5. Ecology

Introduction

5.1 The following section presents the results of an ecological assessment of potential impacts resulting from the Project. A literature review and field surveys were undertaken to establish ecological baseline conditions and the ecological importance of habitats/species potentially affected by proposed works was evaluated. The scale of possible ecological impacts resulting from the proposed works was assessed and necessary mitigation measures were identified. Residual ecological impacts were assessed, and ecological monitoring and audit requirements identified

5.2 It should be noted that this Chapter deals only with potential impacts to natural ecological resources for the purposes of submission of an EIA Report under the EIAO. Captive animals and cultured plants that form part of Ocean Park’s attractions are not considered under this assessment.

Environmental Legislation, Standards and Guidelines

5.3 Guidelines, standards, documents and HKSAR Government ordinances and regulations listed in the following sections were referred to during the course of the ecological impact assessment.

5.4 The Country Parks Ordinance (Cap. 208) provides for the designation and management of country parks and special areas. Country parks are designated for the purpose of nature conservation, countryside recreation and outdoor education. Special Areas are created mainly for the purpose of nature conservation.

5.5 The Forests and Countryside Ordinance (Cap. 96) prohibits felling, cutting, burning or destroying of trees and growing plants in forests and plantations on Government land. Related subsidiary Regulations prohibit the selling or possession of listed restricted and protected plant species. The list of protected species in Hong Kong which comes under the Forestry Regulations was last amended on 11 June 1993 under the Forestry (Amendment) Regulation 1993 made under Section 3 of the Forests and Countryside Ordinance. This Ordinance does not apply to Ocean Park, because the land is leased from Government. Nevertheless, the list of species contained in this Ordinance has been used as a reference for this EIA.

5.6 Under the Wild Animals Protection Ordinance (Cap. 170), designated wild animals are protected from being hunted, whilst their nests and eggs are protected from injury, destruction and removal. All birds and most mammals, including marine cetaceans, are protected under this Ordinance. The Second Schedule of the Ordinance, which lists all the animals protected was last, revised in June 1992.

5.7 The Animals and Plants (Protection of Endangered Species) Ordinance (Cap.187) provides protection for certain plant and animal species through controlling or prohibiting trade in the species. Certain types of corals are listed in Schedule 1 and 2 of the Ordinance, including Blue coral (Heliopora coerulea), Organ pipe corals (family Tubiporidae), Black corals (order Antipatharia), Stony coral (order Scleractinia), Fire corals (family Milleporidae) and Lace corals (family Stylasteridae). The import, export and possession of scheduled corals, no matter dead or living, is restricted.

5.8 The amended Town Planning Ordinance (Cap. 131) provides for the designation of coastal protection areas, Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs), Conservation Area, Country Park, Green Belt or other specified uses that promote conservation or protection of the environment. The authority responsible for administering the Town Planning Ordinance is the Town Planning Board.

5.9 The Marine Parks Ordinance (Cap. 476) and subsidiary legislation allows for designation, control and management of marine parks and marine reserves through regulation of activities therein to protect, conserve and enhance the marine environment for the purposes of nature conservation, education, scientific research and recreation. The Authority administering marine parks and reserves is the Country and Marine Parks Authority.

5.10 Chapter 10 of the Hong Kong Planning Standards and Guidelines (HKPSG) covers planning considerations relevant to conservation. This chapter details the principles of conservation, the conservation of natural landscape and habitats, historic buildings, archaeological sites and other antiquities. The appendices list the legislation and administrative controls for conservation, other conservation related measures in Hong Kong and government departments involved in conservation.

5.11 Annex 16 of the EIAO TM sets out the general approach and methodology for assessment of ecological impacts arising from a project or proposal, to allow a complete and objective identification, prediction and evaluation of the potential ecological impacts. Annex 8 recommends the criteria that can be used for evaluating habitat and ecological impact.

5.12 EIAO Guidance Note No. 6/2002 clarifies the requirements of ecological assessments under the EIAO. EIAO Guidance Note No. 7/2002 provides general guidelines for conducting ecological baseline surveys in order to fulfil requirements stipulated in the EIAO TM. EIAO Guidance Note No. 11/2004 introduces general methodologies for conducting marine ecological baseline surveys.

5.13 List of Wild Animals Under State Protection details Class I and Class II protected animal species under Mainland Chinese Legislation.

5.14 List of Wild Plants Under State Protection details Class I and Class II protected plant species under Mainland Chinese Legislation.

5.15 The International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species provides taxonomic, conservation status and distribution information on taxa that have been evaluated using the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria. This system is designed to determine the relative risk of extinction, and the main purpose of the IUCN Red List is to catalogue and highlight those taxa that are facing a higher risk of global extinction. The IUCN Red List also includes information on taxa that are either close to meeting the threatened thresholds or that would be threatened were it not for an ongoing taxon-specific conservation programme.

Assessment Methodology

Scope of Ecological Assessment

5.16 Existing literature documenting the ecology of southern Hong Kong Island was reviewed. Terrestrial and marine ecology surveys covering both the wet and dry seasons were conducted from May 2005 to November 2005. The surveys covered an assessment area within 500m of the proposed works area.

5.17 Section 3.4.3.4 of the EIA Study Brief states that marine ecological assessment will be required if modifications of the existing boat jetty and the surrounding marine environment (involving marine works) are anticipated. Under the proposed development, no works would be undertaken on the existing boat jetty, and it is anticipated that other construction phase activities (e.g., construction of new seawater intake, potential site run-off) would have only minor and localized impact on marine ecological resources. A brief summary on marine ecological impact assessment is considered adequate. And a summary on marine ecological communities in the vicinity of Ocean Park was included in this Section. Detailed mitigation measures related to water quality impacts are discussed in Section 9 and coral monitoring as precautionary measures are discussed in this Section.

Literature Review

5.18 Existing literature documenting the ecology of the proposed works areas was reviewed. Relevant sources included:

· Carey, G.J., Chalmers, M.L., Diskin, D.A., Kennerley, P.R., Leader, P.J., Leven, M.R., Lewthwaite, R.W., Melville, D.S., Turnbull, M., and Young, L. (2001): The Avifauna of Hong Kong. Hong Kong Bird Watching Society, Hong Kong.

· Oceanway Corporation Ltd. (2002): Underwater Survey in Coastal Waters of Hong Kong. Unpublished report submitted to the Hong Kong Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department, Hong Kong SAR Government.

· Anon, 2004. Summer 2004 Report: Egretry Counts in Hong Kong with particular reference to the Mai Po Inner Deep Bay Ramsar Site. Report by Hong Kong Bird Watching Society to the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government.

Terrestrial Ecology Survey

5.19 Existing literature documenting the ecology of southern Hong Kong Island was reviewed. Terrestrial ecology surveys covering both the wet and dry seasons were conducted from May 2005 to November 2005. The surveys covered an assessment area within 500m of the proposed works area, and comprised:

Terrestrial Ecology Survey

5.20 Habitat surveys were undertaken to determine the types, size and locations of habitats in the assessment area. The habitat surveys were conducted via a desktop review of aerial photographs (PlanD, 2003), base-maps and other relevant maps and plans followed by site visits. Representative photographs of habitat types in the assessment area were taken.

5.21 Vegetation surveys were conducted by direct observation to record species present and relative abundance of species in different habitat types in representative parts of the assessment area. The position of any plant species of conservation interest was recorded. Identification of species and status in Hong Kong were made with reference to Hong Kong Herbarium (2004) and Xing et al. (2000).

5.22 Habitat/Vegetation surveys of the assessment area were focussed on areas directly impacted by the proposed works, and were conducted in June, July, August and October 2005.

Avifauna Surveys

5.23 Daytime avifaunal surveys were undertaken on a monthly basis from May-October 2005. Night surveys of the assessment area were conducted in July, August and October 2005. Avifaunal surveys comprising general walk-transect of the assessment area were undertaken with species present and relative abundance of species in different habitat types recorded (refer to Figure 5.2). Birds were recorded visually and aurally. The location of bird species of conservation interest was recorded, along with any notable behaviour (e.g., breeding behaviour such as nesting and presence of recently fledged juveniles, roosting, feeding activities).

Herpetofauna & Mammal Surveys

5.24 Herpetofauna (lizards, snakes, frogs etc.) and mammal surveys of the assessment area were conducted, with species present and relative abundance of species recorded. Amphibians were searched for by direct observation, searching potential microhabitats, searching for tadpoles in aquatic habitats and listening for calling animals. Reptiles were searched for by direct observation, searching potential microhabitats, and searching for signs of animals (e.g., snake-skins). Mammals (including bats) were searched for by direct observation, searching potential microhabitats, listening for calling animals, and searching for signs of animals (e.g., burrows and faeces). The location of herpetofaunal/mammal species of conservation interest was recorded.

5.25 Herpetofauna/mammal surveys were conducted on four occasions in the assessment area (June, July, August and October 2005). Surveys were conducted during both the day and night.

Terrestrial Insect Surveys

5.26 Species present and relative species abundance of adult butterflies and odonates (dragonflies, etc) was recorded by direct observation in the assessment area. Terrestrial insect surveys were conducted four times in the wet season (June, July, August and October, 2005).

Freshwater Community Surveys

5.27 Natural freshwater habitats in the assessment area are extremely limited due to the existing steep terrain: there are no sizeable freshwater streams or rivers within or close to the proposed works areas, and all watercourses appeared to have only a temporary water flow. Fish and macroinvertebrate populations in the largest of these streams (which drains into the aviary at Tai Shue Wan) were surveyed once in the wet season. Fish were surveyed using aquatic hand nets at various microhabitats. Surveys of macroinvertebrate populations were conducted by kick-sampling with a 500mm mesh D-framed net.

5.28 Fish and macroinvertebrate populations in two artificial ponds in Ocean Park were surveyed once in the wet season. Fish were surveyed by direct observation and netting with aquatic hand nets. Surveys of macroinvertebrate populations were conducted by sweep netting with a 500mm mesh D-framed net.

Marine Ecology Survey Methodology

5.29 For marine ecological surveys, relevant requirements in the EIA Brief and EIAO TM were followed, and reference made to EIAO Guidance Note No. 11/2004. Surveys focused on intertidal and subtidal habitats of potential ecological interest within and adjacent to areas potentially impacted by the proposed development (refer to Figure 5.3). These included:

· Areas adjacent to proposed seawater intake pipe

· Areas adjacent to proposed seawater discharge point

· Areas adjacent to proposed construction and operation phase site run-off discharge points (including discharge from artificial lakes/ponds)

Intertidal Survey

5.30 Intertidal surveys were conducted to establish the ecological profile of shoreline habitats located close to potentially impacted areas (refer to Figure 5.3).

5.31 The surveys were conducted using line transects, with one transect deployed and laid perpendicular to the shore at each site. Line transects were started from the high water mark down to low water. The location of the transects was recorded.

5.32 Along each transect, standard ecological sampling quadrats (dimensions 0.5m x 0.5m) were laid at 1m intervals. Intertidal flora and fauna were identified and enumerated. Also, mobile fauna were counted so that their abundance could be established. Sessile organisms such as barnacles, oysters, algae and cyanobacteria were estimated in terms of percentage cover in each quadrat. Fauna were identified to species level as far as practicable. Flora were identified to genus level as far as practicable. Representative photographs of the rocky shore habitat and representative species / assemblages were taken.

5.33 Intertidal surveys at each survey location were conducted twice during the 6-month survey period.

Subtidal Survey

5.34 Dive surveys to record subtidal habitats/species of ecological interest, such as corals within or close to potentially impacted areas were conducted in October, 2005. The potentially impacted areas were surveyed using Rapid Ecological Assessment (REA) methodology. Spot dives were conducted to allow the positioning of REA transects in each survey area. The transects were orientated parallel to the shore at three different depths. The start and finish point of each transect were recorded using a portable GPS. The depth range of each transect was also recorded. A photographic record of representative species and any significant species (on or off transect) was made.

5.35 General observations and information were also recorded to include the size and general condition of corals, and presence/position of any patches of large hard coral colonies, and whether attached to movable boulders. For any individual coral encountered, notes on species, estimated size and its associated substratum were recorded.

Impact Assessment

5.36 Potential ecological impacts arising from the Project were assessed following EIAO TM Annex 16 guidelines and the impacts evaluated based on criteria in EIAO TM Annex 8.

Sites of Conservation Importance

5.37 Under the draft Aberdeen and Ap Lei Chau Outline Zoning Plan (S/H15/20), a swathe of rocky coastline along the east, south and southwest of the Nam Long Shan peninsula is zoned as Coastal Protection Area (CPA). In general, areas are zoned as CPA to protect and retain natural coastlines and sensitive natural coastal environment, including attractive geological features, physical landforms, or areas of high landscape, scenic or ecological value, with a minimum of built development. In some areas (such as the eastern portion of the Lowland Area), the proposed re-development works site boundary would fall within the CPA, although no construction or re-development would take place within the CPA.

5.38 There are no other areas close to Ocean Park that are of recognised conservation importance. Aside from the CPA, the nearest such area is Aberdeen Country Park, which lies over 500m to the north of the Lowland Area.

Habitat Type and Vegetation

5.39 A habitat map of the assessment area is given in Figure 5.1. Representative photographs of habitats are given in Appendix 5.1. Photographs of species of conservation importance are illustrated in Appendix 5.2. Plant species recorded from the assessment area are listed in Appendix 5.3. A more detailed description of habitats and vegetation communities in the assessment area is given in the following sections.

Low shrubland

5.40 The upper slopes of Nam Long Shan, along with adjacent ridges and hilltops, are found to be highly exposed habitats with only a thin covering of soil. Vegetation growing in these areas was low in diversity, ranged from < 0.5m-2m in height, and was generally limited to low-growing shrubs and grasses. A total of 93 species of plant were recorded from low shrubland habitat during the surveys. Typically recorded species from this habitat included shrub species Cyclobalanopsis myrsinifolia, Gordonia axillaris, Litsea glutinosa, Rhaphiolepis indica, Rhodomytrus tomentosa, Rhus hypoleuca, Rhus succedanea, Sageretia thea, Sterculia lanceolata, Baeckea frutescens; climber species Dalbergia millettii, Morinda parvifolia, Strophanthus divaricatus, and herb species Inula cappa and Aster baccharoides.

5.41 Six plant species of conservation importance were recorded from low shrubland habitat in the assessment area, comprising the herbs Buttercup Orchid (Spathoglottis pubescens), Phantom Orchid, (Habenaria dentata); Balloon Flower (Platycodon grandiflorus), the Cycad-fern (Brainea insignis), the shrub Small Persimmon (Diospyros vaccinioides) and the tree Silver-back Artocarpus (Artocarpus hypargyreus). The former three species were common in the assessment area, and are relatively common shrubland species on Hong Kong Island. All three of these species are scheduled under Regulations of the Forests and Countryside Ordinance (Cap. 96). The status of Cycad-fern in China is vulnerable and the wild plants are under State protection (Class II) (Hu et al., 2003). The populations in Hong Kong are not under threat. Cycad-fern is locally restricted in distribution but relatively common in the assessment area. Small Persimmon was very common in the assessment area, and is similarly highly abundant in shrubland and woodland habitats across most of Hong Kong. Despite its local abundance, Small Persimmon is listed as critically endangered in the IUCN Red Data Lists (Lu, S.Y. & Pan, F.J. 1998). Silver-back Artocarpus is common in Hong Kong, but is classified as vulnerable in the IUCN Red Data List (Sun, W. 1998). The location of the plant species of conservation importance were indicated in Figure 5.1. However, it is recognised that the shrub Small Persimmon was found to be widely distributed over low shrubland habitat of the assessment area and hence the locations of the plants are not included in the habitat map.

Tall Shrubland

5.42 The more sheltered areas of natural terrain in the assessment area (such as the lower slopes of Nam Long Shan) supported taller and denser shrubland habitat than the exposed hilltops. Vegetation in these areas ranged from 2-4m in height, with occasional taller trees, and was of moderate diversity. There are 130 number of plant species recorded from tall shrubland habitat during the surveys. Species composition in tall shrubland habitat was similar to low shrubland, with typically recorded species including dominant species Gordonia axillaris and Schima superba, and other shrub and tree species Acronychia pedunculata, Breynia fruticosa, Bridelia tomentosa, Cratoxylum cochinchinense, Hibiscus tiliaceus, Ilex asprella, Litsea glutinosa, Litsea rotundifolia, Phyllanthus cochinchinensis, Rhaphiolepis indica, Rhodomytrus tomentosa, Rhus succedanea, Sageretia thea, Sterculia lanceolata, and climber species Strophanthus divaricatus, Tetracera asiatica, Gnetum luofuense, Mussaenda pubescens, Millettia nitida, Psychotria asiatica.

5.43 Eight plant species of conservation importance were recorded from tall shrubland habitat in the assessment area. These included three species of conservation importance also recorded from low shrubland habitat (Buttercup Orchid, Spathoglottis pubescens; Balloon Flower, Platycodon grandiflorus and Small Persimmon, Diospyros vaccinioides). Additionally, a further three species of orchids, Long Tentacle Orchid, Peristylus calcaratus; Sword-leaved Orchid, Cymbidium ensifolium, and Green-flowered Rattlesnake-Plantain, Goodyera viridiflora were recorded from this habitat type. All orchids are protected. Long Tentacle Orchid, Sword-leaved Orchid, and Green-flowered Rattlesnake-Plantain are uncommon in Hong Kong. A herb species, Chinese Lily (Lilium brownii), was recorded from tall shrubland habitat. This species is not common in the assessment area and it is scheduled under Regulations of the Forests and Countryside Ordinance (Cap. 96). Another plant species of conservation interest, the Incense Tree (Aquilaria sinensis), was recorded from the assessment area. Although common in Hong Kong, A. sinensis is endemic to China, where it is threatened by habitat loss. It is a Class II protected species under Chinese Legislation, and is listed as vulnerable in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species (Sun, W. 1998).

Plantation & Parkland

5.44 Ocean Park includes numerous areas of amenity tree planting and landscaped gardens. Species diversity in these habitats was found to be generally low, with communities mostly dominated by exotic species such as the tree Acacia confusa, Casuarina equisetifolia and Araucaria heterophylla. In addition to areas of plantation and parkland within Ocean Park, similar habitats were also recorded outside of the park boundary in urban areas of Wong Chuk Hang falling within the assessment area.

Developed Areas

5.45 Developed areas recorded in the assessment area included roads, car parks, and residential, commercial and industrial buildings. These habitats supported little or no vegetation aside from roadside trees (e.g. Acacia confusa, Acacia auriculiformis, Bauhinia blakeana, Cinnamomum camphora, and Leucaena leucocephala), amenity planting (e.g., Calliandra haematocephala, Callistemon viminalis, Ixora chinensis, and Wedelia trilobata) and occasional ruderal weeds (e.g., Bidens spp. and Vernonia cinerea).

Freshwater Habitats

5.46 There are no sizable natural streams or rivers in the assessment area. Due to the steep natural terrain and close proximity to the sea, watercourses within the assessment area were found to be short in length with a high gradient and a substratum largely comprised of bedrock. The largest natural watercourses in the assessment area were two small streams draining the southern slopes of Nam Long Shan into Tai Shue Wan. During the course of surveys conducted for this report, water flow in these streams was found to be highly variable, with substantial flow only noted after extended periods of heavy rain. These streams are seasonal, with flow restricted to the wet season only. Riparian vegetation along the stream-courses was similar in composition to surrounding shrubland and plantation habitat, with typically recorded species including Acacia confusa, Ageratum conyzoides, Brucea javanica, Leucaena leucocephala, Microcos paniculatus, Psychotria asiatica, and Wedelia trilobata. The total number of species of riparian vegetation recorded during the surveys is twenty-four.

5.47 Aside from temporary streams, the only other notable freshwater habitats in the assessment area were artificial ponds inside landscaped areas of Ocean Park, the largest of which were recorded in Tai Shue Wan and the Lowland Area. Both of these ponds had been planted with a mix of exotic and native floating, emergent and riparian vegetation including Acacia confusa, Pistia stratiotes, Acalypha wikesiana, Alocasia macrorrhiza, Asparagus densiflorus cv. Sprengeri, Bambusa sp., Carmona microphylla, Caryota ochlandra, Casuarina spp., Chrysalidocarpus lutescens, Cyperus alternifolius subsp. Flabelliformis, Rhapis excelsa, Scaevola taccada, Schefflera arboricola and Stachytarpheta jamaicensis. Water quality in the ponds appeared eutrophic, particularly so at the Tai Shue Wan Pond which is adjacent to a large population of captive avifauna.

Fauna

5.48 Fauna recorded in the assessment area during recent surveys is listed in Appendix 5.4.

Avifauna

5.49 Field surveys conducted for this Report recorded 54 avifaunal species in the assessment area. As would be expected, the recorded species reflected the mix of habitat types in the assessment area, with disturbed habitats such as developed areas and plantation & parkland supporting typical urban species such as Tree Sparrow (Passer montanus), Crested Myna (Acridotheres cristatellus), Magpie Robin (Copsychus saularis) and Japanese White-eye (Zosterops japonicus). Commonly recorded species in the shrubland habitats that dominated much of the Nam Long Shan peninsula included Chinese Bulbul (Pycnonotus sinensis), Black-faced Laughing Thrush (Garrulax perspicillatus), and Yellow-bellied Prinia (Prinia flaviventris). In total, eleven of the recorded species are considered of conservation importance, as described in the following sections.

Ardeids

5.50 A single Little Egrets (Egretta garzetta) was recorded foraging along the rocky coastline south of Tai Shue Wan in May and June 2005. Little Egrets are locally very common, and the large, secure population in Hong Kong is considered of regional significance by Fellowes et al. (2002).

5.51 Pacific Reef Egret (Egretta sacra) were recorded foraging along the rubble sea wall north of Tai Shue Wan and a jetty located in Lowland Area. A potential roost of Pacific Reef Egret was recorded from a sea cave at the northwestern coast of the Headland Area. Pacific Reef Egrets are considered of local conservation interest by Fellowes et al. (2002) due to the restricted number of known breeding sites in Hong Kong. They are also a Class II protected species under Mainland Chinese Legislation.

5.52 Records of Black-crowned Night Heron (Nycticorax nycticorax) were made from both artificial ponds inside Ocean Park throughout the survey period. The records generally comprised over ten adult birds at each Pond, along with more than ten juveniles at the Tai Shue Wan Pond. Additionally, a single juvenile bird was recorded at the Lowland Area Pond in August 2005. Black-crowned Night Heron are considered of local conservation interest due to the limited number of sites in Hong Kong where the species is known to breed (Fellowes et al., 2002). The presence of juvenile birds at the man-made ponds suggests that a small number of Black-crowned Night Herons are breeding in this area, and breeding has been suspected at this site in previous years (Anon, 2004). However, no nests were recorded in the area during surveys conducted for this Report, and no evidence of breeding was noted during surveys conducted by the Hong Kong Bird Watching Society for the annual summer egretry count in early May 2005 (HKBWS, Pers. Comm.). The exact location and status of the Black-crowned Night Heron colony at Ocean Park therefore remains unclear.

5.53 A single Yellow Bittern (Ixobrychus sinensis) was recorded from the Lowland Area Pond in May 2005. Yellow Bitterns are uncommon summer visitors and passage migrants and scarce winter visitors to Hong Kong, with numbers having declined markedly in recent years (Carey et al., 2001). Fellowes et al., (2002) consider this species to be of local conservation concern due to a restricted and declining local population.

5.54 A single Chinese Pond Heron (Ardeola bacchus) were recorded from Po Chong Wan. This species is common in Hong Kong, but the overall local population and number of breeding birds has declined from the late 1980’s to the present. The decline is thought to be linked to the loss of favoured feeding grounds (fishponds). Despite the reduced numbers of Chinese Pond Heron in Hong Kong, the local population is still large enough to be of regional significance (Carey et al., 2001).

Raptors

5.55 Up to 20 Black Kite (Milvus migrans) were recorded in the assessment area throughout the survey period, soaring above Nam Long Shan and perching in various locations. Although locally very common, Black Kites are considered of conservation importance in Hong Kong due to the restricted number of nesting and roosting sites (Fellowes et al., 2002), with the current breeding population believed to be about 30 pairs. They are also a Class II protected species under Mainland Chinese Legislation. The Breeding Bird Survey recorded breeding of Black Kite to occur in widespread coastal areas, including Hong Kong Island. (Carey et al., 2001). And a large nest observed in a Pinus tree within tall shrubland habitat of Tai Shue Wan Area may have been constructed by Black Kites. The location of this nest is shown in Figure 5.1.

5.56 A single Crested Goshawk (Accipiter trivirgatus) was recorded from tall shrub habitat in the Headland Area in May and August 2005. Although a scarce resident in Hong Kong, the local abundance of this species appears to have increased in recent years (Carey et al., 2001), and it is not considered of conservation concern by Fellowes et al. (2002). Crested Goshawks nevertheless are listed as a Class II Protected Species in China.

5.57 Calls of Collared Scops Owl (Otus bakkamoena) were recorded from tall shrubland habitat located near Tai Shue Wan Entrance during night surveys. Collared Scops Owls are common and widespread in Hong Kong (Carey et al., 2001).This nocturnal species is recorded throughout the year from widespread areas and utilises a variety of wooded habitats including shrubland with scattered large trees and city parks (ibid). Collared Scops Owls are a Class II protected species under Mainland Chinese Legislation.

5.58 Adult White-bellied Sea-eagle (Haliaeetus leucogaster) was recorded from the assessment area in September and October 2005. Records of this species from the Headland and Lowland Area limited to a single bird soaring over the assessment area or foraging at a location distant from the proposed works area (Deep Water Bay and Middle Island). White-bellied Sea Eagles are uncommon residents in Hong Kong. They are considered of regional conservation concern due to the small but stable number of breeding pairs found in coastal areas and offshore islands across Hong Kong (Fellowes et al., 2002). They are also a Class II protected species under Mainland Chinese Legislation.

Other Birds

5.59 Both species of Coucal that occur in Hong Kong (Greater Coucal, Centropus sinensis, and Lesser Coucal, Centropus bengalensis) are relatively common and widespread residents, and are not considered of conservation interest by Fellowes et al. (2002). All Coucal species are however Class II protected species in Mainland China, where they are thought to be under threat from over-hunting (Zheng and Wang, 1998). One or two Greater Coucal were heard calling from various habitats throughout the survey period, and a single Lesser Coucal was heard calling from low shrubland habitat in July 2005.

Herpetofauna

5.60 Five species of amphibian were recorded from low shrubland, tall shrubland, developed area, parkland & plantation and freshwater habitats of the assessment area during the surveys. All of which are common and widespread in Hong Kong, including Asian Common Toad (Bufo melanostictus), Brown Tree Frog (Polypedates megacephalus), and Günther’s Frog (Rana guentheri). None of the recorded species are considered of conservation importance.

5.61 Five species of reptile were recorded from low shrubland, tall shrubland, parkland & plantation and freshwater habitats of the assessment area during the surveys, three of which are common and widespread native species, and one is exotics, probably released or escaped pets. Only one of the recorded species, Chinese Cobra (Naja atra), is considered of conservation importance. Fellowes et al., (2002) note that the relatively large and secure population of Chinese Cobra that occurs in Hong Kong is of potential regional conservation concern due to the declining regional and global populations of the species. A single dead juvenile cobra was recorded from low shrubland habitat in July 2005. An adult cobra was recorded later from tall shrubland habitat in October 2005. Chinese Cobra is listed in Animals and Plants (Protection of Endangered Species) Ordinance (Cap. 187).

Mammals

5.62 Four species of mammal were recorded from shrubland and plantation & parkland habitats in the assessment area. Three of the species: Japanese Pipistrelle (Pipistrellus abramus), Dog-faced Fruit Bat (Cynopterus sphinx) and Palla’s Squirrel (Callosciurus erythraeus styani), are common and widespread in Hong Kong, but they are also protected under the Wild Animals Protection Ordinance (Cap. 170), and therefore considered of conservation importance. A dead body of House Shrew (Suncus murinus) was found in parkland area.

Terrestrial Invertebrates

5.63 During recent field surveys, 14 odonate species and 43 butterfly species were recorded from low shrubland, tall shrubland, developed area, parkland & plantation and freshwater habitats of the assessment area. All recorded species are common and widespread in Hong Kong. One butterfly species recorded, Common Tiger (Danaus genutia), is protected under the Wild Animals Protection Ordinance (Cap. 170).

Freshwater Communities

5.64 Freshwater communities recorded in the surveys tended to be species poor because of the small size of the streams and ponds and various anthropogenic impacts (e.g., fragmentation, organic/inorganic pollution). A description of macroinvertebrate and fish communities recorded from the streams and ponds is given in the following paragraphs. The location of macroinvertebrate survey is provided in Figure 5.2.

5.65 Macroinvertebrate communities recorded from the Stream were found to be species poor. Dominant species recorded included Chironomid and Simuliidae larvae, indicating some degree of organic pollution. No fish were record from the stream during the survey.

5.66 Oligochaeta and Copepoda were recorded from both ponds in the Lowland and Tai Shue Wan Area. The number of species of macroinvertebrate communities recorded from the ponds was low. Other species recorded included gastropoda (Melanoides tuberculata), Odonata (Ictinogomphus pertinax and Coenagrionidae), Heteroptera (Gerridae and Corixidae), and Chironomid larvae. Four common fish species were recorded from the ponds. Two widespread and exotic including Mosquito Fish (Gambusia affinis) and Tilapia (Oreochromis spp.) were recorded from both ponds. Other species recorded including Carassius auratus (cultivated form) and Clarias gariepinus.

Marine Ecology

Rocky Shore

5.67 Natural rocky shore habitat is located along the eastern side of the Aberdeen Channel extending from the south of the bay of Tai Shue Wan along Sham Shui Kok to the western side of Deep Water Bay at the Headland Area.

5.68 Rocky shore fauna along the coast of the Headland Area comprised species typical of other semi-exposed rocky shores of Hong Kong waters and followed typical vertical zonation patterns mediated by tidal exposure. Qualitative surveys in August, September and November 2005 revealed a similarly composed rocky shore community. On the high shore, fauna was dominated by the periwinkles (Echinolittorina spp.), and sea slaters, Ligia exotica were recorded along the coast. At the mid-shore, assemblages were dominated by the limpet Collisella dorsuosa, and barnacles Tetraclita japonica and mussels Sepifera virigatus. On the low shore, whelks Thais clavigera and mussels Perna viridis dominated.

5.69 Algal cover on the rocky shore comprised erect coralline algae (Corallina sessilis), red encrusting algae (Hildenbrandtia rubra), and red turf algae (Gelidium pusillum).

5.70 Detail quantitative survey results of rocky shore assemblages are presented in Appendix 5.5.

Sandy Shore

5.71 Within the assessment area, sandy shore habitats are relatively few. A single sandy shore habitat was recorded at the western coast of Deep Water Bay near Hong Kong Country Club in the Lowland Area. Sandy shores are mobile and unstable environments subjected to constant water movement and wave action. Few intertidal organisms are able to tolerate these conditions such that sandy shores in Hong Kong may appear devoid of intertidal life (Morton & Morton 1983).

5.72 Sandy shore surveys were conducted at low tide in August 2005 and November 2005.On each survey date, visual reconnaissance surveys were conducted along the entire length of the sandy shore. In addition quantitative surveys were conducted by deploying line transects perpendicular to the shore at representative locations. At 1m intervals along the transects, a 0.5x 0.5m quadrat was sampled for burrowing macrofauna.

5.73 Reconnaissance surveys of the sandy shores recorded sea slaters Ligia exotica at high shore area. A count of burrows on both survey dates recorded a sizeable population of small bivalve Donax. inhabiting the sandy shore.

Artificial Seawall

5.74 The north shore of Tai Shue Wan along Shum Wan Road in the Headland Area comprises artificial seawall habitat up to Po Chong Wan. The seawall comprised of big boulders and provides a relatively sheltered rocky shore habitat. Assemblages of species present on artificial seawalls, particularly sloping rubble mound seawall, which better mimics natural conditions, may be expected to be similar to natural coasts. A study on reestablishment of intertidal communities on the fringes of reclaimed land in Hong Kong indicated it might take some eight to ten years for assemblages of colonising intertidal organisms to reach peak complexity (i.e. a ‘climax’ community state) (Yip, 1979). Given that seawalls in Tai Shue Wan are relatively old, it can be inferred that these seawalls support intertidal biota similar to those in natural sheltered rocky shores.

5.75 The species on the high shore dominated by periwinkles Echinolittorina vidua, barnacles Chthamalus malayensis and Capitella mitella. At the mid-shore, species recorded including limpets Patelloida pygmaea and P. saccarhina, rock oysters Saccostrea cucullata, limpets Cellana toreuma, and worm-snails Serpulorbis imbricatus. An assemblage of rock oysters Saccostrea cucullata, barnacles Tetraclita japonica and Balanus amphitrite, false limpets Siphonaria laciniosa, and sea slaters Ligia exotica were recorded from the low shore.

5.76 Algal cover on the sea wall comprised erect coralline algae (Corallina sessilis), red encrusting algae (Hildenbrandtia rubra), and green encrusting algae (Pseudulvella applanata)

Subtidal Habitat

5.77 Field data were collected by experienced observers, swimming down-current along line transects or identified sections of coastline. To facilitate standardization of the method, the observers surveyed areas of approximately 200 m² at each site depth zone within each area (2 m wide x 100 m long belt transects). Usually transects were laid approximately parallel with the shoreline, rather than perpendicular to the shore. One belt transect was surveyed at each depth zone from each location. The swims covered most of the coral community at each site and the sites totalled enough to encompass the main characteristics of each coral community. For this survey three levels were surveyed (Deep: 9-12m C.D. or end of hard substrate; Middle: 6-8.5m C.D.; and Shallow: 2-5m C.D.). Figure 5.3 shows the locations where the coral surveys were carried out. Table 5.1 provides a summary of REA survey findings.

Table 5.1 Summary of Rapid Ecological Assessment Dive Survey Results

	Site	1	2	3	4	5
Deep	Substratum type	Sand	Sand	Sand & large boulder	Large boulder	Sand
	Hard coral cover (%)	0	0	0	1	0
	Soft coral cover (%)	0	0	3	3	1
Middle	Substratum type	Small blocks & sand	Sand	Large boulder & small blocks	Continuous Pavement	Large boulder
	Hard coral cover (%)	5	1	1	1	0
	Soft coral cover (%)	0	0	5	3	0
Shallow	Substratum type	Large Boulder	Continuous Pavement	Continuous Pavement	Continuous Pavement	Artificial Seawall
	Hard coral cover (%)	10	5	5	1	1
	Soft coral cover (%)	0	0	1	1	0

5.78 A summary of the coral species recorded in the 5 survey sites is provided in Table 5.2 and details of survey results and representative photographs of coral species are shown in Appendix 5.6 and Appendix 5.7 respectively.

Table 5.2 Summary Information on Coral Species Recorded

Coral Species	Status in Hong Kong^1	Site 1	Site 2	Site 3	Site 4	Site 5
Hard Coral
Montipora peltiformis	Common	+		+	+
Stylocoeniella guentheri	Common	+
Porites lobata	Common	+	+	+	+
Goniopora stutchburyi	Common	+	+		+
Favia speciosa	Abundant	+
Favia rotumana	Abundant	+
Favites abdita	Dominant	+		+
Favites pentagona	Dominant	+	+	+
Favites chinensis	Dominant	+	+
Goniastrea aspera	Common	+	+	+
Acanthastrea sp.	Uncommon	+	+	+	+
Platygyra acuta	Dominant	+	+
Oulastrea crispata	Common		+		+	+
Cyphastrea serailia	Dominant	+	+	+	+
Leptastrea purpurea	Abundant	+	+
Plesiastrea versipora	Abundant		+
Turbinaria peltata	Common		+
Psammocora haimeana	Uncommon	+
Psammocora superficialis	Abundant	+	+	+	+
Hard Coral (Ahermatypic)
Tubastrea sp.					+
Octocoral
Echinomuricea sp.				+	+
Menella sp.				+	+
Guaiagorgia sp.				+	+
Euplexaura sp.				+	+
Dendronephthya sp.				+	+	+
Anthogorgia sp.				+
Echinogorgia sp.				+	+
Other Sea Fans				+	+
Lobophytum depressum				+
Number of Coral Species Recorded
Hard coral (Total no.:19)		16	13	8	7	1
Hard Coral (Ahermatypic) (Total no.:1)		0	0	0	1	0
Octocoral (Total no.:9)		0	0	9	7	1

Note: ¹Chan et al., 2005

5.79 There was no clear pattern between the 5 survey sites (Table 5.1 and 5.3 refer). Generally, diversity and species richness was higher for the shallow zone and lowest for the deep zone. The shallow zone at Site 1 and 2 had the highest total species (including hard and soft coral and other benthic organisms) recorded, 17 and 18 respectively. The lowest total species was recorded from the deep zone of Site 2 with only one taxon observed. The highest diversity was recorded from the shallow zones of Site 1 and 2. Furthermore, Site 5 had a low diversity and species richness from all zones, i.e., shallow, mid and deep. The highest hard coral cover was recorded at Site 1 and was estimated at 10% in the shallow zone. Soft coral cover was highest for the mid zone at Site 3 and was estimated at 5%.

5.80 In order to assess the value of each area they were compared in terms of community parameters and estimated percentage cover of hard and soft corals. The data collected in this survey was also compared to other similar surveys conducted in Hong Kong’s coastal waters.

5.81 The Underwater Survey in Coastal Waters of Hong Kong (HKUWS) conducted REA surveys at 240 sites around the coastal waters of Hong Kong during 2001(Oceanway, 2002). The sampling effort for this project focused in the western waters but many surveys were conducted in other areas, i.e., North East, East and South. This data set (Appendix 5.8) allows comparison of the data set collected in the present surveys to the wider area of Hong Kong coastal waters.

5.82 The community type / abundance of the present surveys largely fall into the E community cluster with some overlap into the C community. There was no overlap with the high value A and B community types. The C community is, however, considered noteworthy since any coral present within them was able to survive harsh conditions when compared to those normally considered favorable to coral growth. Furthermore, the suite of coral species present in these communities was unusual and often not found in the higher value communities. Presumably, such species are out competed by common corals in higher abundance communities.

5.83 Table 5.3 gives a comparison of the best scoring transects for species richness, eveness and diversity between the HKUWS (Oceanway, 2002) and the present study. Total species recorded were more than three times higher in the best sites from the HKUWS when compared to the present survey sites. Diversity was also higher at the best HKUWS sites compared to the present surveys, although the difference was much less marked (~1.4 times). Eveness was high and similar between the two studies, indicating that no one species was dominant.

Table 5.3 Summary of Ocean Park Dive Survey Compared to the Five Best Transects of the HKUWS

Site	Total Hard Coral Species	Eveness	Diversity
Ocean Park Survey
Site 1	16	0.97	2.74
Site 2	13	0.95	2.74
Site 3	8	0.94	2.47
Site 4	8*	0.96	2.30
Site 5	1	0.89	0.97
Underwater Survey in Coastal Waters of Hong Kong**
Tung Ping Chau 1	48	0.97	3.77
Long Ke Wan	47	0.97	3.75
Tung Ping Chau 2	46	0.97	3.72
Chek Chau	45	0.97	3.70
Pak A	44	0.97	3.67

Note: *include one species of ahermatypic; **Oceanway, 2002.

Ecological Value

5.84 In accordance with the EIAO TM Annex 8 criteria, the ecological importance of recorded habitats has been evaluated in Tables 5.4a-5.4e below.

Table 5.4a Ecological Value of Low Shrubland and Tall Shrubland in the Assessment Area

Criteria	Low shrubland	Tall shrubland
Naturalness	Habitat is largely natural but secondary in nature.	Habitat is largely natural but secondary in nature.
Size	Area of this habitat within assessment area is approximately 75ha.	Area of this habitat within assessment area is approximately 46ha.
Diversity	Low to moderate.	Moderate.
Rarity	Six floral species (Buttercup Orchid, Spathoglottis pubescens; Phantom Orchid, Habenaria dentata; Balloon Flower, Platycodon grandiflorus; Cycad-fern, Brainea insignis; Silver-back Artocarpus, Artocarpus hypargyreus; and Small Persimmon, Diospyros vaccinioides) and three faunal species (Chinese Cobra, Naja atra; Greater Coucal, Centropus sinensis; and Lesser Coucal, Centropus bengalensis) of conservation importance recorded from this habitat type.	Eight floral species (Buttercup Orchid, Spathoglottis pubescens; Balloon Flower, Platycodon grandiflorus; Chinese Lily, Lilium brownii; Small Persimmon, Diospyros vaccinioides; Long Tentacle Orchid, Peristylus calcaratus; Sword-leaved Orchid, Cymbidium ensifolium, and Green-flowered Rattlesnake-Plantain, Goodyera viridiflora; and Incense Tree, Aquilaria sinensis) and six faunal species (Black Kite, Milvus migrans; Crested Goshawk, Accipiter trivirgatus; Greater Coucal, Centropus sinensis; Collared Scops Owl, Otus bakkamoena; Chinese Cobra, Naja atra and Palla’s Squirrel, Callosciurus erythraeus styani) of conservation importance recorded from this habitat type.
Recreatability	Moderate.	Moderate.
Fragmentation	Habitat is not fragmented.	Habitat is not fragmented.
Ecological linkage	Habitat is not structurally or functionally linked to any high ecological value resources.	Habitat is not structurally or functionally linked to any high ecological value resources.
Potential value	The potential value is low-moderate.	The potential value is low-moderate.
Nursery ground	No record of significant nursery or breeding ground was found in the survey.	Large nest possibly constructed by Black Kite (Milvus migrans) recorded from this habitat type.
Age	The habitats are frequently disturbed and therefore are secondary in nature.	The habitats are disturbed and therefore are secondary in nature.
Abundance/ Richness of Wildlife	Low species diversity.	Low to moderate species diversity.
Ecological value	Low	Moderate.

Table 5.4b Ecological Value of Plantation & Parkland and Developed Areas in the Assessment Area

Criteria	Plantation & Parkland	Developed Area
Naturalness	Created habitat.	Created Habitat.
Size	Area of this habitat within assessment area is approximately 32ha.	Area of this habitat within assessment area is approximately 72ha.
Diversity	The species diversity is low.	Very low.
Rarity	Five faunal species (Black Kite, Milvus migrans; Greater Coucal, Centropus sinensis; Japanese Pipistrelle, Pipistrellus abramus; Dog-faced Fruit Bat, Cynopterus sphinx; and Palla’s Squirrel, Callosciurus erythraeus styani) of conservation importance recorded from this habitat type.	Two faunal species (Pacific Reef Egret, Egretta sacra; Chinese Pond Heron, Ardeola bacchus) of conservation importance recorded from this habitat.
Re-creatability	The habitat can be re-created easily.	Habitat can be re-created easily.
Fragmentation	The habitat is not fragmented.	Habitat is not fragmented.
Ecological linkage	Habitat is not structurally or functionally linked to any high ecological value resources.	Habitat is not structurally or functionally linked to any high ecological value resources.
Potential value	Low.	Low.
Nursery ground	No record of significant nursery or breeding ground was found in the survey.	No record of significant nursery or breeding ground was found in the survey.
Age	Not applicable.	Not applicable.
Abundance/ Richness of Wildlife	Low.	Low.
Ecological value	Low.	Very Low.

Table 5.4c Ecological Value of Freshwater Habitats & Rocky Shore in the Assessment Area

Criteria	Freshwater Habitats	Rocky Shore
Naturalness	Temporary streams are largely natural. Ponds are man-made.	The rocky shore is largely undisturbed by human activity.
Size	Area of artificial pond within assessment area is approximately 0.7ha. The total length of stream is about 500m.	Area of this habitat within assessment area is approximately 4ha.
Diversity	Low.	Typical of other semi-exposed shores in Hong Kong
Rarity	Two faunal species (Black-crowned Night Heron, Nycticorax nycticorax; and Yellow Bittern, Ixobrychus sinensis) of conservation importance recorded from artificial ponds.	One faunal species (Pacific Reef Egret, Egretta sacra) of conservation importance recorded from rocky shore.
Re-creatability	Recreatability of artificial pond is high. Recreatability of natural stream is moderate.	Habitat is re-creatable
Fragmentation	Habitats are not fragmented.	Low
Ecological linkage	Habitat is not structurally or functionally linked to any high ecological value resources.	The rocky shore habitat falls partially within CPA.
Potential value	Low.	Low.
Nursery ground	Artificial pond at Tai Shue Wan probably supports a small breeding population of Black-crowned Night Herons.	No record of significant nursery or breeding ground was found in the survey.
Age	Not applicable.	Not applicable.
Abundance/ Richness of Wildlife	Low.	Moderate. Typical species of similar composition and abundance as other semi-exposed rocky shores in Hong Kong.
Ecological value	Low to Moderate	Low to Moderate

Table 5.4d Ecological Value of Sandy Shore and Artificial Seawall in the Assessment Area

Criteria	Sandy Shore	Artificial Seawall
Naturalness	The small sandy shore near Hong Kong Country Club is relatively free from physical modifications but is affected by water pollution to some extent.	Artificial, constructed habitat.
Size	Area of this habitat within assessment area is approximately 0.3ha.	Area of this habitat within assessment area is approximately 1ha.
Diversity	Very low.	Typical of other relatively sheltered shores in Hong Kong.
Rarity	No significant records.	One faunal species (Pacific Reef Egret, Egretta sacra) of conservation importance recorded from artificial seawall.
Re-creatability	Habitat is re-creatable	Not applicable.
Fragmentation	Moderate-High. Sandy shores form a small portion of intertidal habitat in the assessment area.	Not applicable.
Ecological linkage	The sandy shore habitat falls partially within CPA.	Habitat is not structurally or functionally linked to any high ecological value resources.
Potential value	Low.	Low.
Nursery ground	No record of significant nursery or breeding ground was found in the survey.	No record of significant nursery or breeding ground was found in the survey.
Age	Not applicable.	Seawalls of Tai Shue Wan are generally more than 10 years old.
Abundance/ Richness of Wildlife	Very low.	Moderate. Typical species of similar composition and abundance as other sheltered shores in Hong Kong.
Ecological value	Low.	Low

Table 5.4e Ecological Value of Subtidal Habitats in the Assessment Area

Criteria	Subtidal Habitat
Naturalness	Coral habitats are largely natural and typical of South and East Hong Kong.
Size	Small in size.
Diversity	Low.
Rarity	No significant records.
Re-creatability	Corals may recolonise subtidal hard substrata
Fragmentation	Moderate-high, isolated patch of corals
Ecological linkage	Habitat is not structurally or functionally linked to any high ecological value resources.
Potential value	Moderate.
Nursery ground	No record of significant nursery or breeding ground was found in the survey.
Age	unknown
Abundance/ Richness of Wildlife	Low.
Ecological value	Moderate

5.85 Low shrubland habitat within the assessment area was considered of low ecological value only because of low species diversity; and also because most of the species identified are common, widespread and typical of such habitats in Hong Kong. All of the species of conservation importance recorded from this habitat type are common and widespread in Hong Kong, except the locally restricted Cycad Fern (Brainea insiginis).

5.86 Tall shrubland habitat generally has moderate ecological value, because of moderate diversity and presence of plant and animal species of conservation interest.

5.87 Plantation & parkland habitats, although supporting abundant vegetation, have low diversity and are largely dominated by exotic plant species. The habitats do not form an important habitat for wildlife, and are considered of low ecological value only.

5.88 Developed Areas are highly modified habitats supporting a low diversity of plants and animals and no species of conservation importance. These habitats are considered of very low ecological value.

5.89 Streams in the Headland assessment areas were generally small and temporary in nature. Ponds in Tai Shue Wan and Lowland assessment areas are artificial and water quality in the ponds appeared eutrophic. These freshwater habitats are considered of low to moderate ecological value.

5.90 Rocky shore is a common habitat, which was found to be largely natural, undisturbed and extensive in size in the assessment area. It supported common and widespread species typical of semi-exposed shores in Hong Kong. Overall, rocky shore habitat was considered to be of low-moderate ecological value.

5.91 The small sandy shore habitat next to Hong Kong Country Club was observed to be relatively free from physical modification but affected by the use of jetty in certain extent. The species diversity of the sandy shore is very low and the habitat is considered of low ecological value only.

5.92 Artificial rubble seawall in the assessment area was considered to be of low ecological value and supports common species typical of sheltered shores in Hong Kong.

5.93 No high ecological value coral community was found within the assessment area. Patchy distributions of some hard coral species were observed but they are predominantly small in size (<10cm) and most of them are common species. The subtidal habitats were considered to be of moderate ecological value.

5.94 In accordance with the EIAO TM Annex 8 criteria, the species of conservation interest are evaluated in Tables 5.5a and 5.5b below.

Table 5.5a Evaluation of Floral Species of Conservation Interest Recorded Within the Assessment Area

Common Name	Scientific Name	Growth Form	Status*	Distribution
Silver-back Artocarpus	Artocarpus hypargyreus	Tree	Vulnerable^[1]	Locally common
Small Persimmon	Diospyros vaccinioides	Shrub	Critically endangered^[1]	Locally very common
Chinese Lily	Lilium brownii	Herb	Protected^[2]	Locally restricted distribution but common on Hong Kong Island
Incense Tree	Aquilaria sinensis	Tree	Vulnerable^[1] Class II protected^[3]	Locally common
Balloon Flower	Platycodon grandiflorus	Herb	Protected^[2]	Locally restricted distribution but common on Hong Kong Island
Cycad-fern	Brainea insignis	Herb	Class II protected^[3]	Locally uncommon
Phantom Orchid	Habenaria dentata	Herb	Protected^[2]	Locally common
Buttercup orchid	Spathoglottis pubescens	Herb	Protected^[2]	Locally very common
Long Tentacle Orchid	Peristylus calcaratus	Herb	Protected^[2]	Locally uncommon
Sword-leaved Orchid	Cymbidium ensifolium	Herb	Protected^[2]	Locally uncommon
Green-flowered Rattlesnake-Plantain	Goodyera viridiflora	Herb	Protected^[2]	Locally uncommon

*Sources: [1] 2004 IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. [2] Cap. 96 Forestry Regulation {N.B. this does not apply to Ocean Park}. [3] List of Wild Plants under State Protection, SEPA, PRC (1999).

Table 5.5b Evaluation of Faunal Species of Conservation Interest Recorded Within Assessment Area

Common Name	Scientific Name	Conservation Status*	Protection Status**, Distribution
Avifauna***
Little Egret	Egretta garzetta	PRC (RC)	Locally common and widespread. Large secure population of regional significance.
Pacific Reef Egret	Egretta sacra	(LC)	Locally common and widespread but has restricted breeding population.
Chinese Pond Heron	Ardeola bacchus	PRC (RC)	Locally common and widespread. Large local population is declining.
Black-crowned Night Heron	Nycticorax nycticorax	(LC)	Locally common and widespread but has restricted breeding population.
Yellow Bittern	Ixobrychus sinensis	(LC)	Locally common and widespread but declining and has restricted breeding population.
White-bellied Sea Eagle	Haliaeetus leucogaster	(RC)	Class II protected species under mainland legislation. Locally uncommon.
Black Kite	Milvus migrans	(RC)	Class II protected species under mainland legislation. Locally common and widespread but with restricted roosting and breeding sites.
Crested Goshawk	Accipiter trivirgatus	-	Class II protected species under mainland legislation. Locally common, widespread and increasing population.
Collared Scops Owl	Otus bakkamoena	-	Class II protected species under mainland legislation. Locally common and widespread.
Greater Coucal	Centropus sinensis	-	Class II protected species under mainland legislation. Locally common and widespread.
Lesser Coucal	Centropus bengalensis	-	Class II protected species under mainland legislation. Locally fairly common and widespread.
Herpetofauna
Chinese Cobra	Naja atra	PRC	Protected. Locally common and widespread but regionally declining population.
Mammals
Japanese Pipistrelle	Pipistrellus abramus	-	Protected. Common and widespread.
Dog-faced Fruit Bat	Cynopterus sphinx sphinx	-	Protected. Common and widespread.
Palla’s Squirrel	Callosciurus erythraeus	-	Protected. Common and widespread.

* LC – Local Concern (Habitat loss/damage in Hong Kong would pose significant threat to local survival); RC – Regional Concern (Habitat loss/damage in Hong Kong would pose significant threat to regional survival); PRC – Potential Regional Concern (Large, secure populations in Hong Kong are of regional significance). Letters in parentheses indicate that assessment of status is based on restrictedness of breeding and/or roosting sites rather than general occurrence. Refer to Fellowes et al. (2002) for further explanation of status.

** Information taken from various sources including Karsen et al. (1998), Carey et al. (2001), and Fellows et al. (2002)

***All wild birds are protected under the Wild Animals Protection Ordinance (Cap.170).

Environmental Impact Identification, Prediction and Evaluation

Identification and Prediction of Ecological Impacts

5.95 Potential ecological impacts resulting from construction and operation phase activities have been identified, and are outlined in the following sections.

Terrestrial Ecology

Construction Phase

Direct Impacts

5.96 Habitats falling within the footprint of proposed works (including excavation works and re-development of the Lowland and Headland Area and construction of infrastructure works including vet pools, service reservoir, and establishment of temporary conveyor belt near Tai Shue Wan Area) would be directly and permanently impacted. The approximate areas of directly affected habitats are summarised in Table 5.6 below.

Table 5.6 Direct Habitat Loss Resulting From Proposed Works

Habitat Type	Lowland Area	Headland Area	Other Works*	Total
Low Shrubland	-	3.4ha	0.3ha	3.7ha
Tall Shrubland	0.5ha	3.4ha	0.9ha	4.8ha
Plantation & Parkland	2.8ha	1.7ha	0.3ha	4.8ha
Developed Area	8.2ha	3.8ha	0.02ha	~12ha

*Includes construction of vet pools and other minor works.

5.97 Vegetation species directly affected would include individuals of 9 of the 11 species of conservation importance recorded in the assessment area, comprising Buttercup Orchid (S. pubescens), Long Tentacle Orchid (P. calcaratus), Sword-leaved Orchid (C. ensifolium), Green-flowered Rattlesnake-Plantain (G. viridiflora), Phantom Orchid (H. dentata), Balloon Flower (P. grandiflorus), Chinese Lily (L. brownii), Cycad-fern (B. insignis), and Small Persimmon (D. vaccinioides).

5.98 In addition to direct impacts to habitats and vegetation, the proposed works have the potential to cause injury/mortality to wildlife. Animals with lower mobility (such as herpetofauna) would be at a higher level of risk, and could potentially be injured/killed by construction phase activities, especially during excavation of tall shrubland habitat of the Headland Area (i.e. The Summit). No substantial direct impacts to wildlife with high levels of mobility (e.g., avifauna and mammals) are anticipated.

Indirect Impacts

5.99 Indirect impacts to habitats and associated fauna adjacent to works areas could result from increased human activities/disturbance. In particular, noisy construction phase activities and general increase in human activity could disturb wildlife utilising habitats close to the works areas. Potential disturbance effects may include the avoidance of areas adjacent to the works area, and reductions in wildlife density close to sources of disturbance.

5.100 Dust generated during the construction phase, if not effectively controlled, could impact vegetation and habitats adjacent to works areas. Dust covering leaves can lead to lethal/non-lethal impacts due to a reduction in photosynthetic rates, abrasion and blocking of stomata.

5.101 Increased sedimentation could impact aquatic communities in watercourses within and downstream of the proposed works areas. Increased sedimentation can have a number of adverse effects on aquatic communities. In addition to direct physical damage (particularly to small invertebrate taxon) caused by larger particles (e.g., sand/gravel), small particles (e.g., silt) can clog the respiratory and feeding organs of fish and invertebrates. Increases in turbidity caused by high sediment levels can inhibit photosynthesis by aquatic plants, and impede feeding and other activities in animals that are largely dependant on sight (e.g., some fish species). Impacts to aquatic communities close to works areas could also occur through potential spills of oils and other pollutants during the construction phase. Potential spillage of oils/chemicals could lead to direct lethal/non-lethal effects on aquatic organisms.

Operation Phase

Direct Impacts

5.102 No direct impacts to terrestrial ecological sensitive receivers would result from operation of the proposed re-developed Park.

Indirect Impacts

5.103 During the operation phase, no substantial increases in indirect ecological impacts (i.e., from disturbance in the park or site run-off) is expected over and above existing impacts resulting from the current operation of the Park.

Marine Ecology

Construction Phase

Direct Impacts

5.104 No modification work to the existing boat jetty is proposed under the redevelopment of the Park and thus there would not be any marine-based construction works for the Project. No direct impacts to marine ecological resources during construction phase are anticipated.

Indirect Impacts

5.105 The potential indirect impact associated with the construction phase of the proposed works would include construction site runoff and drainage on subtidal habitat.

5.106 Runoff from the construction works areas may contain increased loads of sediments, other suspended solids and contaminants. Potential sources of pollution from site drainage include:

§ runoff from and erosion of exposed soil surfaces, earth working areas and stockpiles

§ release of grouting, cement, and other materials with rain wash

§ wash water from dust suppression sprays

§ fuel and lubricants from maintenance of construction vehicles and mechanical equipment.

5.107 Sediment laden runoff particularly from works areas subjected to excavation or earth works, if uncontrolled, may carry pollutants (adsorbed onto the particle surfaces) into the sea via drains. Possible indirect impact on subtidal habitat (i.e. corals and other marine group) may arise due to water quality deterioration due to siltation effect of suspended solids.

Operation Phase

Direct Impacts

5.108 No direct marine ecological impacts are expected during the operation stage of the Project.

Indirect Impacts

5.109 During the operation phase, no substantial increases in indirect ecological impacts (i.e., from site run-off) is expected over and above existing impacts resulting from the current operation of the Park.

Evaluation of Ecological Impacts

Terrestrial Ecology

5.110 Potential terrestrial ecological impacts to habitats in the assessment area resulting from the current Project have been evaluated according to Table 1 of Annex 8 of the EIAO TM, and are summarised in Tables 5.7a-5.7c below.

Table 5.7a Overall Impact Evaluation of Low Shrubland and Tall Shrubland

Evaluation Criteria	Low Shrubland	Tall Shrubland
Habitat quality	Low.	Moderate.
Species	Six floral species (Buttercup Orchid, Spathoglottis pubescens; Phantom Orchid, Habenaria dentata; Balloon Flower, Platycodon grandiflorus; Cycad-fern, Brainea insignis; Silver-back Artocarpus, Artocarpus hypargyreus; and Small Persimmon, Diospyros vaccinioides). Three faunal species (Chinese Cobra, Naja atra; Greater Coucal, Centropus sinensis; and Lesser Coucal, Centropus bengalensis) of conservation importance recorded from this habitat type.	Seven floral species (Buttercup Orchid, Spathoglottis pubescens; Balloon Flower, Platycodon grandiflorus; Chinese Lily, Lilium brownii; Small Persimmon, Diospyros vaccinioides; Long Tentacle Orchid, Peristylus calcaratus; Sword-leaved Orchid, Cymbidium ensifolium, and Green-flowered Rattlesnake-Plantain, Goodyera viridiflora. Six faunal species (Black Kite, Milvus migrans; Crested Goshawk, Accipiter trivirgatus; Collared Scops Owl, Otus bakkamoena; Greater Coucal, Centropus sinensis; Chinese Cobra, Naja atra and Palla’s Squirrel, Callosciurus erythraeus styani) of conservation importance recorded from this habitat type.
Size/Abundance	Direct impact to approximately 3.7ha of habitat in the Headland assessment area.	Direct impact to a total of approximately 4.8ha of habitat in the three assessment areas
Duration	Loss of habitat within footprint of proposed development would be permanent. Indirect construction phase disturbance would last for duration of construction phase. Very minor, permanent increase in disturbance during operational phase.	Loss of habitat within footprint of proposed development would be permanent. Indirect construction phase disturbance would last for duration of construction phase. Very minor, permanent increase in disturbance during operational phase.
Reversibility	Loss of habitat within footprint of proposed development would be irreversible. Indirect construction phase disturbance would be temporary and reversible. Minor increase in disturbance during operational phase will be permanent.	Loss of habitat within footprint of proposed development would be irreversible. Indirect construction phase disturbance would be temporary and reversible. Minor increase in disturbance during operational phase will be permanent.
Magnitude	The scale of the impacts is considered low.	The scale of the impacts is considered low.
Overall impact conclusion	Low	Low to Moderate

Table 5.7b Overall Impact Evaluation of Plantation & Parkland & Developed Areas

Evaluation Criteria	Plantation & Parkland	Developed Area
Habitat quality	Low	Very low
Species	Five faunal species (Black Kite, Milvus migrans; Greater Coucal, Centropus sinensis; Japanese Pipistrelle, Pipistrellus abramus; Dog-faced Fruit Bat, Cynopterus sphinx; and Palla’s Squirrel, Callosciurus erythraeus) of conservation importance recorded from this habitat type.	Two faunal species (Pacific Reef Egret, Egretta sacra; Chinese Pond Heron, Ardeola bacchus) of conservation importance recorded from this habitat.
Size/Abundance	Direct impact to approximately 4.8ha of habitat in the Headland and Lowland assessment area.	Direct impact to approximately 12ha of habitat in the Headland and Lowland assessment area.
Duration	Loss of habitat within footprint of proposed development would be irreversible. Indirect construction phase disturbance would be temporary and reversible. Minor increase in disturbance during operational phase will be permanent.	Loss of habitat within footprint of proposed development would be irreversible. Indirect construction phase disturbance would be temporary and reversible. Minor increase in disturbance during operational phase will be permanent.
Reversibility	Loss of habitat within footprint of proposed development would be irreversible. Indirect construction phase disturbance would be temporary and reversible. Minor increase in disturbance during operational phase will be permanent.	Loss of habitat within footprint of proposed development would be irreversible. Indirect construction phase disturbance would be temporary and reversible. Minor increase in disturbance during operational phase will be permanent.
Magnitude	The scale of the impacts is considered low.	The scale of the impacts is considered low.
Overall impact conclusion	Low	Negligible.

Table 5.7c Overall Impact Evaluation of Freshwater Habitats

Evaluation Criteria	Freshwater Habitats
Habitat quality	The habitat quality ranges from low-moderate.
Species	Two faunal species (Black-crowned Night Heron, Nycticorax nycticorax; and Yellow Bittern, Ixobrychus sinensis) of conservation importance recorded from artificial ponds. No significant records from streams.
Size/Abundance	No habitat loss.
Duration	Indirect construction phase disturbance would be temporary and reversible. Minor increase in disturbance during operational phase will be permanent.
Reversibility	Minor increase in disturbance during operational phase will be permanent.
Magnitude	The scale of the impacts is considered low.
Overall impact conclusion	Artificial Ponds: Low-moderate. Streams: Low

Construction Phase Impacts

Direct Impacts

Habitat Loss

5.111 Potential permanent habitat loss resulting from the proposed works would include: 3.7ha low shrubland, 4.8ha tall shrubland, 4.8ha plantation & parkland, and 12ha developed area.

5.112 For the most part, impacts would be restricted to areas inside of the existing Ocean Park boundary, and therefore limited to relatively low ecological value developed areas, low shrubland and parkland & plantation. These impacts are considered very minor in scale.

5.113 Impacts to more natural shrubland habitats would result from site clearance, excavation and construction works for the attraction areas and the vet pool of the Headland Area and proposed service reservoirs. The areas of low and tall shrubland habitats affected (about 4.9% and 10.4% respectively of each habitat) are relatively small compared to the total area of these habitat types (i.e. tall shrubland approximately 46ha, low shrubland 75ha) within the assessment area. The impacts to low shrubland habitats are considered relatively minor in scale. The overall impacts to tall shrubland habitats with higher habitat quality, are also considered low to moderate..

Impacts to Vegetation

5.114 Individuals of nine plant species of conservation interest fall within the footprint of works proposed under this Project (refer to Figure 5.1). One individual of Long Tentacle Orchid (P. calcaratus) and Green-flowered Rattlesnake-Plantain (G. viridiflora); approximately 5 individuals of each of Buttercup Orchid (S. pubescens), Phantom Orchid (H. dentata), and Cycad-fern (B. insignis); a colony of about 20 individual of Chinese Lily (L. brownii); and a number of Balloon Flower (P. grandiflorus), Sword-leaved Orchid (C. ensifolium), and Small Persimmon (D. vaccinioides) were recorded within the footprint of the proposed Summit attraction area (Headland Area) during the surveys. The loss of a relatively small number of individuals of the Buttercup Orchid, Phantom Orchid, Balloon Flower and Small Persimmon would be a minor impact, given that these affected species are locally common and widespread and are not threatened in Hong Kong. However, given the apparent globally endangered status of Small Persimmon, regional importance of Cycad-fern, and the conservation value of the Buttercup Orchid, Balloon Flower, Phantom Orchid, Long Tentacle Orchid, Sword-leaved Orchid and Chinese Lily, potential direct impacts to these species will be mitigated.

5.115 Although the area of more valued habitat affected (by excavation works of the Headland Area) is relatively small, tall shrubland is considered of moderate ecological value, and provides potential breeding habitat for fauna, such as Black Kites. The loss of tall shrubland habitat would require mitigation.

Impacts to Fauna

5.116 The tall shrubland habitat located in the Headland Area would be affected by site clearance, excavation and construction works for the attraction areas of the Summit and proposed service reservoir. The tall shrubland habitat affected is considered of moderate ecological value and provides a potential breeding habitat for Black Kites. Potential direct impact to any Black Kite nests and chicks that may be present in the project area would not occur, because site clearance works at the Headland Area are scheduled to commence in September 2006 outside the breeding season of Black Kite (from October to May). Impact to Black Kite and other fauna due to habitat loss is considered minor as there are suitable adequate nearby alternative habitats and potential nesting sites available in the remaining tall shrubland habitat as well as elsewhere nearby the Ocean Park site, including areas in Wong Chuk Hang and Shouson Hill. Direct impact to fauna of utilizing low shrubland in the Headland Area is expected to be relatively minor in scale, as the affected low shrubland habitat recorded close to the proposed works areas are of low ecological value.

Indirect Impacts

Disturbance Impacts

5.117 Indirect impacts to habitats and associated communities adjacent to the works areas could result from increased human activities/disturbance during the construction phase. Such impacts could arise from excavation work, noise-generating machinery, and general increases in human activity. The ecological effects of disturbance are complex and difficult to measure (Treweek, 1999), and therefore the extent to which any particular disturbance source affects nearby communities is difficult to predict with any degree of accuracy.

5.118 Construction phase disturbance in the Lowland Area is expected to be relatively minor in scale, as the plantation/parkland and developed area recorded close to the proposed works areas are mostly of low ecological value (i.e., from very low to low ecological value). Furthermore, few of the faunal species recorded from the assessment area (both lowland and headland) are considered to be particularly sensitive to disturbance, with species commonly recorded from the assessment area often found in urban areas or similar disturbed habitats. Any of the species potentially disturbed by construction phase activities would therefore be likely to relocate to nearby areas further from the source of disturbance. In the unlikely event that indirect disturbance to Black Kites were to occur, there are suitable adequate nearby alternative habitats and potential nesting sites available in the remaining tall shrubland habitat as well as elsewhere nearby the Ocean Park site. An artificial pond located to the west of the existing Bird Theatre in the Lowland Area also provides alternative freshwater habitat for the Black-crowned Night Heron that might be affected by the proposed works near the Lowland pond.

5.119 Excavation and blasting will be required during the construction of the Summit in the Headland Area. The disturbance impact to the fauna associated with the shrubland habitat of low to moderate value adjacent to the excavation and blasting area is expected to be low to moderate. Alternative shrubland habitats are available to the south and west of Nam Long Shan Road near the proposed work site of the Headland Area. Further description of impacts to species of conservation interest recorded from the assessment area is presented in Table 5.8.

Dumping/Dust Deposition

5.120 Impacts resulting from improper dumping of construction materials/wastes and deposition of dust on vegetation adjacent to works areas can be avoided and minimised to acceptable levels through the implementation of standard good site practice. These potential impacts are considered very minor in scale.

Sedimentation/Water Quality Impacts

5.121 Sediment laden runoff if uncontrolled may carry pollutants (adsorbed onto the particle surfaces) into the artificial ponds and streams at Tai Shue Wan and the Lowland Area. Mitigation measures would be implemented to control construction site runoff and drainage from the works areas, and to prevent runoff and drainage water with high levels of suspended solids from entering nearby water bodies. With the implementation of adequate construction site drainage and provision of sediment removal facilities as described in Section 9.38, it is anticipated that unacceptable water quality impacts would not arise.

Operation Phase Impacts

Disturbance Impacts

5.122 No substantial increases in direct and indirect ecological impacts are expected over and above existing impacts resulting from the current operation of the Park.

Impacts to Species of Conservation Importance

5.123 Key impacts to species of conservation importance recorded from the assessment area have been described above. A summary of potential construction and operation phase impacts to all species of conservation importance recorded from the assessment area is provided in Table 5.8.

Table 5.8 Overall Impacts to Species of Conservation Interest

Species of Conservation Interest		Construction Phase Impacts		Operational Phase Impacts
Common Name	Scientific Name	Description	Evaluation	Description	Evaluation
Flora
Silver-back Artocarpus	Artocarpus hypargyreus	Individuals of these species fall outside of works areas, no impacts predicted.	No Impact	No impact.	No Impact.
Small Persimmon	Diospyros vaccinioides	Individuals of this species recorded within the footprint of “The Summit” in the Headland Area. Individuals within this area would be directly impacted.	Moderate	No impact.	No Impact.
Chinese Lily	Lilium brownii	Individuals of this species recorded within the footprint of “The Summit” in the Headland Area. Individuals within this area would be directly impacted.	Low to Moderate	No impact.	No Impact.
Incense Tree	Aquilaria sinensis	Individuals of this species recorded within the footprint of “Birds of Paradise” in the Lowland Area. Individual within this area would be preserved in-situ..	Low	No impact.	No Impact.
Balloon Flower	Platycodon grandiflorus	Individuals of this species recorded within the footprint of “The Summit” in the Headland Area. Individuals within this area would be directly impacted.	Low to Moderate	No impact.	No Impact.
Cycad-fern	Brainea insignis	Individuals of this species recorded within the footprint of “The Summit” in the Headland Area. Individuals within this area would be directly impacted.	Low to Moderate	No impact.	No Impact.
Phantom Orchid	Habenaria dentata	Individuals of this species recorded within the footprint of “The Summit” in the Headland Area. Individuals within this area would be directly impacted.	Low to Moderate	No impact.	No Impact.
Buttercup orchid	Spathoglottis pubescens	Individuals of this species recorded within the footprint of “The Summit” in the Headland Area. Individuals within this area would be directly impacted.	Low to Moderate	No impact.	No Impact.
Long Tentacle Orchid	Peristylus calcaratus	Individuals of this species recorded within the footprint of “The Summit” in the Headland Area. Individuals within this area would be directly impacted.	Moderate	No impact.	No Impact.
Sword-leaved Orchid	Cymbidium ensifolium	Individuals of this species recorded within the footprint of “The Summit” in the Headland Area. Individuals within this area would be directly impacted.	Moderate	No impact.	No Impact.
Green-flowered Rattlesnake-Plantain	Goodyera viridiflora	Individuals of this species recorded within the footprint of “The Summit” in the Headland Area. Individuals within this area would be directly impacted.	Moderate	No impact.	No Impact
Fauna
Avifauna
Little Egret	Egretta garzetta	A single Little Egret recorded from rocky shore in the Tai Shue Wan Area. Indirect impacts anticipated to result from disturbance caused by increased human activity and noisy construction phase activities (e.g. temporary barge near seawall).	Low	No impact	No impact
Pacific Reef Egret	Egretta sacra	Recorded from rocky shore and seawall habitats in the Headland Area. Indirect impacts anticipated to result from disturbance caused by increased human activity and noisy construction phase activities (e.g. temporary barge near seawall).	Low	No impact	No impact
Black-crowned Night Heron	Nycticorax nycticorax	Recorded from artificial pond habitats in the Headland and Lowland Area. Indirect impacts anticipated to result from disturbance caused by increased human activity and noisy construction phase activities.	Low	No substantial impacts to this species is expected during the operation phase.	Very Low
Yellow Bittern	Ixobrychus sinensis	The single record of this species from the artificial pond habitats in the Lowland Area was probably a passage migrant or summer visitor. Impacts are therefore expected to be minor.	Low	The single record of this species from the artificial pond habitats in the Lowland Area was probably a passage migrant or summer visitor. Impacts are therefore expected to be minor.	Low
Chinese Pond Heron	Ardeola bacchus	Recorded from developed area of Po Chong Wan. Impacts are therefore expected to be minor.	Very Low	No impact	No impact
White-bellied Sea Eagle	Haliaeetus leucogaster	Records of this species from the Headland and Lowland Area limited to a single bird soaring over the assessment area or foraging at a location distant from the proposed works area (Deep Water Bay and Middle Island). Impacts are therefore expected to be minor.	Very Low	Records of this species from the Headland and Lowland Area limited to single birds soaring over the assessment area or foraging at a location distant from the proposed works area (Deep Water Bay and Middle Island). Impacts are therefore expected to be minor.	Very Low
Black Kite	Milvus migrans	Records of this species from the Headland and Lowland Area limited to approximately 20 birds soaring above Nam Long Shan and perching in various locations. Direct impacts on the potential breeding site anticipated to result from the loss of tall shrubland habitats due to site clearance at the Headland Area. A single large nest possibly constructed by Black Kite was recorded from tall shrubland habitat near the proposed temporary conveyor belt system of Tai Shue Wan Area. Indirect impacts may result from disturbance caused by increased human activity and noisy construction phase activities.	Moderate	Black Kites are widespread in Hong Kong, including disturbed habitats such as high density urban areas. No substantial impact to this species is expected during the operation phase.	Very Low
Crested Goshawk	Accipiter trivirgatus	A single Crested Goshawk recorded from tall shrubland habitat of the Headland Area. Indirect impacts anticipated to result from disturbance caused by increased human activity and noisy construction phase activities (e.g. excavation).	Low	No Impact	No Impact
Collared Scops Owl	Otus bakkamoena	A single Collared Scops Owl recorded from tall shrubland habitat of the Tai Shue Wan Area. Indirect impacts anticipated to result from disturbance caused by increased human activity and noisy construction phase activities (e.g. excavation and operation of temporary conveyor belt system).	Low	No Impact	No Impact
Greater Coucal	Centropus sinensis	Recorded from various habitats throughout the survey period. Indirect impacts anticipated to result from disturbance caused by increased human activity and noisy construction phase activities.	Low	No Impact	No Impact
Lesser Coucal	Centropus bengalensis	A single Lesser Coucal recorded from low shrubland habitat. Indirect impacts anticipated to result from disturbance caused by increased human activity and noisy construction phase activities.	Low	No Impact	No Impact
Herpetofauna
Chinese Cobra	Naja atra	Chinese Cobra recorded from shrubland habitats of the assessment area is common and widespread in Hong Kong and often recorded in urban/other disturbed areas. The species is not considered especially sensitive to disturbance, and have no specialised habitat requirements. Individuals potentially disturbed by construction phase activities would therefore be likely to relocate to nearby areas further from the source of disturbance. Potential impacts are therefore considered minor.	Very Low	Chinese Cobra recorded from shrubland habitats of the assessment area is common and widespread in Hong Kong and often recorded in urban/other disturbed areas. The species is not considered especially sensitive to disturbance, and have no specialised habitat requirements. Potential impacts are therefore considered minor.	Very Low
Mammals
Japanese Pipistrelle	Pipistrellus abramus	All three species recorded from the parkland habitat of the assessment area are common and widespread in Hong Kong and often recorded in urban/other disturbed areas. They not considered especially sensitive to disturbance, and have no specialised habitat requirements. Any of the species potentially disturbed by construction phase activities would therefore be likely to relocate to nearby areas further from the source of disturbance. Potential impacts are therefore considered minor.	Very Low	All three species recorded from the parkland habitat of the assessment area are common and widespread in Hong Kong and often recorded in urban/other disturbed areas. They not considered especially sensitive to disturbance, and have no specialised habitat requirements. Potential impacts are therefore considered minor.	Very Low
Dog-faced Fruit Bat	Cynopterus sphinx sphinx
Palla’s Squirrel	Callosciurus erythraeus
Corals
Hard Corals (Please refer to Table 5.2)		A total of 19 hard coral species recorded from the subtidal habitat of the assessment area. Two of the hard corals are uncommon in Hong Kong. No direct impacts to coral species would be expected. Sediment laden runoff particularly from works areas subjected to excavation or earth works, if uncontrolled, may carry pollutants into the sea via drains. Possible indirect impact on corals may arise due to water quality deterioration due to siltation effect of suspended solids.	Very Low	No direct impact. No substantial increases in indirect ecological impacts is expected over and above existing impacts resulting from the current operation of the Park.	Very Low

Marine Ecology

5.124 Potential marine ecological impacts to habitats in the assessment area resulting from the current Project have been evaluated and are summarised in Tables 5.7d-5.7e below.

Table 5.7d Overall Impact Evaluation of Rocky Shore and Sandy Habitats

Evaluation Criteria	Rocky Shore Habitats	Sandy Shore Habitats
Habitat quality	The habitat quality ranges from low-moderate.	Low
Species	One faunal species (Pacific Reef Egret, Egretta sacra) of conservation importance recorded from rocky shore.	No significant records.
Size/Abundance	No habitat loss.	No habitat loss.
Duration	Minor, temporary increase in disturbance during construction phase. Very minor, permanent increase in disturbance during operational phase.	Minor, temporary increase in disturbance during construction phase. Very minor, permanent increase in disturbance during operational phase.
Reversibility	Minor increase in disturbance during operational phase will be permanent.	Minor increase in disturbance during operational phase will be permanent.
Magnitude	The scale of the impacts is considered very low.	The scale of the impacts is considered very low.
Overall impact conclusion	Negligible.	Negligible.

Table 5.7e Overall Impact Evaluation of Artificial Seawall and Subtidal Habitats

Evaluation Criteria	Artificial Seawall Habitats	Subtidal Habitat
Habitat quality	Low	Moderate
Species	One faunal species (Pacific Reef Egret, Egretta sacra) of conservation importance recorded from artificial seawall.	Hard corals and octocorals occur along the coast.
Size/Abundance	No habitat loss.	No habitat loss
Duration	Minor, temporary increase in disturbance during construction phase. Very minor, permanent increase in disturbance during operational phase.	Minor, temporary increase in disturbance during construction phase. Very minor, permanent increase in disturbance during operational phase.
Reversibility	Minor increase in disturbance during operational phase will be permanent.	Minor increase in disturbance during operational phase will be permanent.
Magnitude	The scale of the impacts is considered very low.	The scale of the impacts is considered very low.
Overall impact conclusion	Negligible.	Negligible.

Construction Phase Impacts

Direct Impacts

5.125 As there would not be any marine-based construction works for this Project, no direct impacts to marine ecological resources during construction phase are anticipated

Indirect Impacts

5.126 The potential indirect construction phase impact associated with the proposed land-based construction works would include construction site runoff and drainage on subtidal habitat. Possible indirect impact on subtidal habitat may arise due to water quality deterioration and particularly due to siltation effect during period of bulk excavation (the overall duration of excavation would be approximately 10 months.) in the Headland area.

5.127 Hard corals are known to be at particular risk of deleterious impacts from sedimentation through smothering and clogging of their respiratory and feeding apparatus. Similarly, more turbid water may reduce the amount of light reaching beneath the water surface, which may also detrimental to hard corals. With less alight, growth rates of hermatypic hard corals (coral which possess photosynthetic algae called zooanthellae) may be reduced. The vulnerability of different corals to sedimentation effect is not the same. For instance, hard corals with horizontal plate-like growth forms are more vulnerable. In contrast soft or gorgonian corals are considered to have greater tolerance of turbid conditions. Owing to their flexible branches and erect growth forms, it is known that the soft and gorgonian corals are not prone to sediment accumulation. Furthermore, gorgonian and most soft corals feed independently without contributions from algal associates and therefore not affected by light reduction due to turbidity.

5.128 In terms of sediment impacts on coral communities, water quality mitigation measures specified in paragraph 9.44, including minimization of exposed soil surfaces, interception of site drainage and provision of sediment removal facilities, are considered sufficient. But as a precautionary measure, the construction phase discharge arising from the main Summit excavation would be diverted away from the southern tip of Nam Long Shan headland to the outlet of the existing stormwater pipe of about 1000mm diameter at Tai Shue Wan (see Figure 5.3). In addition, sand/ silt removal facilities with enhanced performance would be used and during the wet season, a silt curtain would be deployed at the discharge outlet. As well as avoiding the more natural, undisturbed areas having higher coral density and diversity (hence higher value), the mitigation measures would ensure that the risk of turbid run-off water impacting on coral communities would be acceptably low. With these measures in place, it is considered that no unacceptable impacts on coral communities would occur.

Operation Phase Impacts

Direct Impacts

5.129 No direct marine ecological impacts are expected during the operation stage of the Project.

Indirect Impacts

5.130 There would not be any sewage discharge to the sea from Ocean Park and the stormwater discharge from surface runoff would be discharged via existing drains. During the operation phase, no substantial increases in indirect ecological impacts are expected over and above existing impacts resulting from the current operation of the Park.

Cumulative Impacts

5.131 At the time of writing, there are no other current or planned projects that have potential for cumulative direct and/or indirect ecological impacts in the assessment area.

Mitigation of Adverse Environmental Impacts

5.132 Following EIAO-TM Annex 16 guidelines, mitigation measures are discussed in this section to avoid, minimise and compensate for identified ecological impacts.

Avoid

5.133 The Construction design has been considered to avoid impact to the species of conservation interest where possible. Existing Ocean Park facilities (at Tai Shue Wan, Headland and Lowland Areas), are largely surrounded by steep natural terrain. Redevelopment in the headland area in particular, is constrained by natural terrain and any expansion would inevitably result in impacts to shrubland habitat. Nevertheless, some measures have been adopted to avoid impacts to tall shrubland and marine habitat:

· The design of conveyor belt system and the location of tunnel has been considered to avoid impact to potential nest sites in the tall shrubland habitat at Tai Shue Wan Area where possible.

· The site clearance works before excavation in the Headland Area will commence before the breeding season of Black Kite and there would not be any direct impact on nesting activities.

· The service reservoir originally proposed near the Summit of Nam Long Shan has been relocated such that the reservoir would integrate with the newly formed rock slope and be fully within the footprint of formed land within the Summit development. Loss of tall shrubland due to the original proposal would be avoided.

· Construction phase discharges (containing run-off drainage water from the main Summit excavation) would be diverted from the existing outlet at the southern part of Nam Long Shan headland (a relatively natural and undisturbed area) to an existing stormwater pipe outlet at Tai Shue Wan (a more disturbed area with very limited marine communities. Therefore impacts on the valued coral communities around the Nam Long Shan headland would be avoided.

· Marine-based construction works are avoided to conserve the marine ecological resources.

5.134 Existing man-made freshwater ponds, one located in Tai Shue Wan Area and another one in Lowland Area, would be preserved to avoid disturbance of the roosting site of birds such as Black-crowned Pond Heron.

Minimise

5.135 Where avoidance of impacts has proved impracticable, the design of construction works have been considered to minimise impacts to the more valuable areas such as the existing shrubland habitat. The proposed funicular train at the Headland area would be in tunnel to minimise impacts to natural terrain. The alignment of the elevated structure will be designed to minimize impact to the existing shrubland habitat as far as practicable.

5.136 To minimise the disturbance to freshwater habitats and marine ecological sensitive receivers in particular coral communities, mitigation measures would be implemented to control construction site runoff and drainage from the works areas, and to prevent runoff and drainage water with high levels of suspended solids from entering the artificial ponds, any nearby temporary streams and drains. All excavation works carried out close to water bodies would be carefully controlled to avoid runoff entering watercourses, especially during periods of heavy rain. Site runoff would be directed towards regularly cleaned and maintained silt traps and where appropriate, oil/grease separators to minimise risk of sedimentation and pollution. Contractor should design interceptors of suitable size/capacity. Apart from the above mitigation measures, coral monitoring would be implemented as a precautionary measure.

5.137 Noise mitigation measures including the use of quiet excavation methods, quiet construction plant and temporary noise barriers. Implementing such measures would minimise disturbance to habitats adjacent to the work areas.

5.138 The surveys conducted under this EIA identified nine plant species of conservation interest (Table 5.8 refers) in the Headland and Lowland Area that would have the potential to be directly impacted by the proposed developments under this Project. As a mitigation measure, the affected individuals would be transplanted to suitable nearby habitats prior to the construction phase as far as practicable. A detailed vegetation survey covered the affected tall and low shrubland habitat would be conducted by a suitably qualified botanist/ ecologist to identify and record the affected individuals in order to provide details for the transplantation scheme prior to the commencement of site clearance works. It is recognised that some affected plant species are of conservation interest, but are very common or common in Hong Kong. It would be therefore impossible to locate and transplant all of them. Therefore, vegetation survey and subsequent transplantation would apply to the locally uncommon or restricted species, which are Long Tentacle Orchid, Sword-leaved Orchid, Green-flowered Rattlesnake-Plantain, Cycad-fern, Balloon Flower and Chinese Lily. Feasibility and suitability of transplanting the affected plant species of conservation interest would be carefully studied and suitable receptor sites would be identified. Transplantation would be supervised by a suitably qualified botanist/ horticulturist. A detailed transplantation methodology would be formulated during the detailed design stage for this Project base on the information collected during the detailed vegetation survey.

5.139 Standard good site practice measures would be implemented and would include:

· Placement of equipment or stockpile in designated works areas and access routes selected on existing disturbed land to minimise disturbance to natural habitats.

· Construction activities would be restricted to the work areas that would be clearly demarcated.

· The work areas would be reinstated immediately after completion of the works.

· Waste skips would be provided to collect general refuse and construction wastes. The wastes would be disposed of timely and properly off-site.

· Drainage arrangements would include sediment traps to collect and control construction run-off.

· Open burning on works sites is illegal, and will be strictly enforced.

· Landscaping works on newly reclaimed land will as far as possible make use of native plant species.

Compensate

5.140 Tree preservation would be taken into account in the Project and trees located within the works area would be preserved as far as practicable. A tree survey would be conducted to identify any mature trees affected by the proposed works. If tree felling is unavoidable, feasibility of tree transplantation would be explored and compensatory planting would be provided on at least a 1:1 ratio.

5.141 The loss of 4.8ha tall shrubland habitat will be compensated by planting native tall shrubs to enhance the ecological value of an existing low shrubland area with relatively low species diversity located to the north of Nam Long Shan Road close to the affected area. The identified area for compensation is approximately 6ha. Plantation of native tall shrubs similar to affected tall shrubland would enhance the ecological value of the low shrubland habitat by increasing species diversity and also provide alternative habitats for the fauna affected by the proposed works in the long term. (Figure 5.4 refers).

5.142 Overall, the loss of small areas of relatively low ecological value habitats (i.e. plantation, parkland, low shrubland and developed area) resulting from this Project is considered a minor impact, and no specific mitigation is deemed necessary to compensate for terrestrial habitat loss.

Evaluation of Residual Impacts

5.143 With the proposed mitigation measures in place, residual impacts resulting from the proposed works would be largely be limited to the minor increases in disturbance to habitats adjacent to proposed development areas. Disturbance impacts are considered relatively minor in scale due to the low ecological value of affected habitats, the presence of nearby similar habitat, and existing sources of disturbance close to the proposed developments.

Environmental Monitoring and Audit

5.144 The implementation of all mitigation measures described above would be subject to regular audit.

5.145 Following transplantation, the health and condition of individuals of the species of conservation interest affected by the proposed works would be monitored. Monitoring would cover the 12-month period following transplantation, and be conducted at least once a month. Monitoring would be conducted by a suitably qualified botanist/horticulturalist appointed by the Project Proponent.

5.146 No adverse impact on coral communities would be anticipated during the construction and operation phase of the Project, nevertheless, coral monitoring is proposed as a precautionary measure. The coral monitoring programme would focus on the coral communities located close to potentially impacted areas. The details of monitoring programme are discussed in the EM&A manual.

Conclusion

5.147 The results of ecological surveys on terrestrial and marine ecological resources undertaken in this study identified 9 habitat types within the assessment area comprising tall shrubland, low shrubland, parkland/plantation, developed area, freshwater habitats, rocky shore, sandy shore artificial seawall and subtidal habitat. The identified tall shrubland and subtidal habitat are considered to have moderate ecological value. The freshwater habitats, rocky shore were regards as of low to moderate value, and all other habitats of low to very low value.

5.148 Eleven species of flora and 34 fauna (including 19 hard coral species) of conservation interest have been recorded from the assessment area close to the works areas.

5.149 The key issue in terms of ecological impacts would include the habitat loss, direct impact on 9 plant species of conservation interest and the disturbance impacts to habitats and associated communities adjacent to the works areas arising from the excavation works of Nam Long Shan (The Headland Area) during the construction stage.

5.150 Potential permanent habitat loss resulting from the proposed works would include: 3.7ha low shrubland, 4.8ha tall shrubland, 4.8ha plantation & parkland, and 12ha developed area. The loss of the tall shrubland with moderate ecological would be mitigated through the provision of compensatory planting with total area of approximately 6ha.

5.151 The 9 plant species that would be directly affected by the project including Buttercup Orchid (S. pubescens), Long Tentacle Orchid (P. calcaratus), Sword-leaved Orchid (C. ensifolium), Green-flowered Rattlesnake-Plantain (G. viridiflora), Phantom Orchid (H. dentata), Balloon Flower (P. grandiflorus), Chinese Lily (L. brownii), Cycad-fern (B. insignis), and Small Persimmon (D. vaccinioides). To minimize potential impacts on plant species of conservation interest, the construction design has been considered to avoid impact to these species. If avoidance of these plant species is not feasible, affected individuals of 6 locally uncommon or restricted species would be transplanted to suitable nearby habitats prior to construction as far as practicable. A detailed vegetation survey of the affected plants within the works area would be conducted to identify the affected individuals for the transplantation scheme.

5.152 Other potential sources of ecological impact would comprise disturbance impacts to habitats and associated communities adjacent to the works areas that could result from increased human activities/disturbance during the construction phase. Such impacts would arise from excavation work, noise-generating machinery, and general increases in human activity. Noise mitigation measures including the use of quiet construction plant and temporary noise barriers would be implemented to minimise disturbance to habitats adjacent to the works areas.

5.153 With the implementation of these recommended mitigation measures, the construction works for the proposed works would not result in unacceptable impacts on ecological sensitive receivers. The implementation of all mitigation measures would be subject to regular audit. In addition, the plant species of conservation interest affected by the proposed works would be monitored following transplantation.

5.154 No modification work to the existing boat jetty is proposed under the redevelopment of Park and thus there would not be any marine-based constrcuction works for this Project. No direct impacts on marine ecological resources are anticipated. With implementation of water quality mitigation measures and good site management practice, no adverse impact on coral communities would be anticipated during the construction and operation phases of the project. Nevertheless, coral monitoring is proposed as a precautionary measure. The coral monitoring programmed would focus on the coral communities located close to potentially impacted areas.

5.155 Further operation of the Park would not result in substantial increases in direct and indirect ecological impacts, over and above existing impacts resulting from the current operation of the Park.

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