(Hong Kong, 28 July 2015) Hong Kong is famous for its skyscrapers, the glittering harbour and the dazzling array of lights. But has it ever occurred to you that not far from this luminous cityscape, there is a breathtaking jungle waiting to be explored? Last Saturday (July 25), Hang Lung As One volunteer team escorted 30 primary school students from underprivileged families on a fascinating trip beyond the urban landscape into “Hong Kong’s Amazon Jungle”, the Tai Po Kau Nature Reserve, to have a close encounter with its natural wonders.

At nightfall, the 60 hikers followed tour guides up the winding trail to explore the Reserve’s intriguing ecology of flora and fauna. The students were thrilled when they saw fireflies for the first time. One of the young explorers, Tang Hiu Wing, said, “At first I was a bit afraid of the dark, but the volunteers have kept us company. We were excited to see the wild animals and we should treasure these gems of nature.” In addition to the glowing fireflies, the students also discovered a variety of unusual creatures including bats, Asian toads, Tailed Sulphur butterflies and Greater Green snakes.
 
Samson So, an eco-tour guide from the Eco Institute, said, “On this trip, the participants realized that Hong Kong is much more than a concrete jungle with all its hustle and bustle. This city has so much more to offer with its rich natural resources that need to be appreciated and protected.”

Situated in Tai Po district, the Tai Po Kau Nature Reserve is one of the earliest nature reserves to be established in Hong Kong. As well as reptiles, insects and nocturnal creatures, the Reserve is home to hundreds of tree species.