Despite being a built up city, there are plenty of opportunities for Hong Kong bird watching in and around our metropolis.
This is a bird rich wetlands area. This is the place to go to see migratory waders and water birds. In contrast to the peaceful wetland, you will see the skyscrapers of Shenzhen, mainland China in the distance.
This forest area in the Tai Po area in the North of Hong Kong’s New Territories offers 46o hectares of protected park. There are 5 different trails you can follow and in addition to bird life there are many species of trees and pretty butterflies that you might spot. There are also snakes, but they tend to stay hidden, so don’t worry too much.
Close to Mai Po is the Family Friendly Wetland Park. Here you will find a visitor centre, raised wooden walkways and bird hides. The Wetland Park combines conservation, education and tourism.
Although the aviary is very small, the resident birds are unusual and you can get a really good look at them. In addition to the aviary there is a flamingo pond within the park. There is also a small museum called the Hong Kong Heritage Discovery Centre. The Discovery Centre is small, but interesting and it’s a great place to escape from the heat and humidity for a short while. Also, the loos are nicer than elsewhere in the park.
Hong Kong ParkThis 3000 square foot aviary has recently reopened after being refurbished late 2018/early 2019. Entrance is free. You can walk on raised wooden walkways up in the tree canopy. Free walking tours are available, click here for up to date information. The aviary is inside Hong Kong park which also boasts a pretty koi filled lake, the Museum of Tea Ware and a viewing tower you can climb and a nice play area for kids.
The Bird Garden, also known as the Bird market in Mongkok is where birds are bought and sold as domestic pets. Find out more about the market and all of Mongkok’s other interesting markets here. You can get a really close look at the birds and indeed some of the creepy crawlies that they like to eat. Children are pretty fascinated by the bird garden and it’s a regular stop on our family friendly walking tours of the Mongkok area.
Throughout Hong Kong large brown kites (we’re talking birds, not the manmade items) can be spotted both over the ocean and circling above high rises. It’s impressive watching them swoop down to the water to try and catch a fish.
Hong Kong Bird GuideIf you’re a bird watching enthusiast, the most comprehensive Hong Kong birding book we’ve found in English is A Naturalist’s Guide to the Birds of Hong Kong by Ray Tipper. Available in select bookstores in Hong Kong or on Amazon.
*Please note, this link to this book is an affiliate link. Should you click through and make a purchase, we may make a small commission at no additional cost to you.
Established in 1957, the Hong Kong Bird Watching Society produces bulletins, runs tours and holds meetings. Their aim is to appreciate and conserve Hong Kong birds and natural environment. To find out more or become a member, visit their website.
In addition to Hong Kong birding, our city offers an enormous range of things to see and do for all the family. Contact us at Hong Kong Greeters to find out more about our various tours, which can include Lantau Island, Hong Kong’s or for example Jewish Heritage. We also provide group tours, our most popular is our new Vegertarian Food and Cultural Tour. We look forward to hearing from you if you need some help planning your time in Hong Kong. Alternatively, you can follow us on Facebook to keep up with all the latest and greatest happenings in town.
