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A pair of magpies, which built a nest in a tree at Tak Ching Court in Tuen Mun in February, have flown away to start a new life with their newborn chicks. During the gestation period, the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) implemented appropriate measures to safeguard public safety and to preserve wild birds at the same time.
The department closely monitored the development ever since the magpies built their nest. The department arranged hoardings to be put around the tree to avoid the twigs falling from the nest and posing a danger to passers-by. At the same time, some tree branches were placed in the vicinity for the birds to extend the nest. These allowed a balance between the protection of public safety and the preservation of wild birds.
The department staff regularly observed the living pattern of the magpies. Senior Amenities Assistant of Tuen Mun, Mr Yuen Tat-sing, who participated in the observation work said, ¡§Since birds¡¦ activities are more frequent in the morning and the evening, we usually observe and record the magpies¡¦ living, such as their comings and goings, their activities in the nest, hatching of the chicks and their feeding, outside office hours.¡¨
LCSD staff saw that at least two chicks were born and were looked after by their parents. The young magpies also learnt to fly in the vicinity of the nest. The parents maintained the nest from time to time by taking small branches to mend it. They left the nest until the small birds leant basic flying skills.
Mr Yuen was pleased to see the magpies living well in the crowded city. The little family also attracted people who were interested in the birds¡¦ lives.
LCSD staff said the magpies had used the nest less frequently since late May, and had not returned from early June. The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) confirmed that the nest was no longer in use. The nest had become loose probably because it was not maintained by the parent birds. Part of the nest had fallen to the ground within the cordoned off area but it did not contain any egg or bird. The LCSD had removed the remaining part of the nest to safeguard public safety.
Ends/Friday, July 17, 2009
Issued at HKT 18:56
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