Edward Youde Aviary

The Edward Youde Aviary is built over a natural valley at the southern corner of Hong Kong Park which is located on the northern slope of Victoria Peak in Hong Kong. The Edward Youde Aviary was opened to the public in September 1992 and managed by the Urban Council. The aviary is named after the late Sir Edward Youde, The Governor of Hong Kong from 1982 to 1986.

The valley has an area of about 3,000 square metres, and is bounded by an east-facing slope fully covered with natural vegetation and a west-facing slope previously occupied by a barracks. It has a highest point of 46.5 metres and a lowest point of 30 metres above sea level.

This walk-though aviary feature a collection of 800 birds comprising 100 species indigenous to Southeast Asia, Indonesia, and New Guinea. Ground dwelling birds including pheasants, partridges, pigeons and thrushes. Some like the Crowned pigeons from New Guinea are spectacularly beautiful. Great Argus Pheasants proclaim their presence by ringing territorial calls and give one of the most elaborate courtship displays in the bird world.

The entrance to the Hong Kong Aviary consists of a small rectangular building. This building holds on display different types of eggs. The aviary also houses a large cat-sized rodent species.

Waterfowl Lake

The waterfowl lake linked with Edward Youde Aviary by an inner lake is landscaped to form a swamp to accommodate different species of Waterfowls. Some attractive species found in the Waterfowl lake are the Australian Pelican, Great White Pelican and Radjah Shelduck.

Caged Display Area

Some of the characteristic birds cannot be housed in the main aviary. Large Hornbill predate smaller birds, they can only be seen in the three smaller display cages. Three display let visitors view at a closed range. Two cages house the White Crested Hornbill and the Great Pied Hornbill, while the other holds various species of birds of the Malesian region.

Outdoor Learning Activities

During the school term, park staff will conduct educational programmes tof school children. Staff will also arrange guided tours for groups. However, the organizer should make prior arrangements with the office.

External links

* [http://www.building.com.hk/feature/03_00topten.htm Top Ten Buildings of the 90s] , Building Journal
* [http://www.lcsd.gov.hk/parks/hkp/en/birds_collection.php Complete list of species within the Aviary]