Tai Po Kau Nature Reserve
|
Tai Po Kau Nature Reserve
Location This nature reserve has long been popular with those especially interested in nature, including naturalists and biologists, plus those who feel a need for quiet and unspoiled surroundings. It was originally called the Tai Po Kau plantation, describing the 440 hectares of forest on the steep catchment area of the stream you see near the car park area. The height above sea level extends from 50 metres to 647 metres at the top of Grassy Hill ( Tso Shan ) .
Special features
Vegetation The area of the reserve is 460 hectares, and covers the long-established forestry plantations. The plantations extend from the eastern slopes of Grassy Hill down to Tai Po Road. The area is heavily wooded, with more than 100 different species of trees. Planting of the area began in 1926 when the Government first began afforestation in the New Territories. The dominant tree was Chinese Red Pine ( Pinus massoniana ) and because of that the nature reserve has come to be known locally as Tsung Tsai Yuen, meaning Pine Garden. More recently, small areas of Camphor Tree, China Fir, Taiwan Acacia and Paper-bark Tree have been planted.
Fauna The nature lover who walks quietly in the forest may see many species of bird and animal species. Common birds include the Spotted Dove, Chinese Bulbul and Crested Bulbul, etc. In winter you may see owls and wagtails, while in summer there are cuckoos and Black Drongos. Barking deer may be heard now and then, and occasionally the civet cat, pangolin and porcupine may be seen. In late winter and early spring there are many beautiful butterflies.
Place to go Members of the public are welcome at all times and no permit is required. On the other hand, no barbecue pits are provided, and no fires of any kind are permitted. The prime purpose of the area is to conserve Hong Kong's native fauna and flora. Those interested in the appreciation of nature will enjoy a visit to the area, and will find a few picnic sites where they can enjoy a packed lunch.
|
||||||||
|
||||||||



