I was born in Hong Kong, raised in Canada, and have called a handful of other countries home along the way. As a third-culture kid — now a third-culture adult — I've never quite fit into a single box.
Maybe that's why, now that I'm back living in Hong Kong for the second time as an adult, this time with my own kids in tow, I've fallen for a version of the city that doesn't fit into one either.
The minute you step off the plane, there's a hint of something wonderful ahead: the humidity, the palm trees, the gentle breeze, that indescribable yet familiar scent. Follow that trail, and you'll find a Hong Kong that is more lush, more alive, and more mysterious than pop media ever portrayed.
As I rediscover this city for myself, I want to bring you along — sharing what I learn, and helping you unlearn the stereotypes that paint a pretty flat picture of a complex city. Right now, I'm wonder-struck, and honestly a little overjoyed, by just how abundant and accessible nature is here.
I'm learning about Hong Kong's ecology through everyday life — trying to identify species of birds, insects, plants, and other critters that are new to me — and through conversations and workshops with people deeply involved in the field, across non-profit, academic, civil service, and private-sector organizations.
As a tidbit: did you know Hong Kong is home to over 3,000 species of vascular plants, 55 species of terrestrial mammals, nearly 600 species of birds, over 100 species of reptiles and amphibians, almost 250 species of butterflies, and over 130 species of dragonflies (AFCD). In the water, Hong Kong is home to nearly 6,000 recorded marine species — more than 25% of China's marine biodiversity (HKMPA).
For such a small area, the biodiversity here is truly astounding.
By day, I work at a campsite and adventure park. By night, I'm a doctoral student and consultant in the ecotourism and conservation fields. I'm neither an outsider nor an insider — which feels fitting, because I'm learning there's no single identity for our beloved city. There's something for everyone here, and something unique to discover every day.
Which brings me to sharing ways you can discover something new in Hong Kong too. Our backyard is vast, and there's much to explore.
Check out this roundup of events happening throughout August, celebrating Hong Kong's National Ecology Day on Aug. 15, 2026 — a chance to discover this city's unique ecology and incredible biodiversity, and to raise awareness around environmental protection and conservation.
Aug. 15, 2026: Hong Kong Wetland Park: Free admission!
Located in Tin Shui Wai, Hong Kong Wetland Park demonstrates the biodiversity of Hong Kong and highlights the need for conservation. The Visitor Centre has themed exhibition galleries, a theatre, a souvenir shop, and an indoor play area, while the reserve has a variety of different habitats specifically designated for birds. Learn more about the event here and Hong Kong Wetland Park here.
Aug. 15, 22, 23, 30, 2026: National Ecology Day Exclusive Tour
This Country Park National Ecology Day Exclusive Tour is an AFCD initiative to raise public awareness of ecological civilization and environmental protection. Held over four days with two different themes, participants can join a tour led by country park guides. For more info and to register, click here.
Aug. 16, 20, 22, 23, 29, 2026: Coastal Cleanups
Green Power is running a series of guided tours and coastal cleanups around Hong Kong throughout the month of August. Learn about Hong Kong’s ecological resources and take action! Learn more.
Aug. 23, 2026: Macro Ecology Photography Workshop
Discover the mysteries of the micro world through photography at Saiyuen in Cheung Chau. This Macro Ecology Photography Workshop is custom-tailored for parents and children aged 6 or above. Skip dry photography theories and use an immersive approach of "Exploratory Games × Practical Guidance × Ecological Learning. Register now.
Aug. 23, 2026: Fantastic Reef Fishes & Where to Find Them Book Talk
Did you know there are over 400 reef fish species in Hong Kong?
Discover the world of Hong Kong’s underwater wonders and meet the team behind this new book, a decade in the making, Fantastic Reef Fishes and Where to Find Them. Organized by Encompass HK. Get your tickets!
Aug. 30, 2026: Swire Family Fun Day at the HK Maritime Museum
Celebrating 30 years of Hong Kong Marine Parks and supporting Hong Kong's Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (BSAP), this special event, sponsored by the Swire Trust, brings together the AFCD, conservation partners, educators and the community to promote marine biodiversity and environmental conservation at the Hong Kong Maritime Museum.
For more National Ecology Day events, visit the Countryside Conservation Office National Ecology Day event calendar.
