Edward Youde Aviary
The Edward Youde Aviary is a large, walk-through aviary located in Hong Kong Park, dedicated to showcasing a diverse collection of birds indigenous to Southeast Asia, Indonesia, and New Guinea. Opened in 1992, it is named after the former Governor of Hong Kong, Sir Edward Youde, and serves as a significant educational and conservation space within the urban environment.
Key Facts
- ›Covers an area of 3,000 square meters (32,000 sq ft).
- ›Opened to the public in September 1992.
- ›Named in honor of Sir Edward Youde, Governor of Hong Kong from 1982 to 1986.
- ›Houses approximately 600 birds representing 80 species.
- ›Features a collection of birds indigenous to Southeast Asia, Indonesia, and New Guinea.
- ›Includes a waterfowl lake and a caged display area for certain species.
Walk-Through Aviary, Waterfowl Lake, Caged Display Area For Hornbills
Great Argus Pheasants, Australian Pelican, Great White Pelican, Radjah Shelduck, White-Crested Hornbill, Great Pied Hornbill
About Edward Youde Aviary
The Edward Youde Aviary is a significant avian exhibition located in Hong Kong Park, situated in the Central district at the base of Victoria Peak. Opened in September 1992, it was established to provide a habitat for a diverse range of bird species native to Southeast Asia, Indonesia, and New Guinea. The aviary is named in honor of Sir Edward Youde, who served as the Governor of Hong Kong from 1982 to 1986.
Description and Features
This facility is designed as a large, walk-through aviary, spanning 3,000 square meters (32,000 sq ft) and built across a natural valley. The valley is enclosed by a vegetated eastern slope and a former barracks site on the western slope, with a height difference of approximately 16.5 meters (54 ft) from its highest to lowest points. The collection comprises around 600 birds representing 80 different species. Visitors can observe ground-dwelling birds such as pheasants, leafbirds, partridges, pigeons, and thrushes. The Great argus pheasant is noted for its territorial calls and elaborate courtship displays.
Beyond the main walk-through area, the aviary complex includes a waterfowl lake that is landscaped to mimic a swamp, accommodating various waterfowl species. Notable species found here include the Australian pelican, great white pelican, and radjah shelduck. A separate caged display area houses birds that cannot coexist with others in the main aviary due to predatory behavior, such as large hornbills. This section allows visitors to view species like the white-crested hornbill and the great pied hornbill up close, along with other birds from the Malesian region.
Education and Management
Managed by the Urban Council at its opening, the Edward Youde Aviary also serves an educational purpose. During school terms, park staff organize educational programs for children and can arrange guided tours for groups, provided prior arrangements are made. The entrance building to the aviary features displays of different types of bird eggs, further enhancing the visitor's learning experience.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was the Edward Youde Aviary opened?
The Edward Youde Aviary was opened to the public in September 1992. It was managed by the Urban Council upon its opening.
What is the size of the Edward Youde Aviary?
The aviary covers an area of 3,000 square meters, which is equivalent to 32,000 square feet. It is built over a natural valley.
What types of birds can be found at the Edward Youde Aviary?
The aviary features a collection of 600 birds representing 80 species indigenous to Southeast Asia, Indonesia, and New Guinea. This includes ground-dwelling birds like pheasants, leafbirds, partridges, pigeons, and thrushes.
Are there any special exhibits or features at the aviary?
Yes, the aviary is a walk-through facility built over a natural valley. It also includes a waterfowl lake and a caged display area for birds that cannot be housed in the main aviary, such as large hornbills.
Does the Edward Youde Aviary offer educational programs?
During the school term, park staff conduct educational programs for school children. Guided tours for groups can also be arranged with prior notice.
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