New residents at Tai Po Kau

As Hong Kong's replanted forest has matured, a series of species have colonised (or re-colonised) the central New Territories. The latest bird to take up residence is the Chinese Barbet, a resident of southern China which has apparently spread eastward from its strongholds in Guangxi and Guangdong. The Chinese Barbet is closely related to the Taiwan Barbet, which however has quite different vocalizations and behaviour, having adapted to urban parks.
According to local expert Richard Lewthwaite, the presence of Chinese Barbets is an indicator of forest quality and the species needs mature forest with dead trees for nesting holes. It has been seen (or heard) in and around Tai Po Kau since 2014. Today its machine-gun-like call resounded around the valley. One perched prominently at the top of a bare branch while calling, presumably establishing its territory.
Other recent immigrant species seen and heard today included Huet's Fulvetta, Mountain and Chestnut Bulbuls, and Hainan Blue Flycatchers which were singing along the stream. The Yellow-cheeked Tit is one of several species thought to have been introduced, but which might also have spread naturally.

Posted on April 6, 2021 05:01 AM by stephenmatthews