RECREATION, SPORT AND THE ARTS
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between 1861 and 1871. Divided by Albany Road, the eastern or 'old' garden houses an extensive bird collection while the western 'new' garden, opened in 1871, is home to mammal and reptile exhibits. The botanical section is mainly in the old garden.
Despite the urban environment, the gardens provide a viable conservation centre for endangered species, and in 2000 accommodated 17 endangered species mammal, bird and reptile. The bird collection is one of the most comprehensive in Asia, with over 500 birds of 169 species. More than 10 of these species have reared offspring. The mammal collection, which specialises in primates, has 76 animals, representing 20 species. More than 750 species of tree, shrub, creeper and foliage plant thrive in the gardens. The medicinal plant collection, established in 1987, and a new greenhouse built in 1993 have generated particular interest. These facilities contain about 500 species of herb, orchid, fern, cactus, succulent and indoor plants.. There are continuing programmes to upgrade the animal enclosures and facilities in the gardens.
Ocean Park
Ocean Park, on the southern side of Hong Kong Island, is a major marine oceanarium and theme park covering over 870 000 square metres of land. As a not- for-profit organisation operated by the Ocean Park Corporation (a statutory board), it is dedicated to providing a balanced mix of entertainment and educational facilities for the public, as well as emphasising conservation.
In operation for 24 years, Ocean Park has established itself as a popular tourist attraction both locally and regionally. Over three million people visit Ocean Park each year
local residents and tourists from the Mainland and abroad.
Apart from entertainment such as thrill rides and a variety of shows, the park emphasises its education and conservation programmes. Over 45 000 children from local schools visit the park each year and learn about marine and land mammals through structured programmes and behind-the-scenes tours. The park's research activities on marine mammals and reproduction have also produced the world's first successful pregnancy of a bottle nosed dolphin through artificial insemination.
In 1999, the park became home to a pair of giant pandas, An An and Jia Jia, presented to the HKSAR by the Central Government. Both have adapted well in their new home at the Hong Kong Jockey Club Giant Panda Habitat, which covers 2 000 square metres.
Ocean Park comprised two sections, the Headland and the Lowland, connected by a cable car system that offers spectacular panoramic views of the southern side of Hong Kong and the South China Sea. At the Headland, the park has its thrill rides including the Dragon roller coaster, Flying Swing, Ferris wheel and Mine Train. Complementing the rides is the Ocean Theatre where bottle nosed dolphins and sea lions educate and entertain park visitors every day. The Atoll Reef aquarium, the Shark Aquarium and the new Pacific Pier provide more enjoyment and entertainment.
At the Lowland, visitors can see the two giant pandas in their habitat, the Goldfish Pagoda which has a variety of colourful species, and the 'Dolphin University' which affords a closer look at the staff training the bottle nose dolphins. Other attractions include Film Fantasia, a 100-seat simulator ride, and Kid's World, a dedicated area for young visitors.