An uninhabited island near Po Toi Island in southern Hong Kong waters serves as a regular breeding site for terns, a bird species sensitive to human disturbance [1]. On May 2, the second day of China's Labour Day holiday, a bird watcher observed five people landing on the island and unloading backpacks and other items [1].
Terns are extremely sensitive to disruption and may abandon their nests if disturbed, risking the future use of the island for breeding. A spokesperson for conservation group Green Hope Hong Kong said, "These birds are extremely sensitive by nature; if disturbed, they may abandon their nests. Once they abandon their breeding grounds on the island, it is very difficult for them to return in the future" [1].
Globally, about 40 tern species exist, while 12 have been recorded in Hong Kong waters [1]. Three of these species use outlying rocky islands around Hong Kong as breeding grounds during the summer months [1]. The island near Po Toi is one such breeding site.
Green Hope Hong Kong has urged boat operators and tourists to refrain from bringing visitors to these islands during the sensitive breeding period. They stressed, "We urge boat operators and tourists to avoid picking up visitors for transport to, or landing on, these tern breeding islands during the ecologically sensitive period" [1].
Authorities and conservationists are expected to monitor the situation closely to prevent further disturbances during this critical time for seabird breeding.
