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NATURAL HISTORY
paths, pavilions, flower beds and a central fountain. The fountain terrace, which is located on the roof of a 21,000 cubic metre-service reservoir, includes symmetrical flower beds containing roses, medicinal plants and annual bedding plants. In two nearby greenhouses, tropical shade-loving plants are cultivated. The gardens contain a wide range of plants from various climates but, in future, it is planned to concentrate more on native species.
Zoological exhibits in the gardens comprise both animals and birds. They include Jaguars, Pumas, Orang-utans, Patas Monkeys, Crested Porcupines, Common Squirrel Monkeys, Tree Squirrels, Siamangs, Golden Agoutis, Celebes Black Apes, White-cheeked Crested Gibbons and Common Marmosets. Some of these animals have bred offspring in the gardens.
The bird collection, which is among the best in Asia, concentrates on rare or protected species. Altogether, more than 700 specimens representing about 300 species are housed. An excellent breeding record for birds in captivity has been achieved in recent years, including success with the White-naped Crane and the Count Raggi's Bird of Paradise, the latter being only the fifth instance on record in the world.
The success of the bird collection is encouraging the creation of aviaries in the Urban Council's public parks. As a first step, a new display aviary has been built in an attractively- landscaped setting in Kowloon Park.
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