KB, RB). 2000: 29th August 12mn near junction of GL and TPIL 12. 2001: 23rd June 8:30pm along GL (KB, RB); 8th August a large snake, seen shedding skin behind CP, 8:30pm, photos taken (KB, RB); 24th August 9pm lower part of GL; 8th September, lower GL; 21st September 7:30pm large snake, lower GL; 28th September 1am on lower GL; 11th October 10pm small snake, lower GL; 20th October along lower GL. 2002: 9th August 10:30pm an individual 140cm at CP, caught, re-located to TPK by Paul Crow (KFBG); 6th September 12am an individual found dead on Bungarus multicinctus Blyth, 1860 th th (n) Present GL (KB, RB); 12 September, 9pm large individual on GL (RB); 29 Many-banded Krait September 11:30pm an individual of 107cm at CP; 30th September 8:30pm at CP and photos taken (KB, RB); and skin found of 107cm; 12th October, 8am an individual of 107cm fell on KB and then was killed by the gardener (observed that this is not a fresh skin). 2003: 19th July 10pm a 100cm individual along GL (KB, RB); 13th September 9pm seen along path to CP (RB, KB, RWL); 21st September 7pm, 10:30pm & 2am: two individuals seen along GL on the same evening (KB, RB, LB); 23rd September 9:30pm one individual along GL (KB, RB); 14th November at 11pm an individual seen along GL even though quite a cool evening (KB, RB). 2004: one on 31st May at CP (RB); 19th September, one at CP (RB); one on 27th September at CO (EK.). Seasonal with some years more sightings than others; most sightings not recorded: 2000: 25th August, shed skin from Girassol identified by ML. 2003: 23th May 9:30pm along GL swallowing large toad (KB, RB); 14th July Naja atra Cantor, 1842 9:30pm an individual 107cm in garage (KB, RB). (n) Present Chinese Cobra 2004: 16th April, a five foot specimen at CP (RB) and a second, pale specimen, at Girassol (RB). 2005: 20th June, one at CO (RB). 2006: 21st June, one at Girassol, some 165cm long (RD). Squamata Serpentes Viperidae The most common snake seen in the gardens and along GL though most sightings have not been recorded: 2002: 19th & 20th September at CP on verandah pergola (KB, RB). Trimeresurus albolabris (Gray, 1842) Present all 2003: 6th and 8th November 100cm individual along CP garden path (KB, RB). (n) Bamboo Snake year 2004: one on 15th August at CP (RB), a juvenile. 2005: 20th June, one at CP (RB); 10th November, one on GL, 65cm long (RB). 2006: 10th March, one (~ 100cm length) killed by a car on GL (RB); 6th May, one at Girassol, 21:00 (RB, KB).
95 13.6 INSECTS
13.6.1 Beetles species records collected by R. & G.Barretto Superfamily Family Subfamily Species Caraboidea Carabidae Chlaenius bimaculatus Caraboidea Carabidae Aephnidius adelioidea Caraboidea Cicindelidae Cicindelinae Cicindela separata Caraboidea Cicindelidae Cicindelinae Cicindela sp. Caraboidea Cicindelidae Collyrinae Collyris sp. Caraboidea Cicindelidae Tricondyla pulchripes Caraboidea Dytiscidae Colymbetinae Rhantus suturalis (MacLeay, 1825) Chrysomeloidea Cerambycidae Cerambycinae Perissus asperatus Gressitt, 1951 Chrysomeloidea Cerambycidae Cerambycinae Perissus hooraianus Gressitt, 1951 Chrysomeloidea Cerambycidae Lamiinae Aristobia hispida (Saunders, 1863) Chrysomeloidea Cerambycidae Lamiinae Batocera rubus (Linnaeus, 1758) Chrysomeloidea Cerambycidae Aegosoma marginale Chrysomeloidea Cerambycidae indet. A Chrysomeloidea Cerambycidae indet. B Chrysomeloidea Cerambycidae Priotyrannus closteroides Chrysomeloidea Cerambycidae Pterolophia annulata Chrysomeloidea Cerambycidae Rhytidodera bowringi Chrysomeloidea Cerambycidae Uraecba angustra Chrysomeloidea Cerambycidae Xystrocera globosa Chrysomeloidea Chrysomelidae Halticinae Podontia lutea (Olivier, 1790) Chrysomeloidea Chrysomelidae Mimasta oblonga Chrysomeloidea Chrysomelidae Abirus fortunei Cucujoidea Coccinellidae Coccinellinae Cheilomenes sexmaculata (Fabricius, 1781) Cucujoidea Coccinellidae Coccinellinae Illeis confusa Timberlake, 1843 Cucujoidea Coccinellidae indet. Curculionoidea Scolytidae Ipinae Ambiosiodmus lewisi (Blandford) Curculionoidea Scolytidae Ipinae Xyleborinus sp. Curculionoidea Scolytidae Ipinae Xylosandrus crassiusculus (Motchulsky) Elateroidea Elateridae Oxynopterinae Campsosternus auratus (Drury, 1773) Elateroidea Elateridae Agonichius obscuripes Elateroidea Lampyridae Lampyrinae Pyrocoelia sp.nr. praetexta Olivier, 1911 Elateroidea Lampyridae Ototretinae Stenocladius sp. Elateroidea Lampyridae Luciolinae Luciola sp. Elateroidea Lampyridae Luciolinae Curtos sp. Elateroidea Lampyridae Sp. indet. Scarabaeoidea Dynastidae Xylotrupes gideon (Linnaeus, 1761) Scarabaeoidea Melolonthidae Maladera orientalis (Motchulsky, 1857) Scarabaeoidea Scarabaeidae ?Phyllophage sp. nr. protracta Scarabaeoidea Scarabaeidae Anomala sp. Scarabaeoidea Scarabaeidae Apogonia cribicollis Scarabaeoidea Scarabaeidae Cyphochilus apicalis Scarabaeoidea Scarabaeidae Holotrichia geilenkenseri Scarabaeoidea Scarabaeidae indet. Scarabaeoidea Scarabaeidae Sophrops cephalotes Tenebrionoidea Tenebrionidae Tenebrioninae Encyalesthus sinensis Hope, 1842 Cantheridae Macrosilis laticollis Colymbetinae Rhantus suturalis (MacLeay, 1825) Meloidae Epicauta tibialis indet. indet.
96 13.6.2 Ants, Wasps & Bees Formicidae records by S.K.Yamani & K. Eguchi (SKY/KE – 25 ix 2000), J.R. Fellowes (JRF - 22 vii 1999) or G.Barretto; status of Formicidae follows Fellowes (pers. com.); Other species records collected by G.Barretto
FAMILY - SUBFAMILY Recorded (by): TPK Headland Status HK Status Species FORMICIDAE - PONERINAE (7 SPECIES) Odontoponera denticulata (JRF); (SKY/KE) very common Diacamma sp. nr. rugosum (JRF); (SKY/KE) very common Pachycondyla sp. 23 of SKY (SKY/KE) uncertain Pachycondyla sp.nr. javana (SKY/KE) very common Pachycondyla rufipes (SKY/KE) common common Pachycondyla luteipes (SKY/KE) common Pachycondyla chinensis (JRF); (SKY/KE) uncertain FORMICIDAE - MYRMICINAE (13 SPECIES) Mayriella transfuga (JRF) uncommon Pheidole noda (JRF); (SKY/KE) very common Pheidole rinae incensa (JRF); (SKY/KE) very common Pheidole rinae hongkongensis (SKY/KE) common ? Pheidole rinae taipoana (SKY/KE) common ? Pheidole sp. A of KE (SKY/KE) unknown Pheidole sp. B of KE (SKY/KE) unknown Calyptomyrmex sp. 6 of SKY (SKY/KE) rare – forest species Pristomyrmex pungens (SKY/KE) Recurvidis sp 1 of JRF (JRF) uncommon Monomorium sp. 1 of SKY (SKY/KE) very common Vollenhovia sp 1 of JRF (cf. emeryi) (JRF); (SKY/KE) quite common Crematogaster sp. (SKY/KE) unknown FORMICIDAE - DOLICHODERINAE (2 SPECIES) Tapinoma indicum (SKY/KE) uncommon Tapinoma sp 1 of JRF (JRF) very common FORMICIDAE - FORMICINAE (8 SPECIES) Anoplolepis gracilipes (SKY/KE) very common Paratrechina sauteri (JRF) common Paratrechina sp. 9 of JRF (nr. indica) (JRF); (SKY/KE) very common Paratrechina sp. aff. bourbonica (SKY/KE) common Oecophylla smaragdina (JRF); (SKY/KE) common Camptonotus nicobarensis (JRF); (SKY/KE) common very common Poyrachis latona (SKY/KE) quite common Polyrachis tyrannica (JRF); (SKY/KE) very common FORMICIDAE - UNPLACED (4 SPECIES) Bothroponera sp. Dorylus orientalis indet. indet. EVANIIDAE - EVANIINAE (1 SPECIES) Evania appendigaster one record ?
97 FAMILY - SUBFAMILY Recorded (by): TPK Headland Status HK Status Species MYMARIDAE - UNPLACED (4 SPECIES) Anaphes sp. new genus to HK Gonatocerus sp. 1 new genus to HK Gonatocerus sp. 2 Mymar sp. nr. taprobanicum Ward new genus to HK VESPIDAE - VESPINAE (2 SPECIES) Vespa bicolor resident common Vespa ducalis Smith, 1852 resident SPHECIDAE (1 SPECIES) Chalybion sp. Vespa ducalis Smith, 1852 resident APIDAE - APINAE (2 SPECIES) Apis cerana indica resident common Apis mellifera resident common
13.6.3 Crickets, Mole Crickets, Grashoppers & Katydids species records collected by G.Barretto
Superfamily Family Subfamily Species Acridoidea Acrididae Cyrtacanthacridinae Chondracris rosea (DeGeer, 1773) Acridoidea Acrididae Cyrtacanthacridinae Patanga succincta (Linnaeus, 1763) Acridoidea Acrididae Oedipodinae Heteropternis respondens (Walker, 1859) Acridoidea Acrididae Oedipodinae Trilophidia annulata (Thunberg, 1815) Grylloidea Gryllidae Gryllinae Teleogryllus mitratus (Burmeister, 1838) Tettigonoidea Mecopodidae Mecopodinae Mecopoda elongata (Linnaeus, 1758) Tettigonoidea Phaneropteridae Phaneropterinae Elimaea punctifera (Walker, 1869) Tettigonoidea Tettigoniidae Callimenellus fumidus Tettigonoidea Tettigoniidae Tegra novae-hollandiae viridinotata Catantopidae indet.
13.6.4 Dragonflies species record collected by G.Barretto
Superfamily Family Subfamily Genus & species Libelluloidea Libellulidae Trameinae Pantala flavescens (Fabricius, 1798)
98 13.6.5 Butterflies & Moths order and HK status follows Bascombe et al., 1999) (order) and Walthew (1996) (status) for butterflies and Galsworthy et al. (in prep.) for moths – 84 butterfly species, 495 moth species; records by G.T. Reels (GTR - 1999), J.Kiu (JK - 3 viii 1998), R.C. Kendrick (RCK), R., K. & G. Barretto; R. Digma, Melanie & Elena (RME – x, xi 1999; i 2000)
FAMILY - SUBFAMILY Recorded (by): TPK Headland Status HK Status Species HESPERIIDAE (15 SPECIES) Bibasis sp 5 vi 1998 rare Bibasis oedipodea 16 v 1998 rare uncommon Caltoris bromus 13 x 2000 one record common Celaenorrhinus leucocera 9 ix 1997; 13 x 1998; (RME); 24 vi resident colony very rare [LC] 2000 Erionotus torus Oct 2000 one record uncommon Hasora badra 29 vi 2000 rare rare [LC] Hasora sp (GTR) rare --- [LC] Iambrix salsala (GTR) rare uncommon Matapa aria (GTR) rare uncommon Notocrypta curvifascia (RME) rare uncommon Parnara guttata (GTR) rare common Parnara sp (GTR) rare --- Polytremis lubricans (GTR) rare common Tagiades litigiosus (GTR) rare common Udaspes folus (RME) one record rare PAPILIONIDAE (11 SPECIES) Graphium agamemnon (GTR); (RME) common very common Graphium (Pathysa) antiphates (GTR); (RME) common common Graphium sarpedon (GTR); (JK); (RME) common very common Papilio bianor (GTR); (RME) common common Papilio (Chilasa) clytia 13 xii 1999 (larvae); (GTR); (RME) uncommon common Papilio demoleus (GTR) uncommon common Papilio helenus (GTR); (RME) common very common Papilio memnon (GTR) common very common Papilio paris (GTR); (JK); (RME) very common very common Papilio polytes (JK); (RME) very common very common Papilio protenor (GTR); (RME) common common PIERIDAE (12 SPECIES) Appias albina (GTR); (RME) uncommon very rare [LC] Catopsilia pomona (GTR); (JK); (RME) common common Catopsilia pyranthe (GTR) uncommon common Cepora nerissa (RME) rare uncommon Delias hyparete (RME) rare uncommon Delias pasithoe (RME) common common Dercas verhuelli (GTR) uncommon uncommon Eurema blanda (GTR); (RME) common common Eurema hecabe (GTR); (JK); (RME) common very common Eurema laeta (GTR) uncommon uncommon Hebomoia glaucippe (GTR); (RME); (GB) common common Pieris canidia (RME) common common
99 FAMILY - SUBFAMILY Recorded (by): TPK Headland Status HK Status Species LYCAENIDAE - THECLINAE (7 SPECIES) Artipe eryx (GTR) uncommon uncommon Iraota timoleon (RME) uncommon uncommon Jamides bochus (GTR); (RME) common common Jamides celeno (GTR); (RME) common uncommon Remelana jangala (RME) uncommon uncommon Tajuria cippus 3 x 2000 one record rare [LC] Tajuria maculata 10 v 1998 one record very rare [LC] LYCAENIDAE - POLYOMMATINAE (4 SPECIES) Acytolepis puspa (GTR); (JK); (RME) common common Chilades lajus (GTR) uncommon very common Lampides boeticus (RME) rare common Zizeeria maha (JK); (RME) common very common LYCAENIDAE - RIODININAE (2 SPECIES) Abisara echerius (GTR); (RME) very common very common Zemeros flegyas (RME) common common NYMPHALIDAE - AMATHUSINAE (1 SPECIES) Faunis eumius (GTR); (RME) common common NYMPHALIDAE - NYMPHALINAE (9 SPECIES) Argyreus hyperbius iii 2006 (RCK) one record common Cupha erymanthis (GTR); (JK); (RME) common very common Cyrestis thyodamas (RME) common common Euthalia phemius (GTR); (RME); (RB) common uncommon Hestina assimilis (GTR); (RME) common common Hypolimnas bolina (GTR) common common Junonia iphita (GTR); (RME); (RCK) common uncommon Junonia lemonias (GTR); (RME) common uncommon Kaniska canace (RME) common common NYMPHALIDAE - CHARAXINAE (2 SPECIES) Charaxes bernardus (GTR) common Polyura athamas iii 1999 one record uncommon NYMPHALIDAE - LIMENITINAE (7 SPECIES) Athyme selenophora (GTR); (RME) common common Athyme nefte (GTR); (RME) common common Neptis clinia (GTR) uncommon common Neptis hylas (GTR); (RME) common very common Pantoporia hordonia (GTR) uncommon common Parathyma sulpitia (RME) one record uncommon Phaedyma columella (GTR) uncommon common NYMPHALIDAE - DANAINAE (6 SPECIES) Danaus genutia (RME) uncommon common Euploea core (GTR); (RME) common very common Euploea midamus (GTR); (JK); (RME) common very common Ideopsis similis (GTR); (JK); (RME) common very common Parantica aglea (GTR); (JK); (RME) common common Tiramula limniace (JK); (RME) rare common
100 FAMILY - SUBFAMILY Recorded (by): TPK Headland Status HK Status Species NYMPHALIDAE – SATYRINAE (8 SPECIES) Elymnias hypermnestra 8 vi 1984 one record common Lethe europa (RME) one record uncommon Melanitis phedima 26 vi 1999 one record uncommon Melanitis leda (GTR); (RME) common common Mycalesis mineus (GTR) uncommon very common Mycalesis zonata 2 x 2000 one record common Ypthima baldus (GTR); (JK); (RME) common common Ypthima lisandra (GTR); (JK) common very common URANIIDAE – URANIINAE Lyssa zampa 29 vii, 15 viii 1999; 10, 31 viii, 9, 12 ix common common 2000 (all daytime records) GEOMETRIDAE – ENNOMINAE Myrteta sericea 2 xii 1998 scarce SPHINGIDAE – SPHINGINAE Acherontia lachesis v, vii 1998 (larvae) common Psilogramma sp. ? increta vi 2000 (larva) common NOCTUIDAE – CATOCALINAE Anisoneura aluco 4 iv 2000 uncommon Ischyja manlia 28 viii 1998 common
The moths in the table above represent isolated records of daytime observations. The following table list species recorded coming to lights at Girassol or to mercury vapour light traps of the “Skinner” design (Fry & Waring, 1996) run on the lawn of Girassol. Moth status is according to Kendrick (2002) (see Table 7.2)
List of Moths (alphabetical order by taxa)
HK Status & Abundance Incidence Family Subfamily species Species Author(s) Distribution Total Total Alucitidae --- Alucita spilodesma (Meyrick, 1907) u, l 1 1 Arctiidae --- Syntomoides imaon (Cramer, 1780) c, w 3 2 Arctiinae Amsactoides solitarius (Wileman, 1910) s, rd 1 1 Baroa vatala Swinhoe, 1894 f, w 3 3 Creatonotus transiens (Walker, 1855) c, w 13 10 Nyctemera adversata (Schaller, 1788) c, w 3 3 Spilosoma obliqua Walker, 1855 f, w 1 1 Lithosiinae Barsine striata (Bremer & Grey, 1852) vc, w 10 9 Brunia antica (Walker, 1854) vc, w 16 7 Cyana alborosea (Walker, 1864) c, w 4 3 Cyana fasciola (Elwes, 1890) f, l 2 2 Diduga flavicostata (Snellen, 1878) c, w 5 4 Eilema fuscodorsalis (Matsumura, 1930) c, w 10 3 Eugoa bipunctata (Walker, 1862) f, w 3 3 Eugoa brunnea Hampson, 1914 f, l 1 1 Lyclene alikangiae (Strand, 1917) c, w 18 8 Lyclene arcuata Moore, 1882 f, w 1 1 Microlithosia shaowuica Daniel, 1954 f, l 2 2 Miltochrista dentifascia Hampson, 1894 f, w 1 1 Schistophleps bipuncta Hampson, 1891 vc, w 9 6 Tigrioides immaculata (Butler, 1880) c, w 5 4 Blastobasidae --- Blastobasis sp. A c, w 1 1 Blastobasis sp. B dd (r, rd) 1 1
101 HK Status & Abundance Incidence Family Subfamily Species Author(s) species Distribution Total Total Bombycidae Bombycinae Trilocha varians (Walker, 1855) f, w 1 1 Cosmopterigidae --- Cosmopterix aculeata Meyrick, 1909 f, w 1 1 Cosmopterix sp. nr. basilisca Meyrick, 1909 c, w 2 2 Labdia citracma (Meyrick, 1915) dd (r, rd) 1 1 Cossidae Metarbelinae Squamura obliquifasciata Mell, 1923 u, w 1 1 Crambidae Crambinae Crambinae genus & sp. C s, rd 1 1 Culladia hastiferalis (Walker, 1865) c? w 8 3 Pseudargyria interruptella (Walker, 1866) c, l 7 3 Pseudocatharylla duplicella (Hampson, 1895) c? w 2 2 Cybalomiinae Trichophysetis problematica (Fabricius, 1794) s, rd 1 1 Glaphyriinae Hellula undalis (Fabricius, 1781) f, w 2 2 Nymphulinae Parapoynx diminutalis Snellen, 1880 u, w 1 1 Odontiinae Hemiscopis sanguinea Bänziger, 1987 c, w 4 3 Heortia vitessoides (Moore, [1885]) c, w 14 7 Syntonarcha iriastis Meyrick, 1890 c, w 10 2 Pyraustinae Isocentris filalis (Guenée, 1854) c, w 2 2 Schoenobiinae Ramila sp. nr. acciusalis (Walker, 1859) u, l 2 2 Spilomelinae Agathodes ostentalis (Geyer, 1837) u, l 4 3 Agrotera sp. nr. basinotata f, w 1 1 Archernis capitalis (Fabricius, 1794) u, w 1 1 Bocchoris inspersalis (Zeller, 1852) c, w 3 3 Callibotys wilemani Munroe & Matuura, 1969 c, w 3 3 Camptomastix hisbonalis (Walker, 1859) c, w 23 9 Cnaphalocrocis latimarginalis (Hampson, 1891) f, w 1 1 Cnaphalocrocis medinalis (Guenée, 1854) c, w 28 8 Cnaphalocrocis poeyalis (Boisduval, 1833) c, w 10 3 Condylorrhiza diniasalis (Walker, 1859) u, w 1 1 Diaphania indica (Saunders, 1851) f, w 5 5 Diasemia accalis (Walker, 1859) f, w 11 4 Diasemia reticularis (Linnaeus, 1761) r, rd 2 1 Eurrhyparodes bracteolalis (Zeller, 1852) s, l 3 3 Glyphodes bicolor (Swainson, [1821]) c, w 2 2 Glyphodes bivitralis Guenée, 1854 c, w 1 1 Herpetogramma bipunctalis (Fabricius, 1794) f, w 2 1 Herpetogramma licarsisalis (Walker, 1859) c, w 24 11 Herpetogramma submarginalis (Swinhoe, 1901) f, w 4 3 Hydriris ornatalis (Duponchel, 1832) c, w 5 5 Lamprosema sibirialis (Mill, 1879) f, l 2 1 Lamprosema tampiusalis (Walker, 1859) c, w 2 2 Lygropia quaternalis (Zeller, 1852) c, w 1 1 Maruca vitrata (Fabricius, 1787) c, w 2 2 Metoeca foedalis (Guenée, 1854) c, w 8 6 Nausinoe geometralis (Guenée, 1854) s, l 2 2 Nosophora albiguttalis Swinhoe, 1890 c, w 1 1 Omiodes analis (Snellen, 1890) c, w 2 2 Omiodes diemenalis (Guenée, 1854) u, w 1 1 Omphisa anastomosalis (Guenée, 1854) r, rd 1 1 Palpita annulifer [group] Inoue, 1996 f, w 3 2 Palpita asiaticalis Inoue, 1994 s, w 1 1 Palpita minuscula Inoue, 1996 u, w 1 1 Palpita pajnii Kirti & Rose, 1992 s, l 1 1 Parotis punctiferalis (Walker, [1866]) c, w 4 2 Parotis suralis (Lederer, 1863) u, w 1 1 Pyraustinae genus & sp. 9 r, rd 1 1 Rehimena surusalis (Walker, 1859) s, l 1 1 Sameodes cancellalis (Zeller, 1852) f, w 2 2 Spoladea recurvalis (Fabricius, 1775) c, w 11 7
102 HK Status & Abundance Incidence Family Subfamily Species Author(s) species Distribution Total Total Crambidae Spilomelinae Talanga sexpunctalis (Walker, 1874) c, w 5 3 Drepanidae Drepaninae Tridrepana fulvata (Snellen, 1876) f, w 1 1 Drapetodes mitaria Guenée, 1857 s, w 1 1 Thyatirinae Oreta insignis Butler, 1877 c, w 2 2 Oreta loochooana Swinhoe, 1902 c, w 2 2 Eupterotidae Eupterotinae Apha sp. A / nov. c, w 1 1 Ganisa pandya Moore, 1865 c, w 1 1 Gelechiidae --- Anarsia sp. nr. isogona Meyrick, 1913 u, l 1 1 Gelechiidae genus & sp. D dd (u, w) 1 1 Hypatima sp. nr. arignota u, l 3 1 Hypatima spathota (Meyrick, 1913) f, w 3 2 Stegasta variana Meyrick, 1904 dd (r, l) 1 1 Geometridae Desmobathrinae Ozola minor (Moore, 1888) r, l 1 1 Ennominae Abraxas amicula Wehrli, 1935 c, w 1 1 Abraxas illuminata Warren, 1894 c, w 7 3 Ascotis selenaria ([D. & S.], 1775) c, w 1 1 Biston suppressaria (Guenée, 1858) c, w 2 2 Chiasmia clivicola (Prout, 1926) f, w 1 1 Chiasmia emersaria (Walker, 1861) c, w 2 2 Chiasmia fidoniata Guenée, [1858] c, w 1 1 Chiasmia ozariaria (Walker, 1860) f, w 1 1 Chiasmia sp. C s, rd 4 2 Chiasmia sp. D f, l 9 6 Chiasmia triangulata (Hampson, 1891) s, l 1 1 Chorodna strixaria (Guenée, 1858) c, w 3 3 Cleora alienaria (Walker, 1860) vc, w 2 1 Cleora repulsaria (Walker, 1860) f, w 1 1 Coremecis nigrovittata (Moore, 1868) u, l 1 1 Corymica spatiosa Prout, 1925 c, w 7 3 Dasyboarmia subpilosa (Warren, 1894) vc, w 3 3 Ectropis bhurmitra (Walker, 1860) c, w 1 1 Entomopteryx obliquilinea (Moore, 1888) u, l 1 1 Fascellina chromataria Walker, 1860 vc, w 11 6 Fascellina plagiata (Walker, 1866) c, w 5 3 Hypomecis cineracea (Moore, 1888) f, l 2 2 Hypomecis transcissa (Walker, 1860) vc, w 5 4 Hyposidra infixaria (Walker, 1860) vc, w 6 3 Hyposidra talaca (Walker, 1860) vc, w 7 6 Kranandra oliveomarginata Swinhoe, 1894 vc, w 7 3 Lomographa claripennis Inoue, 1977 u, l 1 1 Luxiaria emphatica Prout, 1925 c, w 1 1 Macaria abydata Guenée, 1857 Intr.; u, w 3 1 Nothomiza flavicosta Prout, 1914 c, w 4 4 Obeidia tigrata (Guenée, 1858) c, w 2 1 Ophthalmitis herbidaria (Guenée, 1858) c, w 1 1 Ourapteryx clara Butler, 1880 c, w 1 1 Oxymacaria temeraria (Swinhoe, 1891) f, w 1 1 Pareumelea eugeniata (Guenée, 1857) c, w 2 1 Peratophyga venetia Swinhoe, 1902 c, w 9 5 Percnia sp. nr. luridaria (Leech, 1897) c, w 1 1 Plesiomorpha flaviceps (Butler, 1881) c, w 1 1 Plesiomorpha punctilinearia (Leech, 1891) u, w 4 2 Plutodes costatus (Butler, 1866) vc, w 26 6 Pseudonadagara semicolor (Warren, 1895) c, w 8 6 Psilalcis galsworthyi Sato, 1996 vc, w 10 6 Serratophyga subangulata (Warren, 1896) s, l 1 1 Serratophyga xanthospilaria (Wehrli, 1925) c, w 5 4
103 HK Status & Abundance Incidence Family Subfamily Species Author(s) species Distribution Total Total Geometridae Ennominae Xerodes contiguaria Leech, 1897 u, w 2 2 Zanclopera falcata Warren, 1894 c, w 5 5 Zeheba aureata Moore, [1887] f, w 2 1 Geometrinae Agathia carissima Butler, 1848 c, w 1 1 Berta chrysolineata Walker, 1862 [1863] f, w 1 1 Dindica olivacea Inoue, 1990 c, l 1 1 Eucyclodes infracta (Wileman, 1911) c, w 2 2 Eucyclodes semialba (Walker, 1861) f, w 2 2 Hemithea tritonaria (Walker, [1863]) c, w 3 3 Herochroma cristata (Warren, 1894) c, w 1 1 Jodis nanda (Walker, 1861) s, l 1 1 Jodis subtractata (Walker, 1863) s, l 2 2 Lophophelma calaurops (Prout, 1912) vc, w 23 9 Lophophelma funebrosa (Warren, 1896) c, w 8 5 Pelagodes subquadraria (Inoue, 1976) f, w 1 1 Pingasa ruginaria (Guenée, 1857 [1858]) c, w 1 1 Spaniocentra kuniyukii Yazaki, 1994 f, l 1 1 Thalassodes immissaria Walker, 1861 c, w 1 1 Larentiinae Axinoptera turgidata (Walker, 1866) s, rd 2 1 Collix ghosha Walker, 1862 f, rd 2 2 Eois grataria (Walker, 1861) r, l 1 1 Eupithecia costalis (Walker, 1863) f, w 2 2 Eupithecia rigida Swinhoe, 1892 f, l 1 1 Orthonama obstipata (Fabricius, 1794) c, w 2 2 Pseudeuchlora kafebera (Swinhoe, 1894) c, w 13 8 Pseudocollix hyperythra (Hampson, 1895) c, w 1 1 Sauris interruptata (Moore, 1888) s, l 1 1 Sigilliclystis kendricki Galsworthy, 1999 endemic; c, w 4 2 Spiralisigna gloriae Galsworthy, 1999 endemic; s, l 1 1 Spiralisigna subpumilata (Inoue, 1972) f, w 2 2 Sterrhinae Antitrygodes divisaria (Walker, 1861) c, w 1 1 Idaea chotaria Swinhoe, 1886 r, rd 4 2 Idaea costiguttata (Warren, 1896) c, w 18 10 Idaea impexa (Butler, 1879) c, w 1 1 Idaea macrospila (Prout, 1926) c, w 5 4 Idaea phaeocrossa (Prout, 1932) f, w 5 2 Idaea ptyonopoda (Hampson, 1895) c, w 6 4 Idaea purpurea (Hampson, 1891) u, w 5 1 Idaea sakuraii (Inoue, 1963) c, w 4 3 Idaea trisetata (Prout, 1922) s, l 1 1 Idaea vacillata (Walker, 1862) c, w 1 1 Lophophleps triangularis (Hampson, 1895) c, w 18 7 Metallaxis semipurpurascens (Hampson, 1896) f, w 2 2 Perixera decretarioides Holloway, 1997 c, l 2 2 Perixera flavispila Warren, 1896 f, w 1 1 Perixera griseata (Warren, 1896) f, l 3 2 Perixera punctata (Warren, 1897) s, l 1 1 Pylargosceles steganioides (Butler, 1878) c, w 3 2 Scopula fibulata (Guenée, [1858]) u, w 1 1 Scopula lacriphaga Banziger & Fletcher, 1985 s, l 1 1 Scopula nesicraria (Walker, 1861) u, l 1 1 Scopula propinquaria (Leech, 1897) f, w 1 1 Scopula sp. C (nov.) c, w 5 3 Timandra convectaria Walker, 1861 u, w 1 1 Traminda aventiaria (Guenée, 1858) c, w 9 5 Immidae --- Imma sp. B u, w 1 1 Imma sp. C nr. mylias r, rd 1 1
104 HK Status & Abundance Incidence Family Subfamily Species Author(s) species Distribution Total Total Lasiocampidae Lasiocampinae Euthrix isocyma (Hampson, 1892) vc, w 12 10 Lecithoceridae --- Homaloxestis cholopis (Meyrick, 1906) dd (r, rd) 2 1 Homaloxestis myloxesta Meyrick, 1932 c, w 7 3 Lecithocera duplicata Grozmány, 1978 dd (r, rd) 1 1 Lecithoceridae genus & sp. G u, w 1 1 Lecithoceridae genus & sp. K dd (r, rd) 1 1 Limacodidae --- Darna furva (Wileman, 1911) f, w 1 1 Darna pallivitta (Moore, 1877) f, w 8 6 Griseothosea fasciata (Moore, 1888) u, w 5 3 Miresa sp. nov. c, w 2 2 Narosa nigrisigna Wileman, 1911 c, w 3 2 Phlossa conjuncta (Walker, [1855]) f, w 1 1 Phlossa melli (Hering, 1931) c, l 14 8 Quasithosea obliquistriga (Hering, 1931) f, w 1 1 Thosea rufa Wileman, 1915 s, l 1 1 Thosea sinensis (Walker, 1859) f, w 3 3 Lymantriidae --- Aroa substrigosa (Walker, 1855) c, w 1 1 Carriola ecnomoda (Swinhoe, 1907) c, w 1 1 Dasychira chekiangensis Collonette, 1938 c, w 1 1 Dasychira costalis (Walker, 1855) s, w 1 1 Dasychira nigritula Walker, 1865 f, w 3 3 Euproctis sp. A nr. latifascia (Walker, 1855) u, rd 2 1 Laelia anamesa Collonette, 1934 f, w 2 2 Orgyia postica (Walker, 1855) vc, w 15 9 Orvasca subnotata (Walker, 1865) c, w 4 4 Pantana droa Swinhoe, 1906 f, rd 2 2 Noctuidae Eublemminae Eublemma anachoresis (Wallengren, 1863) u, w 3 2 Eublemma baccalix (Swinhoe, 1886) f, l 1 1 Eublemma cochylioides (Guenée, 1852) c, w 7 6 Eublemma parva (Hübner, [1808]) s, l 1 1 Eublemma ragusana (Freyer, 1845) c, w 2 2 Eublemma rivula (Moore, 1882) f, w 2 2 Acontiinae Acontia marmoralis (Fabricius, 1794) s, l 1 1 Cerynea contentaria (Walker, 1861) c, w 4 4 Cerynea discontenta Galsworthy, 1998 endemic; f, w 14 3 Cerynea ustula (Hampson, 1898) c, w 5 5 Corgatha dictaria (Walker, 1861) c, w 7 6 Corgatha ruficeps (Walker, 1864) vc, w 4 4 Corgatha trichogyia Hampson, 1907 f, w 3 3 Enispa elataria (Walker, 1861) c, w 7 5 Flammona trilineata Leech, 1900 c, w 2 2 Hyposada kadooriensis Galsworthy, 1998 endemic; f, w 3 2 Lophoruza lunifera (Moore, [1885] 1884-1887) c, w 8 8 Metaemene atriguttata (Walker, 1862) f, w 2 2 Narangodes haemorranta Hampson, 1910 f, w 3 2 Zurobata vacillans (Walker, 1864) u, l 1 1 Acronictinae Lophonycta confusa (Leech, 1900) f, l 3 3 Tycracrona obliqua Moore, 1882 f, l 1 1 Aganainae Asota caricae (Fabricius, 1775) c, w 9 8 Asota heliconia (Linnaeus, 1758) c, w 6 6 Asota plaginota Butler, 1875 c, w 3 3 Agaristinae Chelonomorpha japana Motschulsky, 1860 r, rd 1 1 Mimeusemia postica (Walker, 1862) c, w 2 2 Catocalinae Achaea janata (Linnaeus, 1758) u, w 1 1 Aedia leucomelas (Linnaeus, 1758) f, w 2 2 Anachrostis sp. nr. nigripuncta Hampson, 1893 f, w 4 4 Anomis combinans (Walker, [1858] 1857) r, rd 2 1
105 HK Status & Abundance Incidence Family Subfamily Species Author(s) species Distribution Total Total Noctuidae Catocalinae Anomis flava (Fabricius, 1775) c, w 6 5 Anomis mesogona (Walker, [1858] 1857) c, w 2 2 Arsacia rectalis (Walker, 1863) c, w 2 2 Bastilla crameri (Moore, [1885] 1884-1887) u, l 1 1 Bastilla fulvotaenia (Guenée, 1852) c, w 1 1 Bastilla joviana (Stoll, 1782) c, w 3 2 Bastilla maturata (Walker, 1858) f, w 1 1 Bastilla maturescens (Walker, 1858) u, l 2 2 Bastilla simillima (Guenée, 1852) u, l 1 1 Blasticorhinus enervis (Swinhoe, 1890) f, w 1 1 Buzara onelia (Guenée, 1852) c, w 1 1 Calesia dasyptera (Kollar, 1844) u, w 5 2 Chalciope mygdon (Cramer, 1777) f, w 1 1 Crithote horridipes Walker, 1864 c, w 4 3 Crithote prominens Leech, 1900 c, w 1 1 Daddala lucilla (Butler, 1881) f, w 1 1 Dinumma placens Walker, 1858 dd (f, w?) 1 1 Diomea rotundata Walker, [1858] 1857 f, l 1 1 Ecpatia longinqua (Swinhoe, 1890) c, w 1 1 Egnasia seclusalis (Walker, [1866] 1865) c, w 4 4 Ercheia cyllaria (Cramer, 1779) c, w 8 6 Erebus ephesperis (Hübner, [1823] 1816) c, w 2 2 Ericeia acutangula Roepke, 1932 c, w 3 3 Ericeia fraterna (Moore, [1885] 1884-1887) dd (r, rd?) 3 2 Ericeia inangulata (Guenée, 1852) u, l 1 1 Ericeia pertendens (Walker, 1858) c, w 4 4 Ericeia subcinerea (Snellen, 1880) vc, w 13 4 Erygia apicalis Guenée, 1852 c, w 2 2 Falana sordida Moore, 1882 f, w 3 3 Gesonia obeiditalis Walker, [1859] 1858 c, w 11 7 Goniocraspedon mistura (Swinhoe, 1891) f, l 2 2 Goniophila hampsoni (Leech, 1900) s, rd 1 1 Hulodes caranea (Cramer, 1780) f, w 1 1 Hypersypnoides submarginata (Walker, 1865) c, l 2 2 Hypocala deflorata (Fabricius, 1794) c, w 2 2 Hypospila bolinoides Guenée, 1852 c, w 3 3 Lacera procellosa Butler, 1879 f, w 1 1 Lophathrum comprimens (Walker, 1858) c, w 5 5 Loxioda similis (Moore, 1882) f, w 3 3 Macaldenia palumba (Guenée, 1852) c, w 4 3 Maguda suffusa (Walker, 1863) c, w 6 4 Mecodina praecipua (Walker, 1865) c, w 1 1 Mocis frugalis (Fabricius, 1775) c, w 3 3 Mocis undata (Fabricius, 1775) c, w 1 1 Nagadeba indecoralis Walker, [1886] 1865 s, l 2 2 Olulis puncticinctalis Walker, 1863 c, w 1 1 Oraesia emarginata (Fabricius, 1794) f, w 2 2 Othreis homaena Hübner, [1823] 1816 f, l 2 2 Othreis hypermnestra (Stoll, 1780) s, l 1 1 Oxyodes scrobiculata (Fabricius, 1775) c, w 1 1 Pangrapta adusta (Leech, 1900) f, w 3 3 Pangrapta obscurata (Butler, 1879) c, w 4 4 Pangrapta plumbilineata Wileman & West, 1929 f, l 1 1 Pangrapta roseinotata Galsworthy, 1997 endemic; c, w 6 4 Platyja umminea (Cramer, 1780) f, l 1 1 Plecoptera luteiceps (Walker, 1865) c, w 1 1 Plecoptera recta (Pagenstacher, 1886) f, rd 1 1
106 HK Status & Abundance Incidence Family Subfamily Species Author(s) species Distribution Total Total Noctuidae Catocalinae Plecoptera reflexa Guenée, 1852 f, rd 2 2 Polydesma boarmoides Guenée, 1852 s, w 2 2 Prolophota trigonifera Hampson, 1896 f, w 3 3 Rema costimacula (Guenée, 1852) vc, w 12 9 Rhesala imparata Walker, 1858 c, w 3 3 Saroba pustulifera Walker, 1865 c, w 8 8 Sarobides inconclusa (Walker, [1863] 1864) f, l 4 3 Singara diversalis Walker, 1865 c, w 2 2 Sympis rufibasis Guenée, 1852 c, w 15 11 Tephriopis divulsa (Walker, 1865) c, w 5 4 Thalatta fasciosa Moore, 1882 s, w 1 1 Throana pectinifer (Hampson, 1898) f, w 2 2 Thyas juno (Dalman, 1823) f, w 2 2 Trigonodes hyppasia (Cramer, 1779) s, w 1 1 Ugia insuspecta Galsworthy, 1997 c, w 2 2 Ugia purpurea Galsworthy, 1997 endemic; vc, w 11 6 Condicinae Condica conducta (Walker, [1857] 1856) c, w 3 3 Condica illecta (Walker, 1865) c, w 10 7 Eriopinae Callopistria exotica (Guenée, 1852) c, w 2 2 Callopistria flavitincta Galsworthy, 1997 c, w 39 10 Eustrotiinae Amyna octo (Guenée, 1852) f, w 1 1 Amyna punctum (Fabricius, 1794) f, w 2 2 Maliattha separata Walker, 1863 f, w 3 1 Maliattha signifera (Walker, [1858] 1857) c, w 6 6 Oruza divisa (Walker, 1862) c, w 2 2 Ozarba brunnea (Leech, 1900) s, l 1 1 Pseudeustrotia semialba (Hampson, 1894) c, w 7 4 Euteliinae Targalla subocellata (Walker, [1863] 1864) u, rd 1 1 Hadeninae Aeologramma albiscripta (Hampson, 1897) c, w 2 2 Athetis bremusa (Swinhoe, 1885) c, w 5 5 Athetis cognata (Moore, 1882) c, w 1 1 Athetis hongkongensis Galsworthy, 1997 endemic; c, w 4 2 Athetis sincera (Swinhoe, 1889) c, w 4 3 Athetis stellata (Moore, 1882) c, w 4 3 Athetis stellulata Chang, 1991 c, w 1 1 Callyna semivitta Moore, 1882 f, w 2 1 Elusa antennata (Moore, 1882) c, w 9 5 Mythimna decisissima Walker, 1865 c, w 1 1 Mythimna reversa (Moore, [1885] 1884-1887) c, w 2 2 Mythimna snelleni Hreblay, 1996 c, w 1 1 Mythimna yu Guenée, 1852 c, w 4 3 Nonagria nigropunctata (Wileman, 1912) u, w 1 1 Paradiopa postfusca (Hampson, 1893) c, w 3 2 Sasunaga tenebrosa (Moore, 1867) c, w 3 2 Spodoptera cilium Guenée, 1852 f, w 6 5 Spodoptera exigua (Hübner, [1808]) f, w 7 3 Spodoptera litura (Fabricius, 1775) c, w 23 10 Spodoptera mauritia (Boisduval, 1833) c, w 6 6 Spodoptera pecten Guenée, 1852 f, w 17 13 Spodoptera picta (Guérin-Ménéville, 1830) s, w 1 1 Trachea auriplena (Walker, 1857) f, w 1 1 Herminiinae Adrapsa ablualis Walker, [1859] 1858 c, w 3 2 Adrapsa quadrilinealis Wileman, 1914 c, w 9 7 Bertula abjudicalis Walker, [1859] 1858 f, l 3 3 Hadennia jutalis (Walker, [1859]) c, w 1 1 Hydrillodes abavalis (Walker, [1859] 1858) c, w 5 2 Hydrillodes hemusalis (Walker, [1859] 1858) c, w 13 8
107 HK Status & Abundance Incidence Family Subfamily Species Author(s) species Distribution Total Total Noctuidae Herminiinae Hydrillodes lentalis Guenée, 1854 c, w 10 8 Nodaria externalis Guenée, 1854 c, w 6 4 Paracolax pryeri (Butler, 1879) u, l 1 1 Progonia brunnealis (Wileman & South, 1916) r, rd 1 1 Progonia oileusalis (Walker, 1858) c, w 3 3 Simplicia bimarginata Walker, [1863] f, l 2 2 Simplicia butesalis (Walker [1859]) f, w 1 1 Simplicia caenusalis (Walker [1859]) c, w 1 1 Simplicia niphona (Butler, 1878) c, w 6 4 Hypeninae Acidon evae Lödl, 1998 c, w 2 2 Acidon paradoxa Hampson, 1896 f, rd 4 3 Hypena laceratalis Walker, [1859] 1858 c, w 5 4 Hypena occatus Hampson, 1882 f, w 1 1 Hypena ophiusoides Moore, 1882 f, l 1 1 Hypenagonia angulata Wileman, 1915 f, w 1 1 Lysimelia alstoni Holloway, 1979 f, w 1 1 Lysimelia lucida Galsworthy, 1997 endemic; c, w 5 3 Rivula basalis Hampson, 1891 c, w 4 2 Rivula inconspicua (Butler, 1881) f, w 5 4 Rivula ochracea (Moore, 1882) u, l 1 1 Rivula sasaphila Sugi, 1982 u, l 2 1 Rivula striatura Swinhoe, 1895 f, l 2 2 Sarobela litterata (Pagenstecher, 1888) f, l 1 1 Noctuinae Agrotis ipsilon (Hufnagel, 1766) c, w 1 1 Plusiinae Chrysodeixis eriosoma (Doubleday, 1843) c, w 1 1 Ctenoplusia albostriata (Bremer & Grey, 1853) c, w 5 2 Plusiopalpa adrasta (Felder & Rogenhofer, 1874) c, w 2 2 Zonoplusia ochreata (Walker, 1865) f, w 2 2 Strepsimaninae Luceria oculalis (Moore, 1877) f, w 1 1 Luceria striata Galsworthy, 1997 endemic; f, w 1 1 Schrankia bilineata Galsworthy, 1997 endemic; s, l 1 1 Schrankia costaestrigalis (Stephens, 1834) f, w 3 3 Nolidae --- Selepa celtis Moore, 1858 f, w 5 5 Selepa discigera (Walker, [1863] 1864) u, l 1 1 Blenininae Blenina quinaria Moore, 1881 f, w 1 1 Chloephorinae Calymera confinis (Warren, 1916) c, w 1 1 Carea angulata (Fabricius, 1793) f, w 1 1 Carea varipes Walker, [1857] 1856 c, w 1 1 Giaura multipunctata Swinhoe, 1919 c, l 4 3 Paracrama dulcissima (Walker, [1863] 1864) c, w 4 4 Eariadinae Earias flavida Felder, 1861 f, w 1 1 Nolinae Manoba brunellus (Hampson, 1893) c, w 7 6 Meganola sp. A s, rd 1 1 Melanographia flexilineata (Hampson, 1898) c, w 4 4 Nola analis (Wileman & West, 1928) f, w 1 1 Nola lucidalis (Walker, 1864) c, w 2 2 Nola marginata Hampson, 1895 f, w 1 1 Nola pumila Snellen, 1875 c, w 10 5 Westermanniinae Negeta signata (Walker, [1863] 1864) c, w 7 5 Notodontidae Biretinae Gargetta divisa Gaede, 1930 c, w 1 1 Dudusinae Gangarides dharma Moore, 1865 f, w 1 1 Notodontinae Chadisra bipartita (Matsumura, 1925) f, l 1 1 Neodrymonia filix Schintlmeister, 1989 f, l 1 1 Pygaerinae Micromelalopha albifrons Schintlmeister, 1989 s, w 2 2 Micromelalopha baibarana Matsumura, 1929 c, w 12 9 Stauropinae Antiphalera exquisitor Schintlmeister, 1989 c, w 2 2
108 HK Status & Abundance Incidence Family Subfamily Species Author(s) species Distribution Total Total Oecophoridae Oecophorinae Macrobathra nomaea Meyrick, 1914 u, w 2 1 Promolactis sp. indet. A u, w 1 1 Stathmopodinae Hieromantis sp. nr. ephodophora Meyrick, 1897 u, w 1 1 Stathmopoda sp. A u, w 1 1 Stathmopoda stimulata Meyrick, 1913 c, w 1 1 Stathmopoda xanthomochla Meyrick, 1913 u, w 1 1 Xyloryctinae Odites ricinella (Stainton, 1859) f, w 2 2 Thymiatris sp. A nr. arista s, l 1 1 Plutellidae --- Plutella sera Meyrick, 1886 s, rd 1 1 Plutella xylostella (Linnaeus, 1758) c, w 2 2 Psychidae --- Kophene sp. A nr. cuprea s, l 1 1 Pterophoridae Pterophorinae ? Emmelina sp. B s, rd 1 1 Pyralidae Epipaschiinae Locastra muscosalis (Walker, [1866]) c, w 1 1 Galleriinae Doloessa viridis Zeller, 1848 c, w 3 3 Galleria mellonella (Linnaeus, 1758) s, l 1 1 Tirathaba mundella Walker, 1864 r, l 1 1 Phycitinae Aurana actiosella Walker, 1863 u, l 1 1 Ceroprepes pluvillella (Zeller, 1867) c, w 1 1 Didia sp. nr. indra Roesler & Küppers, 1981 r, rd 2 1 Didia strigivenella (Hampson, 1899) u, rd 1 1 Epicrocis hilarella (Ragonot, 1888) f, w 1 1 Etiella zinckenella (Treitschke, 1832) f, w 2 2 Guastica semilutea Walker, 1863 c, w 18 9 Nephopterix ochribasalis (Hampson, 1896) c, w 5 3 Quasipuer colon (Christoph, 1881) u, l 1 1 Spatulipalpa effosella Ragonot, 1893 u, l 3 2 Volobilis biplaga Walker, 1863 f, l 6 3 Pyralinae Bostra indicator (Walker, 1863) f, w 2 2 Endotricha consocia Butler, 1879 c, w 15 7 Endotricha minialis (Fabricius, 1794) c, w 3 3 Endotricha sp. A r, rd 2 1 Endotricha sp. B s, l 2 2 Endotricha sp. C u, l 5 1 Endotricha theonalis (Walker, 1859) f, w 1 1 Fujimacia sp. A s, rd 1 1 Fujimacia sp. B s, rd 1 1 Hypsopygia mauritialis (Boisduval, 1833) f, w 1 1 Ocrasa nonusalis (Walker, 1859) c, w 3 3 Perisseretma endotrichalis Warren, 1895 f, l 4 3 Stemmatophora flavicaput Shibuya, 1928 f, w 9 1 Tamraca torridalis (Lederer, 1863) u, l 3 1 Sphingidae Macroglossinae Enpinanga assamensis (Walker, 1856) f, w 3 3 Eupanacra mydon (Walker, 1856) c, w 1 1 Hippotion rosetta (Swinhoe, 1892) c, w 1 1 Macroglossum fritzei Rothschild & Jordan, 1903 vc, w 6 5 Smerinthinae Cypoides chinensis (Rothschild & Jordan, 1903) f, rd 1 1 Sphinginae Acherontia lachesis (Fabricius, 1798) f, w 1 1 Thyrididae Siculodinae Herdonia hainanensis Inoue, 1993 f, w 1 1 Tineidae Perissomasticinae Edosa sp. A dd (s, l) 1 1 Edosa sp. C u, w 4 3 Tortricidae Olethreutinae Cryptophlebia ombrodelta (Lower, 1898) c, w 13 7 Cryptophlebia repletana (Walker, 1863) c, w 3 2 Dudua aprobola (Meyrick, 1886) c, w 3 3 Dudua ultima Diakonoff, 1973 s, rd 1 1 Lobesia aeolopa Meyrick, 1907 c, w 6 2 Loboschiza koenigana (Fabricius, 1775) f, w 2 2 Ophiorrhabda cellifera (Meyrick, 1912) s, w 1 1
109 HK Status & Abundance Incidence Family Subfamily Species Author(s) species Distribution Total Total Tortricidae Olethreutinae Phaecasiophora leechi Diakonoff, 1970 c, w 1 1 Phaecasiophora sp. nr. cornigera Diakonoff, 1959 f, l 1 1 Spilonota mortuana (Walker, 1863) f, w 2 1 Tortricinae Adoxophyes privatana (Walker, 1863) c, w 7 2 Homona coffearia (Neitner, 1861) c, w 8 5 Homona eductana (Walker, 1863) c, w 1 1 Neocalyptis affinisana (Walker, 1863) c, w 11 2 Neocalyptis liratana (Christoph, 1881) f, w 5 2 Uraniidae Epipleminae Dysaethria erasaria (Christoph, 1881) r, rd 1 1 Dysaethria flavistriga (Warren, 1901) u, l 1 1 Oroplema sp. nr. oyamana (Matsumura) r, rd 1 1 Phazaca leucocera (Hampson, 1891) c, w 1 1 Microniinae Micronia aculeata Guenée, 1857 f, w 2 2 Yponomeutidae Attevinae Atteva sp. A r, w 1 1 Yponomeutinae Thecobathra sororiata? Moriuti, 1971 c, w 1 1 Zygaenidae Chalcosiinae Cyclosia panthona (Stoll, 1781) c, w 1 1 Eterusia aedea (Clerck, 1759) c, w 1 1
13.6.6 Flies
Superfamily Family Subfamily Species Culicoidea Culicidae Culicinae Armigeres subalbatus (Colquillett, 1898) ? Holorusia sp. Tephritoidea Tephritidae Dacinae Bactrocera tau (Walker, 1849) ? Calliphoridae ? Rhinia apicalis ? Tachnidae ? indet. ? ? ? indet. ? ? ? indet. ? ? ? indet. ? ? ? indet. ? ? ? indet. ? ? ? indet. ? ? ? indet. ? ? ? indet. ? ? ? indet.
110 13.6.7 Bugs (Hemiptera)
13.6.7.1 Heteroptera
Superfamily Family Subfamily Species Coreoidea Coreidae Alydinae Leptocorisa acuta (Thunberg, 1783) Coreinae Paradasynus spinosus Hsiao, 1963 Lygaeoidea Lygaeidae Rhyparochrominae Metochus abbreviatus (Scott, 1874) ? Pachybrachius nietneri ? Pamerarma punctulata (Motchulsky) ? Pamerarma rustica (Scott) Pentatomoidea Cynidae Cyninae Adrisa magna (Uhler, 1860) Cyninae Macroscytus brunneus (Fabricius, 1803) Pentatomidae Pentatominae Dalpada oculata (Fabricius, 1775) Pentatominae Erthesina fullo (Thunberg, 1783) Pentatominae Nezara viridula (Fabricius, 1787) Pentatominae Plautia fimbriata (Fabricius, 1787) ? Halyomorpha picus ? Niphe elongata Pyrrhocoridae ? ?Antiolochus nigripes Reduvoidea Miridae ? Helopeltis fasciaticollis Poppius, 1915 Reduviidae Stenopodinae Oncocephalus impudicus Reuter, 1883 ? Acanthaspis westermanni Reuter, 1881 Tingoidea Tingidae Tinginae Stephantis pyrioides (Scott, 1874) ? ? ? indet.
13.6.7.2 Homoptera
Superfamily Family Subfamily Species Aphidoidea Aphididae Aphidinae Aphis gossypii Glover, 1877 ? indet. Cercopoidea Cercopidae Cercopinae Eoscarta fusca (Melichar, 1902) ? Cosmocarta bispecularis Cicadelloidea Cicacellidae ? indet. ? indet. ? indet. Coelidiinae Lodiana brevis (Walker, 1851) Euscelinae Scaphoideus albomaculatus Li, 1990 ? Balchutha sp. ? Batracomporphus sp. ? Gaeana maculata ? Kolla? opponens ? indet. ? indet. ? indet. Cicadoidea Cicadidae ? Cryptotympana mimica ? Scleroptera sanguinea ? indet. ? indet. ? indet. ? indet. Fulgoroidea Delphacidae Delphacinae Sogatella furcifera (Horvath, 1899) ? Dicranotropis sp. Flatidae ? Lawana imitata Ricaniidae Ricania speculum Pyropidae Pyrops candelaria (Lantern bug) ? ? ? indet.
111 Whiteflies (Insecta: Homoptera, Aleyrodidae) recorded by J.Martin, 14 xi 1999 (The Natural History Museum, London)
Insecta – Homoptera, Aleyrodidae comment Aleuroclava rhododendri (Takahashi) Aleurolobus rhododendri Takahashi Bemisia afer (Priesner & Hosny) Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius) Dialeurodes agalmae Takahashi Dialeuropora decempuncta (Quaintance & Baker) Paraleyrodes pseudonaranjae Martin, 2001 one of the paratypes of this species was collected at the Headland Rhachisphora machili (Takahashi) Singhius hibisci (Kotinsky)
13.6.8 Other Invertebrate Orders Due to the difficulty of obtaining curated and identified material with which to compare fauna found at the Headland, species are listed only by number of records. Little published material exists on the status of these creatures in Hong Kong; in many cases these represent first records, or are of undescribed species. Some widespread agricultural “pest” species have also been found and are included. Material was collected by R.& G. Barretto, unless stated otherwise Order Superfamily Family Subfamily genus & species Araneida Araneidae indet. Chilopoda indet. centipede Dermaptera Anisolabidoidea Anisolabididae Anisolabidinae Euborellia annulipes (Lucas, 1847) Dictyoptera Blattoidea Blaberidae Epilamprinae Opisthoplatia orientalis (Burmeister, 1838) Blattidae indet. Mantoidea Mantidae Iridopteriginae Spilomantis occipitalis (Westwood, 1889) Mantinae Statilia maculata (Thunberg, 1784) indet. indet. Tenodera sinensis Diplopoda indet. millipede indet. millipede Isopoda Oniscus sp Isoptera Termitidae Odontotermes formosanus Lepidoptera Noctuoidea Lymantriidae indet. (larval skin cast) Mollusca Achatina fulica Bradybaena similaris Camaena cicatoricosa Chloritis hungar fordiana Crytosoma imperator Plectotropis subconella Neuroptera Hemerobioidea Chrysopidae Chrysopinae Mallada sp. Phasmida Phasmatoidea Phasmatidae Baculum granulatus Shiraki, 1935 Praneida sp. indet. A sp. indet. B Psocoptera Psocidae Psococerastis sp. Scorpionida Liocheles australasiae Thysanura Machilidae Machilis sp indet.
112 13.7 VASCULAR PLANTS List of vascular plant species found in the Preliminary Survey of the Tai Po Kau Headland
Local Remark Growth Conservation Plant Species Origin relative (C= cultivated, form status abundance N = naturalized) Abrus mollis C Native 1 Restricted Widely planted Acacia confusa T Introduced 2 Very common C Acalypha wilkesiana S Introduced 2 Common C Achyranthes aspera H Native 1 Common Pantropical weeds Acmena acuminatissima T Native 4 Restricted Acronychia pedunculata T Native 3 Very common Adenanthera pavonina T Native 1 Restricted Adenium obesum S Introduced 1 Common C Adiantum capillus-veneris H Native 2 Common Adiantum flabellulatum H Native 2 Very common Agave angustifolia S Introduced 1 Common C Ageratum conyzoides H Native 6 Common American origin. Ailanthus fordii T Native 3 Rare Protected in HK Alangium chinense T Native 6 Common Albizia corniculata S Native 3 Common Albizia lebbek T Introduced 1 Common N Aleurites moluccana T Introduced 2 Common C Allamanda cathartica S Introduced 2 Common C Alocasia macrorrhiza H Native 8 Very common Alpinia galanga H Native 2 Restricted Alpinia hainanensis (A. katsumadai) H Native 1 Very common Alpinia officinarum H Native 1 Restricted Alpinia zerumbet H Native 2 Very common Alpinia zerumbet var. variegata H Introduced 1 Common C Amaryllis vittata H Introduced 4 Common C Ampelopsis cantoniensis C Native 2 Very common Amygdalus persica (Prunus persica) S Introduced 1 Common C Antidesma bunius S Native 1 Common Antidesma paniculatum (A. ghaesembilla) S Native 1 Common Antirhea chinensis S Native 1 Very common Aporusa dioica (A. chinensis) T Native 7 Very common Aquilaria sinensis T Native 5 Common Protected in China Aralia armata (A. chinensis) S Native 1 Restricted Araucaria cunninghamii T Introduced 1 Common C Araucaria heterophylla T Introduced 1 Common C Archidendron clypearia T Native 3 Common Archidendron lucidum T Native 1 Common Ardisia crenata S Native 4 Common Ardisia quinquegona S Native 2 Very common Artocarpus heterophyllus T Introduced 1 Common C Arundinaria amabilis S Introduced 1 Common C Asparagus cochinchinensis C Native 2 Common Asplenium neolaserpitiifolium H Native 1 Restricted Aster ageratoides H Native 1 Common Athyriopsis japonica (Athyrium japonicum) H Native 2 Very common Averrhoa carambola T Introduced 1 Common C Axonopus compressus H Exotic 2 Common Bambusa vulgaris var. striata T Introduced 1 Common C Bauhinia blakeana T Native 1 Common C Bauhinia glauca C Native 3 Very common Bauhinia purpurea T Native 3 Common C Bauhinia variegata T Introduced 2 Common C
113 Local Remark Growth Conservation Plant Species Origin relative form status (C= cultivated, abundance N = naturalized) Beaumontia grandiflora C Introduced 1 Common C Belamcanda chinensis H Introduced 2 Common C Berchemia lineata C Native 2 Rare Berchemia racemosa C Native 2 Common Bidens pilosa H Exotic 5 Very common American origin. Bischofia javanica (B. trifoliata) T Native 2 Common Blechnum orientale H Native 4 Very common Blumea lacera H Native 1 Restricted Blumea laciniata H Native 1 Common Blumea riparia (B. megacephala) C Native 1 Common Boehmeria nivea S Native 2 Restricted Bougainvillea glabra C Introduced 1 Common C Breynia fruticosa S Native 3 Very common Bridelia penangiana (B. balansae) T Native 1 Common Bridelia tomentosa T Native 5 Very common Brucea javanica S Native 1 Common Buddleia asiatica S Native 1 Common Byttneria aspera C Native 3 Very common Caesalpinia pulcherrima S Introduced 1 Common C Caladium bicolor H Introduced 2 Common C Calliandra haematocephala S Introduced 1 Common C Callicarpa brevipes S Native 1 Common (C. longifolia auct. non Lam.) Callicarpa cathayana S Native 1 Restricted Callicarpa formosana (C. pedunculata) S Native 1 Common Callicarpa longibracteata S Native 1 Restricted Callicarpa nudiflora S Native 2 Common Callistemon viminalis T Introduced 1 Common C Canarium album T Native 1 Restricted Capsicum frutescens var. fasciculatum S Introduced 1 Common C Carallia brachiata T Native 1 Common Carex cruciata H Native 2 Very common Caryota mitis T Introduced 2 Common C Casearia glomerata T Native 1 Restricted Cassia fistula S Introduced 1 Common C Cassytha filiformis C Native 2 Very common Casuarina equisetifolia T Introduced 2 Common C, but also semi-N Celastrus hindsii C Native 1 Very common Celastrus orbiculatus C Native 1 Common Celtis tetrandra var. sinensis (C. sinensis) T Native 4 Common Centella asiatica H Native 1 Very common Centotheca lappaceae (C. latifolia) H Native 2 Common Chamaesyce hirta (Euphorbia hirta) H Native 2 Very common Choerospondias axillaris T Native 1 Common Chrysalidocarpus lutescens T Introduced 2 Common C Cibotium barometz H Native 1 Very common Cinnamomum burmanni T Introduced 2 Common C Cinnamomum camphora T Native 4 Common Cinnamomum parthenoxylon (C. porrectum) T Native 1 Common Cinnamomum validinerve T Native 1 Restricted Citrus limonia S Introduced 1 Common C Clausena lansium T Introduced 1 Common C Clerodendrum cyrtophyllum S Native 1 Common Clerodendrum fortunatum S Native 2 Common Clerodendrum kaempferi S Introduced 2 Common C Clerodendrum nutans S Introduced 2 Common C
114 Local Remark Growth Conservation Plant Species Origin relative form status (C= cultivated, abundance N = naturalized) Clerodendrum splendens C Introduced 2 Common C Clerodendrum thomsonae S Introduced 2 Common C Codiaeum variegatum S Introduced 2 Common C Coffea liberica Bull ex Hiern T Introduced 1 Common C Commelina communis H Native 5 Restricted Cordyline terminalis S Introduced 2 Common C Crassocephalum crepidioides H Exotic 1 Common African origin. (Gynura bicolor auct. non. DC.) Crataeva religiosa T Introduced 1 Common C Cratoxylum cochinchinense T Native 5 Very common Crinum asiaticum var. sinicum H Native 1 Restricted (Crinum latifolium auct. non. L.) Croton crassifolius H Native 2 Very common Croton lachnocarpus S Native 2 Very common Cryptomeria fortunei T Introduced 1 Common C Curculigo orchioides H Native 1 Common Cycas revoluta S Introduced 1 Common C Cyclobalanopsis edithiae T Native 1 Restricted Cyclosorus interruptus (C. gongylodes) H Native 8 Common Cyclosorus parasiticus H Native 6 Very common Cyperus cyperoides (Mariscus umbellatus) H Native 2 Very common Cyperus involucratus (C. alternifolius) H Exotic 1 Restricted C and N, of African origin Cyrtococcum patens H Native 3 Very common Dalbergia balansae T Native 1 Restricted Dalbergia benthami V Native 5 Common Dalbergia hancei C Native 2 Common Daphniphyllum calycinum S Native 2 Common Daphniphyllum glaucescens S Native 1 Common Delonix regia T Introduced 1 Common C Dendrotrophe frutescens V Native 2 Very common Desmodium caudatum H Native 1 Restricted Desmodium triflorum H Native 1 Very common Desmos chinensis (D. cochinchinensis) C Native 6 Common Dianella ensifolia H Native 1 Very common Dichroa febrifuga S Native 1 Common Dicliptera chinensis H Native 1 Restricted Dicranopteris pedata (D. linearis) F Native 6 Very common Dieffenbachia picta S Introduced 1 Common C Digitaria ciliaris (D. sanquinalis) G Native 6 Very common Dimocarpus longan T Introduced 3 Common C and N Diospyros kaki T Introduced 1 Common C, but also semi-N Diospyros vaccinioides S Native 1 Very common Dipladenia boliviensis C Introduced 1 Common C Diploclisia glaucescens V Native 2 Common Diplospora dubia (Tricalysia dubia) S Native 2 Common Dracaena fragrans S Introduced 1 Common C Dracaena scanderiana S Introduced 1 Common C Duranta repens S Introduced 2 Common C Eclipta prostrata H Native 1 Common Elaeagnus loureiri C Native 1 Common Elephantopus scabra H Native 2 Common Elephantopus tomentosa H Native 2 Common Eleusine indica H Native 1 Very common Eleutherococcus trifoliatus C Native 1 Restricted (Acanthopanax trifoliatus) Embelia laeta H Native 3 Very common Embelia ribes C Native 3 Common
115 Local Remark Growth Conservation Plant Species Origin relative form status (C= cultivated, abundance N = naturalized) Emilia sonchifolia H Native 1 Very common pantropical weed. Eranthemum nervosum S Introduced 5 Common C Erigeron odoratum H Introduced 1 Common C Eriosema chinensis H Native 1 Common Erythrina speciosa T Introduced 1 Common C Erythrina variegata T Introduced 1 Common C Eucalyptus citriodora T Introduced 1 Common C Euphorbia pulcherrima S Introduced 2 Common C Eurya chinensis S Native 2 Very common Eurya nitida (E. japonica auct. non L.) S Native 3 Very common Euscaphis japonica S Introduced 1 Rare C Ficus fistulosa S Native 2 Common Ficus hirta S Native 5 Common Ficus hispida T Native 5 Very common Ficus microcarpa T Native 2 Common Ficus pumila C Native 4 Very common Ficus variegata var. chlorocarpa T Native 2 Common Ficus variolosa S Native 2 Very common Ficus vasculosa T Native 1 Common Gahnia tristis H Native 2 Very common Garcinia oblongifolia T Native 2 Very common Gardenia jasminoides S Native 4 Common Glochidion eriocarpum S Native 1 Very common Glochidion hirsutum T Native 1 Common Glochidion puberum S Native 1 Restricted Glochidion wrightii T Native 4 Very common Glochidion zeylanicum T Native 1 Common Gnetum luofuense (G. montanum) C Native 1 Very common Hedychium coronarium H Introduced 1 Common C Hedyotis acutangula H Native 1 Very common Hedyotis auricularia H Native 1 Common Hedyotis diffusa H Native 1 Very common Hedyotis hedyotidea C Native 1 Very common Helicteres angustifolia H Native 1 Very common Heterosmilax gaudichaudiana C Native 3 Common Hevea brasiliensis T Introduced 1 Common C Hibiscus rosa-sinensis S Introduced 1 Common C Hibiscus schizopetalus S Introduced 1 Common C Hibiscus syriacus S Introduced 1 Common C Holmskioldia sanguinea S Introduced 2 Common C Hypericum chinensis S Introduced 1 Common C Hypserpa nitida C Native 1 Very common Ilex asprella S Native 7 Very common Ilex pubescens S Native 5 Very common Ilex rotunda T Native 6 Common Illigera celebica C Native 1 Very rare Protected in HK Imperata cylindrica H Native 3 Very common Inula cappa H Native 1 Common Ipomoea cairica C Exotic 2 Very common Pantropical weed Ischaemum aristatum H Native 2 Common Ischaemum ciliare H Native 2 Very common (I. indicum auct. non (Houtt.) Merr.) Itea chinensis S Native 2 Very common Ixora chinensis S Native 1 Restricted Ixora macrophyrsa S Introduced 1 Common C Jacaranda acutifolia T Introduced 1 Common C
116 Local Remark Growth Conservation Plant Species Origin relative form status (C= cultivated, abundance N = naturalized) Jasminum sambac S Introduced 1 Common C Jatropha multifida S Introduced 1 Common C Kalanchoe pinnata H Introduced 1 Common N, African origin. Kyllinga brevifolia (Cyperus brevifolius) H Native 2 Common Pantropical weed. Lactuca indica H Native 1 Common Lagerstroemia indica S Native 1 Rare C Lagerstroemia speciosa T Introduced 1 Common C Lantana camara S Exotic 2 Very common American origin. Lemmaphyllum microphyllum H Native 2 Common Lepidagathis incurva H Native 2 Common Lespedeza formosa S Native 1 Common N, tropical American Leucaena leucocephala T Introduced 1 Common origin. Ligustrum sinense S Native 2 Common Lindernia crustaceae H Native 2 Restricted Lindsaea ensifolia H Native 1 Very common Lindsaea heterophylla H Native 2 Very common Lindsaea orbiculata H Native 2 Very common Liquidambar formosana T Native 2 Common Liriope spicata H Native 1 Very common Litchi chinensis T Introduced 3 Common N Litsea cubeba T Native 2 Common Litsea glutinosa T Native 4 Very common Litsea monopetala T Native 2 Restricted Litsea rotundifolia var. oblongifolia S Native 5 Very common Livistona chinensis T Introduced 1 Common C Lonicera macrantha C Native 1 Restricted Lophatherum gracile H Native 4 Very common Lophostemon confertus (Tristania conferta) T Introduced 2 Common C Lygodium flexuosum C Native 1 Very common Lygodium scandens C Native 3 Common Machilus breviflora T Native 3 Very common Machilus gamblei T Native 4 Restricted Machilus polyneura T Native 5 Very common Machilus wangchiana (M. kadooriei) T Native 1 Rare Maesa japonica S Native 1 Common Maesa perlarius S Native 2 Common Magnolia grandiflora T Introduced 1 Common C Mallotus paniculatus T Native 3 Very common Malvaviscus arboreus S Introduced 2 Common C Mangifera indica T Introduced 1 Common C Manihot esculenta S Introduced 1 Common C Markhamia stipulata T Introduced 1 Common C Melaleuca leucadendron T Introduced 1 Common C Melastoma candidum S Native 2 Common Melastoma dodecandrum H Native 1 Common Melastoma sanguineum S Native 2 Common Melia azedarach T Introduced 1 Common C & N Melicope pteleifolia (Evodia lepta) S Native 8 Common Melodinus suaveolens C Native 2 Common Michelia alba T Introduced 1 Common C Microcos paniculata T Native 1 Common Microstegium ciliatum H Native 4 Very common Mikania micrantha C Exotic 6 Very common tropical American origin. Millettia nitida C Native 1 Very common Millettia reticulata C Native 1 Common
117 Local Remark Growth Conservation Plant Species Origin relative form status (C= cultivated, abundance N = naturalized) Millettia speciosa C Native 1 Common Mimosa pudica H Exotic 3 Very common tropical American origin. Mirabilis jalapa S Introduced 2 Common C Miscanthus floridulus H Native 2 Common Miscanthus sinensis H Native 3 Common Morinda umbellata C Native 1 Common Morus alba T Native 2 Common C & semi-N Murdania nudiflora (Commelina nudiflora) H Native 1 Common Murraya exotica S Introduced 1 Common C Musa paradisiaca S Introduced 1 Common C Mussaenda erythrophylla S Introduced 1 Common C Mussaenda pubescens C Native 4 Very common Nandina domestica S Introduced 1 Common C Neomarica gracilis H Introduced 4 Common C Nephrolepis auriculata (N. cordifolia) H Native 1 Common Neyraudia reynaudiana H Native 2 Very common Odontonema strictum H Introduced 2 Common C Ophiorrhiza pumila H Native 2 Common Oplismenus compositus H Exotic 4 Very common American origin. Osmanthus matsumuranus T Native 2 Restricted Cosmopolitan weed of Oxalis corniculata H Exotic 5 Very common uncertain origin. Oxalis corymbosa H Exotic 5 Very common American origin. Paederia scandens C Native 2 Very common Palhinhaea cernua (Lycopodium cernuum) H Native 2 Very common Pandanus urophyllus S Native 2 Very common Parthenocissus himalayana C Introduced 1 Common C Paspalum conjugatum H Native 2 Common Pavetta hongkongensis S Native 2 Common Protected in HK Pedilanthus tithymaloides H Introduced 1 Common C Peltophorum pterocarpum T Introduced 1 Common C Pericampylus glaucus C Native 2 Restricted Philodendron cordatum C Introduced 2 Common C Phoenix hanceana S Native 1 Common Phyllanthus emblica S Native 2 Very common Phyllanthus urinaria H Native 5 Common Phyllodium pulchellum H Native 1 Very common (Desmodium pulchellum) Pilea microphylla H Naturalised 2 Very common Tropical American origin Pilea nummularifolia H Introduced 2 Common C Piper hancei C Native 2 Very common Piper sarmentosum H Native 2 Restricted Pityrogramma calomelanos T Introduced 1 Restricted N, South America origin Platycerium alciorne T Introduced 1 Restricted C Plumeria rubra var. acutifolia S Introduced 1 Common C Pogonatherum crinitum H Native 2 Common Polygonum chinense H Native 1 Very common Polyscias guifoylei S Introduced 1 Common C Pouzolzia zeylanica H Native 1 Common Prunus salicina S Introduced 1 Common C Pseuderanthemum atropurpureum H Introduced 1 Common C Pseudosasa cantori S Native 4 Common Psidium guajava S Introduced 1 Common C & N Psychotria rubra S Native 8 Very common Psychotria serpens C Native 5 Very common Pteridium aquilinum var. latiusculum H Native 2 Common Pteris biaurita H Native 1 Common
118 Local Remark Growth Conservation Plant Species Origin relative form status (C= cultivated, abundance N = naturalized) Pteris cretica F Introduced 2 Restricted Semi-N Pteris ensiformis H Native 3 Common Pteris semipinnata H Native 3 Common Pueraria lobata C Native 2 Very common Pueraria phaseoloides C Native 2 Very common Punica granatum S Introduced 1 Common C Pyrrosia lingua C Native 2 Common Quamoclit pennata C Introduced 1 Common C Quisqualis indica C Native 1 Restricted Rauvolfia verticillata S Native 1 Common Reevesia thyrsoidea T Native 1 Common Renanthera coccinea E Introduced 1 Common C Rhaphiolepis indica S Native 4 Very common Planted individuals, Rhodoleia championi T Native 1 Rare protected in HK Rhodomyrtus tomentosa S Native 3 Very common Rhus chinensis S Native 2 Common Rhus succedanea T Native 3 Common Rondeletia odorata S Introduced 1 Common C Rourea microphylla C Native 3 Common Rourea minor C Native 1 Common Rubus leucanthus C Native 1 Common Rubus moluccanus (R. pinnatisepalus) C Native 1 Rare Rubus parvifolius H Native 2 Common Rubus reflexus C Native 4 Very common Sageretia thea (S. theezans) C Native 2 Very common Sanchezia nobilis S Introduced 1 Common C Sansevieria trifasciata H Introduced 2 Common C Sansevieria trifasciata var. laurentii H Introduced 2 Common C Probably introduced to HK Sapindus mukorossi T Native 1 Restricted although it is native in the region. Sarcandra glabra H Native 8 Very common Sarcosperma laurinum T Native 1 Very common Saurauia tristyla S Native 1 Common Schefflera arboricola S Introduced 1 Common C Schefflera octophylla T Native 9 Very common Schima superba T Native 3 Common Scindapsus aureus C Introduced 2 Common C Scleria levis H Native 2 Common Scolopia chinensis T Native 2 Common Coastal Scolopia favea T Native 1 Common Selaginella delicatula (S. flabellata) H Native 2 Common Selaginella doederleinii H Native 1 Common (S. atroviridis auct. non Spring) Selaginella uncinata H Native 3 Common Senecio scandens C Native 2 Common Serissa serissoides S Introduced 1 Common C Severinia buxifolia (Atalantia buxifolia) S Native 1 Common Smilax china C Native 2 Very common Smilax glabra C Native 2 Very common Smilax lanceaefolia C Native 1 Common Solanum torvum S Native 1 Common Solena amplexicaulis C Native 1 Restricted Spathodea campanulata T Introduced 1 Common C Sphenomeris chusanum (S. chinensis) F Native 2 Very common Spiraea chinensis F Native 1 Rare Planted individuals
119 Local Remark Growth Conservation Plant Species Origin relative form status (C= cultivated, abundance N = naturalized) Sterculia lanceolata T Native 4 Very common Styrax suberifolius T Native 1 Common Symplocos laurina T Native 1 Common Symplocos paniculata (S. chinensis) S Native 1 Common Synedrella nodiflora H Exotic 1 Very common American origin. Syngonium macrophyllum C Introduced 1 Common C Syzygium hancei T Native 1 Common Syzygium jambos T Introduced 3 Common C & N Tabebuia chrysantha T Introduced 1 Common C Tadehagi triquetrum (Desmodium triquetrum) H Native 1 Very common Tecomaria capensis S Introduced 2 Common C Tetracera asiatica C Native 3 Very common Tetradium glabrifolium T Native 1 Common Thunbergia grandiflora C Introduced 1 Common C & N Thysanolaena latifolia (T. maxima) H Native 1 Common Tithonia diversifolia S Exotic 1 Common Central American origin. Torenia fournieri H Introduced 4 Common C Trachelospermum jasminoides C Native 2 Rare Trichosanthes ovigera H Native 1 Common Turpinia arguta S Native 1 Common Turpinia montana S Native 1 Common (T. cochinchinensis auct. non (Lour.) Merr.) Tylophora ovata C Native 1 Common Typhonium divaricatum H Native 2 Common Uraria lagopodioides H Native 1 Common Urena lobata S Native 1 Common Pantropical weed. Uvaria grandiflora C Native 1 Restricted Uvaria microcarpa C Native 2 Common Vernicia fordii T Introduced 1 Common C Vernicia montana T Introduced 1 Common C Vernonia cinerea H Native 2 Very common pantropical weed. Viburnum odoratissimum T Native 2 Very common Viburnum sempervirens S Native 2 Very common Viburnum tomentosum S Introduced 2 Common C Viola betonicifolia H Native 1 Common Viscum ovalifolium E Native 1 Common C and N, tropical American Wedelia trilobata H Exotic 5 Common origin Wisteria sinensis C Introduced 1 Common C Xylosma longifolium T Native 2 Rare Youngia japonica H Native 1 Very common Zanthoxylum avicennae S Native 3 Common Zanthoxylum nitidum C Native 4 Very common Zanthoxylum scandens C Native 2 Common Zehneria indica C Native 1 Restricted Zephyranthes grandiflora H Introduced 6 Common C Zingerber zerumbet H Native 2 Rare Planted individual
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Text © 2006, R.C.Kendrick & R.O.Barretto
Plate Photos © 2006, R.O.Barretto, unless stated permission given or accredited otherwise, whence copyright retained by the photographer
Design and publishing by: Printing by: C & R Wildlife Corporate Press (HK) Ltd. 129 San Tsuen, Lam Tsuen 20/F Sunrise Industrial Building Tai Po, New Territories 10, Hong Man Street Hong Kong. Chai Wan Hong Kong
Front cover photos: Top: Tai Po Kau Headland with Tai Po Kau Lo Wai and Constellation Cove, July 2003 by Ruy Barretto. Bottom: Tolo Ridge (constructed 1954), the Tai Po Kau Headland, and Tai Po Kau Lo Wai c.1956 by Edgar Laufer.
Back cover photo: Red-flanked Bluetail by Martin Hale.
Citation: When referring to this document, the bibliographic citation should be given as: Kendrick, R.C. & Barretto, R.O., 2006. Tai Po Kau Headland Conservation Study and S.S.S.I. Proposal C & R Wildlife, Lam Tsuen, Tai Po, Hong Kong. 131 pp, 23 colour plates, 4 figures.
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