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"Mai Po Marshes (and Inner Deep Bay) is a wetland of international importance, as its ecosystem comprises the largest colony of dwarf mangroves in Hong Kong, intertidal mudflats, shallow waters, fish ponds and gei wais.
"It is home to many species of birds and a range of local wildlife such as leopard cats and otters, and an important stopover and 'refuelling' station for thousands of migratory birds including rare species as Blackfaced Spoonbills, of which only about 350 remain in the world and 25 per cent of them wintering at Mai Po.
"The figures of annual bird counts also show a rising trend from some 20,000 birds 10 years ago to over 50,000 last winter, pointing to the increasing importance of this wetland for migratory birds," he said.
Mai Po is not just a good exhibit of the great mother nature, Dr Lee said, adding that it also offers excellent learning opportunity for those who were interested in conservation and the environment.
Noting that over 35,000 visitors coming to Mai Po every year, including students from 350 schools, he believed the visits not only gave them enjoyable outdoor recreation and enriched their understanding of Mai Po but also helped spread the message of nature conservation.
The Director also thanked the World Wide Fund for Nature (Hong Kong), which had managed Mai Po since 1984 and been working closely with his department for many years to conserve the Mai Po Marshes and to promote conservation education in the area.
On the "Discover Mai Po" project, Dr Lee said it had grown from strength to strength. Last year alone, the project raised more than $750,000.
"The fact that so many participants have come to join this event today shows that more and more people care for the environment and are eager to contribute their efforts in improving our environment," he added.
end/Sunday, December 4, 1994
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