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To mark the fifth anniversary of Hong Kong Wetland Park, a thematic event "Bats at Wetlands" is held at the park from today (April 20) until October 31. Visitors will be able to learn about the behaviour, cultural symbolism and conservation of bats through a wide range of activities including an exhibition, computer games, videos, workshops, public lectures and field visits.
Bats play an essential role in keeping populations of night-flying insects in balance. A single bat can catch hundreds of insects in an hour and large colonies of bats catch tons of insects in a single evening, including species of beetles and moths that are agricultural pests. Some bats are important pollen and seed dispersers. Bats make up over 50% of all local mammal species in Hong Kong. They are a unique group of animals, being the only true flying mammal. Bats roost in special environments like caves and trees, and most species are capable of echolocation.
To allow visitors to learn about the life of this mysterious mammal, a series of public lectures and field visits on bats will be organised between April and June. Bat experts from the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department and Kadoorie Farm and Botanic Garden will introduce the ecology of bats, research on bats and conservation efforts. Due to limited seating capacity, pre-registration for these activities is required. For registration and detailed information, please visit www.wetlandpark.com.
During the event period, visitors are also invited to join DIY origami and badge-making workshops and bring home handmade tokens that will remind them of the wonder of bats and the importance of nature conservation.
Hong Kong Wetland Park has attracted over 3 million visitors since it opened in May 2006. The 61-hectare park comprises a 10,000-square-metre visitor centre with interactive galleries showing the functions and value of wetlands, and an outdoor wetland reserve with a wide range of habitats, including freshwater marshes, mangroves, woodlands, shrublands, reedbeds and mudflats, to demonstrate the diversity of Hong Kong's wetland ecosystem. With spectacular displays in a delightful natural setting, the park offers a rewarding experience for visitors to discover the wonderful world of wetlands.
Ends/Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Issued at HKT 15:31
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