Talk of the town：Protecting wild animals in Hong Kong(组图)

发布 : 2024-10-09  来源 : 明报新闻网 用微信扫描二维码，分享至好友和朋友圈

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Black-faced spoonbills are an endangered species that can be found in the New Territories, Hong Kong.



（明报制图）


【明报专讯】The elusive Eurasian otter (欧亚水獭) is listed as Class II protected species in China. It was discovered by the Kadoorie Farm and Botanic Garden research team in February this year at the confluence of the Ng Tung River (梧桐河) and Sheung Yue River (双鱼河) near Sheung Shui, where they found what appeared to be animal secretions. Subsequent genetic testing confirmed that it indeed belonged to the Eurasian otter.

They argue that as the government develops the northern metropolis(北部都会区), it should not only preserve the integrity and connectivity of wetlands but also actively revitalize artificial waterways and improve water quality. This will create a wildlife-friendly environment for otters and other wild animals to find habitats and food in the urban areas.

◆What is a wildlife corridor?

Wildlife corridors are typically designed to facilitate the movement of wildlife while minimizing interference from human activities. They are intended to connect natural habitats and provide safe passage for animals, helping to reduce the negative impacts of human activities.

◆Is the trade-off between human activities and wildlife protections unavoidable?

The trade-off between human activities and wildlife protection is not inherently unavoidable. With careful planning, sustainable practices, and innovative solutions, it is possible to strike a balance that benefits both humans and wildlife.

By implementing measures such as wildlife corridors, habitat restoration, responsible development practices, and conservation efforts, it is feasible to coexist harmoniously with wildlife while still allowing human activities to thrive.

■Grammar booster

Strike a balance

If you strike a balance between two things, you accept parts of both things in order to satisfy some of the demands of both sides in an argument, rather than all the demands of just one side.

E.g. Tom is trying to strike a balance between study and leisure.

■Gear up

The Eurasian otter is also being protected in Mainland China.

(True/False)

(Answer on next text)

■Game

Decode the message

(See the picture)

(Answer on next text)

■Glossary

elusive (adj) 难以找到的

revitalize (v) 活化

habitats (n) 栖息地

interference (n) 干扰

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[Smarties' Power English 第416期]