Hong Kong’s Mai Po Nature Reserve, a globally recognized haven for biodiversity, has gained significant support in its conservation efforts through a new otter conservation project backed by The Hongkong Bank Foundation, HSBC’s charitable arm. In collaboration with WWF-Hong Kong, this initiative focuses on preserving the Eurasian otter, a species of special conservation concern in the region.
The Mai Po Wetlands, managed by WWF-Hong Kong, are renowned for their rich diversity of wetland habitats, attracting over 60,000 migratory birds each winter. However, the reserve also shelters over 30 mammal species, including the elusive Eurasian otter, whose population has sharply declined since the 1960s. Recent studies indicate that only a handful of otters remain in the area, making this conservation project crucial for their survival.
The project, funded by The Hongkong Bank Foundation, involves innovative methods to monitor and protect the otters. WWF-Hong Kong is working closely with Kadoorie Farm and Botanic Garden experts to conduct DNA analysis from otter faeces and deploy camera traps to track their activity. This research aims to develop targeted strategies to safeguard the otters and their habitat.
One of the unique approaches includes training a conservation detection dog, Aljo, to locate otter faeces more efficiently. This method enhances the ability of researchers to gather crucial data on the otters’ presence and movement within the wetlands. Bonnie Yip, HSBC’s Senior Corporate Sustainability Manager for Asia-Pacific, emphasised the importance of collaboration in this endeavour. “We need WWF-Hong Kong and other organisations with the expertise and passion to work together on sustainability,” Yip said. “The learnings from these partnerships can be shared and amplified across the region, supporting our vision for sustainable development.”
The project also actively involves the community, with students from Hong Kong Polytechnic University contributing to public awareness through educational materials, including a storybook about Eurasian otters. Volunteers from HSBC have also been instrumental, dedicating over 200 hours to tasks such as identifying otters from camera footage. Since its inception in 2021, the three-year Wetland Incubator project has brought conservationists, scientists, young people, and other stakeholders to incubate solutions for wetland conservation. With HSBC’s continued support, the initiative is poised to make a lasting impact on Hong Kong’s natural heritage and the future of its wetlands.
