Hong Kong Biodiversity Festival 2019 launched (with photos)
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     The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) has organised the Hong Kong Biodiversity Festival (HKBF) for the fifth year. The HKBF will offer about 150 fun-filled activities from October to December to promote the rich biodiversity of Hong Kong.

     Themed "Savouring Nature Up-close", the HKBF 2019 will feature about 150 related activities with the support of 46 partners including government departments, universities, community organisations and the public and private sectors. Given the theme of this year's festival, it is hoped that the public will savour nature up-close and join hands in conserving the biodiversity in Hong Kong.
 
     The AFCD is currently holding the "Savouring Nature" Exhibition at the K11 Musea L8 Nature Discovery Park, with more than 200 local wildlife specimens to showcase how the vibrant nature of Hong Kong nourishes the metropolis. The meticulously preserved animal and plant specimens represent a microcosm of habitats, giving visitors unrivalled access to the wonders of Hong Kong's biodiversity through close observation. The exhibition will run until October 22.

     Moreover, the AFCD and various community organisations will jointly hold a number of Heavyweight Guided Tour events from October to December. Under the @Conservation Walk programme, experienced conservationists in the roles of Heavyweight Tour Guides, including the Chairman of the Hong Kong Countryside Foundation, Mr Lam Chiu-ying; the Vice-chairman of the Hong Kong Bird Watching Society, Dr Ng Cho-nam; the Director of the Mai Po Nature Reserve and the Flyway Programme of WWF - Hong Kong, Dr Wen Xianji; and the Head of Fauna Conservation at the Kadoorie Farm and Botanic Garden, Dr Gary Ades, will guide tours to rehabilitating remote villages, wetlands, wild animal rescue centres and more to show participants the conservation work and achievements of various groups. Members of the public are welcome to join the activities. Enrolment is free.

     Furthermore, the HKBF includes other fun-filled activities including workshops, exhibitions, film appreciation activities and visits to promote biodiversity and enjoyment of nature.

     For event details, please visit the event webpage (hkbf.afcd.gov.hk) and the "Mr. B Nature Classroom" Facebook page (www.facebook.com/hkbf.hk).

     The AFCD is also presenting an animation highlighting the inspiring biodiversity flourishing in Hong Kong. The animation has been uploaded to the event webpage and the "Mr. B Nature Classroom" Facebook page to encourage people to enjoy and savour nature together.

Ends/Friday, October 11, 2019
Issued at HKT 19:10

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