Hong Kong Wetland Park

Hong Kong Wetland Park is a significant conservation, education, and tourism facility situated in the northern part of Tin Shui Wai, within the Yuen Long district. It was initially conceived as an ecological mitigation area (EMA) to address the loss of wetlands resulting from the development of Tin Shui Wai New Town in the New Territories.

Facilities and Features

The park encompasses a visitor centre, the Wetland Interactive World, and a substantial 60-hectare (150-acre) Wetland Reserve. The Wetland Interactive World is designed to educate visitors, featuring themed exhibition galleries that explore the importance of wetlands for biodiversity, civilization, and conservation. It also includes a theatre, a souvenir shop, an indoor play area known as "swamp adventure," and a resource centre. The Wetland Reserve is home to re-created habitats specifically designed to support waterfowl and other wildlife. Visitors can explore these areas via pathways such as the Stream Walk, Succession Walk, and Mangrove Boardwalk, and observe wildlife from three strategically placed bird hides overlooking a fish pond, mudflat, and riverside.

Notable Exhibits and Inhabitants

Within the Living Wetland Gallery, visitors can learn about Hong Kong's native flora and fauna through displays of animals and models, including species like the false gharial, mouse deer, and green turtle. The park also features "Pui Pui's Home," a dedicated enclosure for a crocodile named Pui Pui. The name "Pui Pui" is a Chinese pun that suggests her origin from the Shan Pui River and her status as a beloved public figure. Her enclosure is designed to provide a comfortable and healthy living environment, featuring a large pool area with plants for shelter and basking.

History and Recognition

The concept for Hong Kong Wetland Park began in 1998 with the "International Wetland Park and Visitor Centre Feasibility Study," initiated by the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department and the Hong Kong Tourism Board. Following confirmation of the site's feasibility for development without compromising its ecological mitigation functions, the Wetland Park Project commenced as one of the Administration's Millennium projects. In 2007, the park was recognized for its excellence, being named one of five winners in the Asia Pacific Competition by the Urban Land Institute.

Climate Record

Hong Kong Wetland Park holds the record for the highest temperature ever recorded in Hong Kong, reaching 39.0 °C (102.2 °F) on August 22, 2017, just prior to Typhoon Hato affecting the region.

Transportation

Access to the park is facilitated by the MTR Light Rail, with the Wetland Park and Tin Sau stops serving the area. Specific routes, including the 705 and 706 Tin Shui Wai Circular services, and the limited 761P service, provide public transportation to and from the park.