7. Terrestrial Ecology

7.2 Environmental Legislation, Policies, Plans, Standards and Criteria

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

7.2.2 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.

7.2.3 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 that 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.

7.2.4 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.

7.2.5 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.

7.2.6 Chapter 10 of the 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. It also describes enforcement issues. The appendices list the legislation and administrative controls for conservation, other conservation related measures in Hong Kong and government departments involved in conservation.

7.2.7 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.

7.2.8 EIAO Guidance Note No. 6/2002 clarifies the requirements of ecological assessments under the EIAO.

7.2.9 EIAO Guidance Note No. 7/2002 provides general guidelines for conducting ecological baseline surveys in order to fulfil requirements stipulated in the EIAO-TM.

7.2.10 The 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.

7.2.11 The Key Protected Wildlife Species List details Category I and Category II protected animal species under Mainland Chinese Legislation.

· Most of the proposed works would be undertaken in and around the recently constructed Tseung Kwan O New Town Development, including the Eastern Drainage Channel, which is a wholly artificial watercourse constructed within recently reclaimed areas of Tseung Kwan O (please refer to Appendix 7.5 for details of the Channel layout and built design). This densely populated and highly urbanised environment has been largely constructed on recently reclaimed land, and is considered of little ecological interest.

· Much of the works associated with the proposed development that would be conducted outside of the urbanised areas are not expected to impact terrestrial ecological sensitive receivers. Outside of the Tseung Kwan O New Town, the major development under this proposal would be the Western Coast Road (WCR). Most of this development would be constructed and operated in tunnel, and would therefore not result in terrestrial ecology impacts.

7.3.2 Because of the negligible terrestrial ecological impacts expected across much of the proposed Development Area, impact assessment in this Section focuses on three areas where a potential for direct and/or indirect impacts to terrestrial ecological sensitive receivers was identified. In each of the three areas, ecological assessment included terrestrial habitats up to 500m from the proposed works areas. The three areas assessed comprised:

· Western Coast Road tunnel portal, reclamation and approach road along the western coastline of Junk Bay. (Hereafter referred to as the E-WCR Assessment Area).

· Approach road and tunnel portal for the Western Coast Road at Cha Kwo Ling and Kwong Tin Estate. (Hereafter referred to as the W-WCR Assessment Area).

· Works at Pak Shing Kok (PSK) would comprise the construction of a residential development in the site of the abandoned quarry (Development Area 78) and infrastructure improvements. As the site is presently covered with wasteland, direct ecological impacts resulting from these works would be negligible. Construction of the proposed residential development could, however, lead to potential indirect impacts to surrounding natural habitats, including Clear Water Bay Country Park, which falls within the 500m Assessment Area of the proposed development site.

7.3.3 The terrestrial ecological impact assessment originally included a fourth Assessment Area centred on the Tiu Keng Leng Service Reservoir. A mid-ventilation shaft for the Western Coast Road Tunnel was originally proposed at this location. The arrangement of the ventilation shaft outlet would have included extensive slope works that would have directly impacted some areas of plantation and more natural shrubland habitats. However, the mid-ventilation shaft has subsequently been relocated based on the findings of the air quality assessment, and the shaft outlet is now to be constructed on newly reclaimed land in the E-WCR Assessment Area (refer to Figure 2.26 for proposed layout). No ecological impacts are therefore expected around the Tiu Keng Leng Service Reservoir, and no further assessment of ecological impacts in this area considered necessary.

Literature Review

7.3.4 Terrestrial ecological assessment for this Project was undertaken with reference to standard ecological references (e.g., Carey et al., 2001; Karsen et al., 1998; Bascome et al., 1999; Wilson 2003). Furthermore, reference was made to previous impact assessment studies covering all or part of the Assessment Areas. These included:

· Feasibility Study for Intensification and Extension of Tseung Kwan O New Town Final EIA Study (TKO Extension EIA Report)

· Feasibility Study on the Alternative Alignment for the Western Coast Road, Tseung Kwan O. (Western Coast Road EIA Report)

· Tseung Kwan O Development Phase III Road P2 connecting Town Centre and Western Coast Road Final EIA Report (Road P2 EIA Report)

· Feasibility Study for Development at Cha Kwo Ling Kaolin Mine Site: Additional TIA and Updating of Study Reports: Final Environmental Impact Assessment Report Proposed Development (Cha Kwo Ling EIA Report)

Terrestrial Ecology Survey Methodology

7.3.5 Initial scoping surveys of each Assessment Area were conducted in the dry season (February 2004). As required by the Study Brief (Study Brief No. ESB-111/2004), detailed ecological surveys of the three Assessment Areas were conducted over a period of six months in the wet season (from May 2004-October 2004) within 500m of the proposed works areas. The surveys comprised the following:

Habitat/Vegetation Surveys

7.3.6 Habitat surveys were undertaken to determine the types, size and locations of habitats in the Assessment Areas. The surveys were conducted via a desktop review of aerial photographs, existing habitat maps and other relevant maps/plans followed by site visits to verify the results of the review.

7.3.7 Vegetation surveys were conducted to record species present and relative abundance of plant species in different habitats within the Assessment Areas.

7.3.8 Habitat/Vegetation surveys of the Assessment Areas were conducted in June, August and October 2004.

Avifauna Surveys

7.3.9 Avifaunal surveys of each Assessment Area were conducted, with species present and relative abundance of species in different habitat types recorded. Any notable behaviour (e.g., breeding, roosting, feeding, activities) was recorded. Avifaunal surveys were conducted on a monthly basis from May-October 2004. Additional night surveys of each Assessment Area were conducted in July and September 2004 to record any nocturnal avifauna.

Herpetofauna & Mammal Surveys

7.3.10 Herpetofauna/mammal surveys of each Assessment Area were conducted, with species present and relative abundance of species recorded by direct observation, searching potential microhabitats, listening for calling animals, and searching for signs of animal activity (e.g., burrows, scats etc.). The herpetofauna/mammal surveys were conducted on three occasions at each Assessment Area (in June, August and October 2004), with surveys conducted during both the day and night.

Terrestrial Insect Surveys

7.3.11 Species present and relative species abundance of adult butterflies and odonates were recorded by direct observation in each Assessment Area. Surveys were conducted three times in the wet season (June, August and October, 2004).

Freshwater Community Surveys

7.3.12 Surveys of fish and freshwater macroinvertebrate populations in freshwater habitats within each Assessment Area were conducted by direct observation, kick-sampling, netting and setting non-lethal, baited traps. Surveys of freshwater habitats were undertaken at E-WCR Assessment Area in July, August and September 2004, W-WCR Assessment Area in July 2004, and PSK Assessment Area in July and September 2004.

Impact Assessment Methodology

7.3.13 Potential ecological impacts arising from the Project were assessed following EIAO-TM Annex 16 guidelines, with evaluation based on criteria in EIAO-TM Annex 8.

7.4 Description of the Environment

Areas of Conservation Interest

7.4.1 Clear Water Bay Country Park covers much of the upland areas within the Clear Water Bay Peninsula, including the ridge of hills that lie approximately 400m to the east and south east of the proposed PSK development site. The Country Park is dominated by shrubland habitats in upland areas, but also includes some patches of woodland. The approximate boundary of Clear Water Bay Country Park is illustrated in Figure 7.1c.

7.4.2 Under the Approved Clearwater Bay North Development Permission Area Plan No. DPA/SK-CWBN/2, some areas to the northeast of the proposed PSK development site are zoned ‘Conservation Area’. The planning intention of these areas is to safeguard the existing natural character and intrinsic landscape quality, and to protect sensitive natural systems in and adjoining Country Park areas. Areas included under the CA zoning incorporate relatively undisturbed fung shui woodland habitats at Mang Kung Uk, located approximately 220m to the northeast of the proposed PSK development site. The location of CA in the PSK Assessment Area is shown in Figure 7.1c

7.4.3 There are no areas of recognised conservation interest (such as Country Parks, Sites of Special Scientific Interest, Coastal Protection Areas or Conservation Areas) in the vicinity of the E-WCR or W-WCR Assessment Areas.

Summary of Literature Review

Habitats and Vegetation

7.4.4 The Road P2 EIA Report presents the results of habitat and vegetation surveys that cover much of the E-WCR Assessment Area. The surveys were conducted in 1998/99, and identified several habitat types including; grassland/shrubland mosaic, woodland, disturbed areas, and stream habitats. Previous surveys of the E-WCR Assessment Area recorded two plant species of conservation interest within grassland/shrubland mosaic habitat: the common but locally protected species Chinese New Year Flower (Enkianthus quinqueflorus), and Yellow-eye Grass (Xyris indica), which has a restricted distribution in Hong Kong.

7.4.5 Ecological surveys of part of the W-WCR Assessment Area were conducted in 1999 for the Cha Kwo Ling EIA Report. Several habitat types were identified including shrubland, grassland, woodland, plantation and disturbed/urbanised areas. One plant species of conservation interest, the Ladies Tresses Orchid (Spiranthes sinensis), was recorded from disturbed grassland habitat to the west of the abandoned quarry during these surveys. Spiranthes sinensis is a locally common orchid species, found growing in a variety of habitat types including grassland and boggy areas. All orchid species are protected in Hong Kong.

7.4.6 Ecological surveys of part of the PSK Assessment Area were conducted in 1999 for the TKO Extension EIA Report. Several habitat types were identified including shrubland/grassland, woodland, abandoned agricultural land, streams and disturbed/urbanised areas. Only one plant species of conservation interest, the 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 Category III protected species under Chinese Legislation, and is listed as Vulnerable in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species (IUCN, 2003).

Wildlife

Avifauna

7.4.7 Avifauna records from all three Assessment Areas presented in previous EIA Reports (as listed in section 7.3.4) are dominated by common and widespread species, including species often recorded from urban areas and other disturbed habitats (e.g., starlings, bulbuls and sparrows). A number of avifaunal species considered of conservation interest have been recorded from one or more of the three Assessment Areas, as described in the following paragraphs.

7.4.8 Black Kites (Milvus lineatus) have previously been reported from all three Assessment Areas. Although locally very common, Kites are considered of conservation interest 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 (Carey et al., 2001). They are also a Category II protected species under Mainland Chinese Legislation. Of particular interest is a record of a Black (“Black-eared”) Kite nest in woodland habitat approximately 500m southwest of the proposed WCR Tunnel Portal in 1997 (Western Coast Road EIA Report).

7.4.9 The Road P2 EIA Report noted a single adult White-bellied Sea-eagle (Haliaeetus leucogaster) was recorded from the E-WCR Assessment Area during 1998/99 surveys. 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 Category I protected species under Mainland Chinese Legislation.

7.4.10 A single Eurasian Eagle Owl (Bubo bubo) was observed roosting on a secluded cliff ledge during 1998/99 Surveys of the E-WCR Assessment Area (Road P2 EIA Report). This resident species is scarce, but has a widespread distribution in Hong Kong, with records from around 12 locations (Carey et al., 2001). This species is considered of regional concern by Fellowes et al. (2002) due to a possibly restricted and declining regional population. They are also a Category II protected species under Mainland Chinese Legislation.

7.4.11 A Buzzard (Buteo buteo) was reported from the W-WCR Assessment Area in the Cha Kwo Ling EIA Report. Buzzards are relatively common and widespread winter visitors in Hong Kong, and are not considered of conservation interest by Fellowes et al. (2002). Buzzards are however a Category II protected species in Mainland China.

7.4.12 Records of single (Black-crowned) Night Heron (Nycticorax nycticorax) and Chinese Pond Heron (Ardeola bacchus) were made from woodland habitats close to stream courses in the PSK Assessment Area during surveys conducted in 1999 (TKO Extension EIA Report). Night Heron are considered of local conservation interest due to the limited number of sites in Hong Kong where the species are known to breed (Fellowes et al., 2002). As the single Night Heron recorded from the PSK Assessment Area was likely to be a non-breeding migrant (Carey et al., 2001), this record is not considered of particular conservation significance. Chinese Pond Heron are considered of conservation importance due to locally declining populations. Despite the reduced numbers of this species in Hong Kong, the local population is still large enough to be of regional significance (Carey et al., 2001).

7.4.13 A pair of Crested Goshawk (Accipiter trivirgatus) was recorded from woodland habitat on two occasions during 1999 surveys of the PSK Assessment Area (TKO Extension EIA Report). Although a scarce resident in Hong Kong, local populations of this species appear to have increased in recent years (Carey et al., 2001), and it is not considered of conservation concern by Fellowes et al. (2002). The Goshawk is nevertheless listed as a Class II Protected Species in China.

7.4.14 A record of Northern Sparrowhawk (Accipiter nisus) on one date in April 1999 from the PSK Assessment Area is reported in the TKO Extension EIA Report. This observation should be regarded as doubtful; Carey et al. (2001) list only four confirmed records of this species during April from the whole of Hong Kong over the past 40 years. It is more probable that the record from PSK may refer to the more common and widespread Besra (Accipiter virgatus), which is similar in appearance to the Sparrowhawk. Both Besra and Northern Sparrowhawk are listed as Category II protected species under mainland Chinese Legislation.

7.4.15 Previous records of Greater Coucal (Centropus sinensis) are reported from the W-WCR and PSK Assessment Areas in the Cha Kwo Ling EIA Report and TKO Extension EIA Report respectively. This species is a common and widespread resident in Hong Kong, and is not considered of conservation interest by Fellowes et al. (2002). Greater Coucal are however a Category II protected species in Mainland China, where they are considered to be threatened by over-hunting (Wang 1998).

Herpetofauna and Mammals

7.4.16 All herpetofaunal and mammal species recorded from the three Assessment Areas during previous surveys (as reported in EIA studies listed in Section 7.3.4) are common and widespread in Hong Kong, and none of the recorded species are considered of conservation interest by Fellowes et al. (2002).

Terrestrial Insects

7.4.17 Previous surveys of butterflies and dragonflies (as reported in EIA studies listed in Section 7.3.4) reveal that diversity of these faunal groups is relatively low in all three Assessment Areas, and the majority of recorded species are common and widespread in Hong Kong. No species regarded as being of conservation interest by Fellowes et al. (2002) have been reported from the Assessment Areas in previous EIA Reports

Freshwater Communities

7.4.18 No detailed surveys of streams or other freshwater habitats in the three Assessment Areas appear to have been conducted during previous EIA Studies in the TKO Area.

Summary of Current Surveys

Habitats and Vegetation

7.4.19 Recent surveys recorded a total of 11 habitat types within the three Assessment Areas, comprising: Secondary Woodland, Mixed Woodland, Disturbed Woodland, Grassland/Shrubland, Disturbed Grassland, Plantation, Orchard, Village/Orchard, Streams, Wasteland/Developed Area and Abandoned Agriculture. The results of habitat surveys conducted for this Study were largely consistent with those reported during previous surveys of the Assessment Areas (Sections 7.4.4-7.4.6 refer).

7.4.20 Habitat maps of the Assessment Areas are presented in Figures 7.1a-7.1c. Representative photographs of habitats are given in Appendix 7.1. Photographs of plant species of conservation interest are given in Appendix 7.2. Vegetation recorded in the Assessment Areas is listed in Appendix 7.3. Further description of habitat types recorded in the Assessment Areas is given in the following sections.

Secondary Woodland

7.4.21 Relatively undisturbed and natural secondary woodland habitat was recorded in the PSK Assessment Area. Extensive areas of secondary woodland were present on the lower slopes of the ridge of hills to the east and south east of the proposed PSK Development Site, and also on hillsides adjacent to village areas to the north of the Development Site. Plant species diversity within the woodland was moderate, with commonly recorded species including Machilus spp., Cinnamomum spp., Sterculia lanceolata, Viburnum odoratissimum and Mallotus paniculatus.

7.4.22 Two tree species of conservation interest were recorded from secondary woodland habitat within the PSK Assessment Area: Incense Tree (Aquilaria sinensis) and Hairy-fruited Ormosia (Ormosia pachycarpa, Figure 7.1c refers). As noted in section 7.4.6, A. sinensis is common in Hong Kong but endemic to China, where it is considered threatened by habitat loss. It is a Category III protected species under Chinese Legislation, and is listed as Vulnerable in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species (IUCN, 2003). Ormosia pachycarpa has a restricted distribution in Hong Kong (Xing et al., 2001), and is considered to be endangered in China (Hu et al., 2003).

Mixed Woodland

7.4.23 Several areas of mixed woodland habitat were recorded from the E-WCR Assessment Area, mostly to the southwest of the proposed WCR Tunnel Portal. This habitat type was dominated by common and widespread native pioneer tree species (e.g., Macaranga tanarius, Mallotus paniculatus, Sapium discolor, Ficus hispida and Schefflera heptaphylla). The mixed woodland habitat appeared to have recently developed from grassland/shrubland that dominates much of the E-WCR Assessment Area, and as such it was found to be less mature and diverse than secondary woodland habitat recorded from the PSK Assessment Area. Additionally, mixed woodland in the E-WCR Assessment Area was found to be contiguous with areas of village/orchard habitat, and was found to support numerous fruit trees (e.g., Musa paradisiaca, Euphoria longan) and amenity plants (e.g., Ficus elastica) in addition to native plant species. No plant species of conservation interest were recorded from this habitat type.

Disturbed Woodland

7.4.24 Disturbed woodland habitat was recorded from the W-WCR Assessment Area, covering much of the hillside between Kwong Tin Estate and Lei Yue Mun Road. The habitat appeared to have established on abandoned village housing and agricultural plots, and as such was dominated by native and exotic pioneer tree species (e.g., Macaranga tanarius, Leucaena leucocephala) and fruit trees (especially Musa paradisiaca). Species diversity in this habitat type was relatively low, and no plant species of conservation interest were recorded from areas of disturbed woodland.

Grassland/Shrubland Mosaic

7.4.25 Grassland/shrubland habitat dominated much of the E-WCR and PSK Assessment Areas, but was less common in the W-WCR Assessment Area where it was largely restricted to hillsides east of the proposed WCR Tunnel Portal. Species recorded from this habitat type were similar in all three Assessment Areas, and were dominated by a mixture of common and widespread grasses & bamboos (e.g., Neyraudia reynaudiana), ferns (e.g., Dicranopteris pedata) and shrubs (e.g., Rhodomyrtus tomentosa, Baeckea frutescens, Rhaphiolepis indica).

7.4.26 In the E-WCR Assessment Area, vegetative cover within grassland/shrubland habitat was taller and denser within stream valleys and closer to the coast, with young pioneer trees (e.g., Macaranga tanarius, Litsea glutinosa, Schefflera heptaphylla) relatively common in these areas. Immediately behind the coastline, grassland/shrubland habitat was found to be contiguous with a thin strip of backshore vegetation. Typical species recorded in these areas included Scaevola sericea, Hibiscus tiliaceus, Atalantia buxifolia and Scolopia chinensis.

7.4.27 Yellow-eyed Grass (Xyris indica) was recorded from the E-WCR Assessment Area during surveys conducted for the Road P2 EIA Report, and was again recorded during surveys conducted for this Study. Although the grass has a restricted distribution in Hong Kong, it is relatively common in wetlands, streamsides and other damp areas, and is therefore not considered to be of particular conservation interest.

7.4.28 One shrub species (Small Persimmon, Diospyros vaccinioides) reported from the E-WCR Assessment Area in the Road P2 EIA Report was found to be relatively common throughout areas of grassland/shrubland mosaic during recent field surveys of the E-WCR Assessment Area. Although locally common, this species is listed as critically endangered in the IUCN Red Data List (IUCN, 2003).

7.4.29 No record of the protected Chinese New Year Flower (Enkianthus quinqueflorus), which was reported from grassland/shrubland habitat in the Road P2 EIA Report, was made from any of the three Assessment Areas during recent surveys.

7.4.30 In the PSK Assessment Area, one species of conservation interest (the locally common but protected Bamboo Orchid, Arundina chinensis) was recorded from grassland/shrubland habitat during recent surveys. Large numbers of plants were recorded to the west of the proposed Development Area 78 site.

Village/Orchard & Orchard

7.4.31 Patches of village/orchard habitat were recorded below the Chinese Permanent Cemetery in the E-WCR Assessment Area, and also to the northeast of the PSK Assessment Area. This habitat type was characterised by village housing interspersed with areas of vegetation including fruit trees (e.g., Dimocarpus longan, Musa paradisiaca) and common native plant species (e.g., Celtis sinensis, Macaranga tanarius, Alocasia macrorrhiza and Mallotus paniculatus). Fewer houses and more abundant vegetation were recorded from this habitat type in the E-WCR Assessment Area than in the PSK Assessment Area. No plant species of conservation interest were recorded from village/orchard habitat in either the E-WCR or PSK Assessment Areas.

7.4.32 In addition to village/orchard habitat, a small banana grove (Musa paradisiaca) was recorded from the E-WCR Assessment Area. This habitat (classified as orchard on Figure 7.1a) had very low plant diversity, and supported no plant species of conservation interest.

Plantation

7.4.33 Plantation habitat generally refers to areas of roadside tree planting and planting on recently engineered slopes that were encountered in all three Assessment Areas. Additionally, recently planted areas of landfill to the southwest of the proposed PSK Development Site were included under this habitat category. Plantation habitats were dominated by exotic tree species commonly used for roadside planting in Hong Kong, including Acacia confusa, Eucalyptus spp., Casuarina equisetifolia and Acacia auriculiformis. Occasional native pioneer tree species such as Macaranga tanarius and Schefflera heptaphylla were also recorded from this habitat type. No plant species of conservation interest were recorded from plantation habitats.

Wasteland/Developed Areas & Disturbed Grassland

7.4.34 Areas of highly disturbed habitat were recorded from all three Assessment Areas, including Tseung Kwan O Chinese Permanent Cemetery, roads, engineered slopes, high density urban areas, abandoned quarries, recently reclaimed land, wasteland, disturbed grassland and industrial/commercial developments. Vegetation communities in highly disturbed habitats were generally low in diversity and were dominated by common and widespread native and exotic species. Only one species of conservation interest, the locally common but protected Bamboo Orchid (A.chinensis) was recorded from this habitat type. Occasional records of this species were made from steep and rocky cut slopes of the abandoned quarry within the PSK Assessment Area (Figure 7.1c refers).

7.4.35 One plant species of conservation interest, the protected Ladies Tresses Orchid (Spiranthes sinensis), has previously been recorded from disturbed grassland habitat in the W-WCR Assessment Area (Cha Kwo Ling EIA Report). No record of this species was made during recent surveys of the W-WCR Assessment Area.

7.4.36 The proposed Cha Kwo Ling Kaolin Mine Site Development in the W-WCR Assessment Area is shown on Figure 7.1b. At the time of writing, this site supports a variety of habitat types including semi-natural areas of shrubland, woodland and grassland. However, as the proposed development of this site is scheduled to commence prior to WCR construction, the whole of this site is categorised as developed area habitat for the purposes of this Assessment.

Streams

7.4.37 Several streams were recorded in each of the three Assessment Areas during recent habitat surveys, although the majority were very small in size and had a seasonal flow regime. As such, these streams are unlikely to form an important habitat for aquatic communities. Description of stream habitats in the following sections is therefore limited to larger stream-courses identified in the Assessment Areas that are relatively close to the proposed works areas (and would therefore be potentially directly or indirectly impacted by the proposed works).

7.4.38 In the E-WCR Assessment Area, one small stream was identified close to the proposed eastern WCR Portal (hereafter referred to as the E-WCR Stream). The upper reaches of the stream flow through the Chinese Permanent Cemetery, where the stream has been substantially modified and routed through a series of large concrete ponds. The lower reaches of the stream (below the Cemetery) are more natural, being approximately 1-2m wide with a pronounced riffle/pool sequence, and discharge into a small sandy bay along the coast. Riparian vegetation along the southern bank was found to be well established, and was largely contiguous with adjacent areas of village/orchard. An access road had recently been constructed along the northern bank. Water quality appeared reasonable, with no obvious signs of gross pollution, although periodic organic pollution episodes were observed in June 2004.

7.4.39 A small stream runs through the disturbed woodland between Kwong Tin Estate and Lei Yue Mun Road (hereafter referred to as the W-WCR Stream). The streambed is formed from bedrock and large boulders, whereas the banks are formed from various materials including natural boulders, smaller stones set in concrete, and earthen banks. Water quality appeared relatively poor, with numerous dead Gambusia affinis noted in pool sections of the stream during scoping surveys of the Stream conducted in February 2004. Because the stream is located in an urban area, it is probable that it is treated with insecticides and solvents to control mosquito larvae. Below and to the west of Lei Yue Mun Road, the stream is routed through an underground storm-water drain.

7.4.40 A moderate sized stream was recorded flowing in a north-south direction to the east of the proposed PSK Development Site (hereafter referred to as the PSK Stream). Aside from a short reach at the southern boundary of the Assessment Area that was channelised with concrete, the stream habitat was found to be largely natural, with natural banks and bed formed from cobbles and sand. The stream banks also supported extensive riparian vegetation. Water was generally slow-flowing in the stream, and in upstream areas and tributaries, appeared to be of good quality. However, much of the stream-course was found to be grossly polluted by petrochemicals and organic wastes. These pollutants originated from the many small-scale car repair workshops, waste recycling facilities and other industrial units that are located alongside the existing access road to the east of Development Area 78. As a consequence, water quality along much of the stream-course appeared very poor, and areas immediately downstream of pollution sources were devoid of aquatic life.

Abandoned Agriculture

7.4.41 Small patches of abandoned agricultural land were recorded at various locations within the PSK Assessment Area, including the area between O Mun and Wai Sum Villages, to the south of O Pui Village, and several patches in the valley to the east of the Development Area 78. Vegetation in this habitat type was dominated by low-growing herbaceous vegetation (e.g., Alocasia macrorrhiza). No plant species of conservation interest were recorded from this habitat type.

Faunua

7.4.42 Terrestrial fauna recorded from the three Assessment Areas is listed in Appendix 7.4. Photographs of some faunal species of conservation interest recorded during the surveys are presented in Appendix 7.2. The location of species of conservation interest recorded in the Assessment Areas is indicated in Figures 7.1a-7.1c (species of conservation interest widely distributed across the Assessment Areas are not shown on these Figures).

Avifauna

7.4.43 A total of 58 avifaunal species were recorded from the three Assessment Areas during recent surveys, with 45, 23 and 46 species recorded from the W-WCR, E-WCR and PSK Assessment Areas respectively. Most birds recorded were typical of the disturbed habitats that dominate much of the TKO Area. Commonly observed species included Black-necked Starling (Sturnus nigricollis), Crested Bulbul (Pycnonotus jocosus) and Tree Sparrow (Passer montanus). In total, thirteen avifaunal species of conservation interest were recorded during recent surveys of the Assessment Areas. These species are listed in Table 7.2, and described in the following sections.

7.4.44 Single Chinese Pond Herons (Ardeola bacchus) were recorded in all three Assessment Areas. Chinese Pond Heron are considered of conservation importance due to locally declining populations. Despite the reduced numbers of this species in Hong Kong, the local population is still large enough to be of regional significance (Carey et al., 2001).

7.4.45 A small flock of approximately 10 Cattle Egret (Bubulcus ibis) were recorded flying over Junk Bay close to the E-WCR Assessment Area in February 2004. It is likely these birds were on-route to landfill sites on the east side of Junk Bay, a habitat that Cattle Egret are known to exploit as a foraging ground (Carey et al., 2001). Cattle Egret are considered of conservation interest by Fellowes et al. (2002) due to the restricted number of known breeding sites in Hong Kong.

7.4.46 Records of single Pacific Reef Egret (Egretta sacra) were made on two occasions from coastal habitats in the E-WCR Assessment Area. 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 Category II protected species under Mainland Chinese Legislation.

7.4.47 Records of Black Kite (Milvus lineatus) were made from all three Assessment Areas throughout the survey period, with flocks of up to 60 birds observed soaring over the PSK Assessment Area. Although Kites were observed perching on trees/telegraph poles close to the Chinese Permanent Cemetery in the E-WCR Assessment Area, no observations of breeding activity (e.g., nesting) were made during the surveys. As noted in Section 7.4.8, Kites are considered of conservation interest 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 (Carey et al., 2001). They are also a Category II protected species under Mainland Chinese Legislation.

7.4.48 A single Besra (Accipiter virgatus) was recorded from secondary woodland in the PSK Assessment Area in September and October 2004. Besra are scarce residents in Hong Kong, where (in the breeding season) they are largely restricted to areas of closed canopy shrubland, forest and fung shui woodland (Carey et al., 2001). This species has probably been recorded from the PSK Assessment Area before (section 7.4.14 refers), and the extensive areas of woodland around PSK provide a potentially suitable breeding habitat for Besra. Although not considered of conservation concern by Fellowes et al. (2002), Besra are listed as a Category II protected species under Mainland Chinese Legislation

7.4.49 A single Buzzard (Buteo buteo) was recorded from the E-WCR Assessment Area in October 2004. As noted in section 7.4.11, Buzzards are relatively common and widespread winter visitors in Hong Kong, and are not considered of conservation interest by Fellowes et al. (2002). Buzzards are however a Category II protected species in Mainland China.

7.4.50 Crested Goshawk (Accipiter trivirgatus) were again recorded from woodland habitat in the PSK Assessment Area, with a single bird observed in September 2004. Crested Goshawk are listed as a Class II Protected Species in China.

7.4.51 A single Kestrel (Falco tinnunculus) was observed hunting over landfill areas in the PSK Assessment Area in October 2004. Kestrels are common autumn migrant and winter visitors to Hong Kong, and have been recorded from a wide variety of open habitat types in both rural and urban areas (Carey et al., 2001). Kestrels are a Category II Protected Species under Mainland Chinese Legislation.

7.4.52 Records of single Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus) were made flying over the E-WCR and PSK Assessment Areas in February and September 2004 respectively. This species is a scarce resident and winter visitor to Hong Kong, and is considered of local conservation interest due to the restricted number of known breeding sites (Fellowes et al., 2002). This species is also a Category II protected species under Mainland Chinese Legislation.

7.4.53 Greater Coucal (Centropus sinensis) are common and widespread residents in Hong Kong, but are a Category II protected species in Mainland China. Records of one or two Coucals were made from various habitats in all three Assessment Areas throughout the survey period.

7.4.54 Grey Bushchat (Saxicola caprata) are scarce winter visitors and passage migrants in Hong Kong, and are considered of local conservation concern by Fellowes et al., (2002) due to restricted and declining local records of the species. Grey Bushchats have a preference for open areas containing scrub and cultivated fields, and have been regularly observed from the eastern New Territories at sites such as Sha Lo Tung, Ho Chung, Ping Yeung and Tan Shan (Carey et al., 2001). Viney et al. (1994) note that this species often returns to favoured localities every winter. During scoping surveys of the E-WCR Assessment Area conducted in February 2004, a single male Grey Bushchat was recorded close to grassland/shrubland habitat to the east of the Chinese Permanent Cemetery. Given that this species has not been recorded from TKO during surveys conducted for previous EIA Reports, and the fact that the E-WCR Assessment Area does not support large areas of the favoured habitat type of this species, it is probable that the observation made during scoping surveys in February 2004 was an occasional record, possibly of a bird on migration.

7.4.55 A single Black-naped Oriole (Oriolus chinensis) was recorded from village/orchard habitat in the E-WCR Assessment Area in late August 2004. Orioles are scarce autumn passage migrants that breed occasionally in Hong Kong (Carey et al., 2001) This species is considered to be of local conservation concern by Fellowes et al. (2002) due to a restricted and declining population in Hong Kong. Carey et al. (2001) note that although autumn migrants of this species are still recorded in some numbers, the summer breeding and over-wintering populations in Hong Kong have declined markedly over the last 40-50 years.

7.4.56 Collared Crows (Corvus torquatus) have a restricted and declining local population (Carey et al., 2001), and are considered of local conservation concern by Fellowes et al. (2002). The Crows have been recorded from widespread coastal habitats, including occasional reports from relatively disturbed areas (Carey et al., 2001). A single Collared Crow was recorded on the fringe of grassland/shrubland habitat below the Chinese Permanent Cemetery in the E-WCR Assessment Area in August 2004.

7.4.57 Most avifaunal species of conservation interest recorded during previous surveys of the Assessment Areas (Sections 7.4.7-7.4.15 refer) were recorded again during recent surveys conducted for this EIA Report. However, two previously recorded species of conservation interest, White-Bellied Sea Eagle (Haliaeetus leucogaster) and Eurasian Eagle Owl (Bubo bubo) were not recorded during recent surveys.

7.4.58 In Hong Kong, sightings of White-Bellied Sea Eagles are mainly reported from Tolo Harbour, Port Shelter, South Hong Kong Island, Western Harbour and several Offshore Islands, with irregular and occasional reports from other areas, including areas close to Junk Bay such as Victoria Harbour (Carey et al., 2001). Junk Bay is not recognised as a key habitat for this species, and the previous single record is therefore not considered as being of particular conservation significance.

7.4.59 No records of Eurasian Eagle Owls were made during recent surveys at the previously recorded daytime roost site or other nearby areas, or during night surveys. It is recognised however that this species is reasonably cryptic. Given this and the fact that no substantial changes to habitats have occurred in the area since previous surveys were conducted, it is possible it still occurs in the E-WCR Assessment Area, and was overlooked during recent surveys.

Herpetofauna and Mammals

7.4.60 Direct observations or evidence of 7 amphibian, 9 reptile and 6 mammal species were made from the three Assessment Areas during recent surveys. Although most of the recorded species are common and widespread in Hong Kong, four are considered of conservation interest: Chinese Cobra (Naja atra), Common Rat Snake (Ptyas mucosus) Japanese Pipestrelle (Pipistrellus abramus) and Palla’s Squirrel (Callosciurus erythraeus styani).

7.4.61 Chinese Cobra and Common Rat Snakes are common and widespread species in Hong Kong, being recorded from a variety of habitat types (Karsen et al., 1998). Fellowes et al. (2002) consider the relatively large and secure population of both of these species that occur in Hong Kong of potential regional conservation concern due to the declining regional and global populations of the species. Single Chinese Cobra and Common Rat Snakes were recorded from the E-WCR Assessment Area in July and September 2004 respectively.

7.4.62 Both Japanese Pipestrelle and Palla’s Squirrel are common and widespread mammals in Hong Kong. However, both species are protected under the Wild Animals Protection Ordinance (Cap 170). Small groups of Japanese Pipestrelle were observed foraging over various habitats in the E-WCR and PSK Assessment Areas, and a single Pallas’ Squirrel was recorded from village/orchard habitat in the E-WCR Assessment Area.

Terrestrial Insects

7.4.63 Recent field surveys recorded 15 dragonfly and 44 butterfly species from the 3 Assessment Areas. The majority of recorded species are common and widespread in Hong Kong, and none are considered of particular conservation interest.

Freshwater Communities

7.4.64 Freshwater communities in the three streams described in sections 7.4.37-7.4.40 tended to be species poor because of the small size of the streams and various anthropogenic impacts (e.g., fragmentation, organic/inorganic pollution). A description of macroinvertebrate and fish communities recorded from the streams is given in the following sections.

Macroinvertebrate Communities

7.4.65 Macroinvertebrate communities in the E-WCR Stream were dominated by freshwater shrimps (Cardinia sp.) and freshwater/estuarine crabs (Eriocheir sinensis). Other commonly recorded taxa included Baetis sp. and Liebebiella sp. mayfly nymphs. Overall, species diversity was relatively low, and no species of recognised conservation interest were recorded from the stream.

7.4.66 Macroinvertebrates communities recorded from the W-WCR Stream were found to be species poor. Dominant species recorded included Chironomid larvae, especially Chironomus sp., indicating some degree of organic pollution. Nevertheless, some species generally regarded as intolerant of organic pollution (e.g., psephenid and dryopid larvae) were also recorded from the stream.

7.4.67 The upper reaches and tributaries of the PSK Stream supported a relatively diverse macroinvertebrate community that was dominated by caridina shrimps. The stream also supported some species that are indicators of good water quality (e.g., heptageniid mayfly nymphs). One species of conservation interest, the freshwater crab Cryptopotamon anacoluthon was recorded from upstream sections of the stream. This species is considered of potential global conservation concern by Fellowes et al. (2002), as although fairly common and widespread in local unpolluted streams, it has not been recorded outside of Hong Kong to date. Cryptopotamon anacoluthon is most numerous in upland habitats with clear, fast-flowing water and accumulations of leaf-litter, upon which the crabs feed (Dudgeon, 1999). Brooding females retreat into burrows or hide under stones during the breeding season (April-June). Like most true freshwater crabs, C .anacoluthon lay large yolky eggs which hatch as miniature, fully formed crabs (the planktonic larval stages common in marine crabs are suppressed). As noted in section 7.4.40, much of the PSK stream-course was found to be grossly polluted by petrochemicals and organic wastes, and areas immediately downstream of pollution sources were devoid of aquatic life.

Fish Communities

7.4.68 The E-WCR Stream is relatively small, with a steep gradient, and was fragmented by flood retention ponds upstream within the Chinese Permanent Cemetery, and a steep waterfall downstream where the stream flows into the sea. As such, fish communities within the stream were found to be limited to just two species: Philippine Neon Goby (Stiphodon atropurpureus), and Japanese Eel (Anguilla japonica). Both of these species are capable of traversing waterfalls and other obstacles, with Japanese Eel known to crawl across land from one site to another (Man & Hodgkiss, 1981) and Stiphodon sp. are known to undertake long and often difficult migrations up and down streams (Martin, 1999). Whereas Japanese Eel is common and widespread in Hong Kong, the Philippine Neon Goby has been recorded from just 8 sites, mostly on Lantau Island and the North-east New Territories (Chan, 2001, Lee et al., 2004), and is considered of global conservation concern by Fellowes et al. (2002) due to restricted and declining local, regional and global populations.

7.4.69 In Hong Kong, S. atropurpureus generally occurs in the lower to middle section of small to medium-sized streams close to the sea. Such streams usually have a gentle gradient with moderate to fast current, have good water quality and rocky/cobble substratum. It is diurnal and spends most of its time grazing on bottom substrates and defending territories. The bottom-dwelling S. atropurpureus is a strong swimmer and has been found above waterfalls, it however rarely spends time in deep pools (Chan, Pers. Comm.). Little is known about the breeding ecology of stiphodon gobies; but available records appear to show most species are diadromous. Adults live and breed (in the wet season) in pure freshwater sections of coastal streams, after which the larvae drift downstream into the sea. Apparently larvae remain close to the breeding streams and feed around their “home” estuaries (Ryan, 1986). Once reaching juvenile stage they travel upstream into pure freshwater section (Ryan, 1986; Watson, 1996; Parenti and Thomas, 1998; Martin, 1999). Martin (1999) described post-larval Indonesian S. semoni form large aggregations (thousands of individuals) for upstream migration.

7.4.70 Only two common, widespread and exotic fish species were recorded from the W-WCR Stream. Large mixed shoals of Mosquito Fish (Gambusia affinis) and Guppies (Poecilia reticulata) were recorded from pools and other slow-flowing sections of the stream.

7.4.71 Only one fish species, Flat-headed Loach (Oreonectes platycephalus) was recorded from the upper reaches of PSK Stream. Although common in Hong Kong, this fish species is generally confined to the upper reaches of streams, where it is often the only species present (Dudgeon, 2003).

7.5 Ecological Value

7.5.1 In accordance with EIAO-TM Annex 8 criteria, the ecological importance of recorded habitats has been evaluated in Tables 7.1a-7.1f below.

Table 7.1a Ecological Value of Secondary Woodland and Mixed Woodland in the Assessment Areas

Criteria	Secondary Woodland	Mixed Woodland
Naturalness	Habitat is largely natural and undisturbed, although secondary in nature.	Habitat is largely natural, although fruit trees/ amenity plants were recorded from the woodland.
Size	Moderate.	Small-moderate.
Diversity	Habitat supported moderately diverse community.	Habitat supported low-moderate diverse community.
Rarity	Incense Tree (Aquilaria sinensis), Ormosia (Ormosia pachycarpa), Besra (Accipiter virgatus), Crested Goshawk (Accipiter trivirgatus) and Greater Coucal (Centropus sinensis) recorded from this habitat type.	Greater Coucal (Centropus sinensis) recorded from this habitat type.
Re-creatability	Habitat can be recreated, but would take several decades to mature.	Habitat can be recreated, but would take several decades to mature.
Fragmentation	The habitat is not fragmented.	Woodland formed part of a patchwork of habitat types within the E-WCR Assessment Area.
Ecological linkage	No significant records.	No significant records.
Potential value	Moderate.	Moderate.
Nursery ground	No significant records.	No significant records during recent surveys.
Age	The woodland is at least 30-40 years old.	The woodland is probably several decades old.
Abundance/Richness of Wildlife	Moderate-high.	Low-moderate.
Ecological value	Moderate-high.	Low-moderate.

Table 7.1b Ecological Value of Disturbed Woodland and Grassland/Shrubland in the Assessment Areas

Criteria	Disturbed Woodland	Grassland/Shrubland
Naturalness	Habitat established on recently abandoned village and abandoned agricultural land.	Habitat is largely natural, although maintained by hill-fires.
Size	Small-moderate.	Habitat covers large areas of the E-WCR and PSK Assessment Areas.
Diversity	Low.	Low-moderate.
Rarity	Greater Coucal (Centropus sinensis) recorded from this habitat type.	Small Persimmon (Diospyros vaccinioides), Bamboo Orchid (Arundina chinensis), Buzzard (Buteo buteo), and Common Rat Snake (Ptyas mucosus) recorded from this habitat type. Eurasian Eagle Owl (Bubo bobo) previously recorded from this habitat type, although no record made was made during recent surveys.
Re-creatability	Moderate-high, although habitat would take 10-20 years to mature.	Moderate.
Fragmentation	Habitat is surrounded on all sides by high-density urban development.	Habitat is not fragmented.
Ecological linkage	No significant records.	In PSK Assessment Area, habitat is contiguous with areas of moderate-high ecological value secondary woodland.
Potential value	Low-moderate.	Moderate.
Nursery ground	No significant records.	No significant records.
Age	Habitat is probably 10-20 years old.	N/a.
Abundance/Richness of Wildlife	Low.	Low-moderate.
Ecological value	Low.	Low-moderate.

Table 7.1c Ecological Value of Disturbed Grassland and Plantation in the Assessment Areas

Criteria	Disturbed Grassland	Plantation
Naturalness	Low.	Low.
Size	Small.	Small-moderate.
Diversity	Very Low.	Low.
Rarity	No significant records.	Chinese Pond Heron (Ardeola bacchus) recorded from plantation habitat in PSK Assessment Area.
Re-creatability	High.	High.
Fragmentation	N/a	N/a.
Ecological linkage	The habitat is not structurally or functionally linked to any high ecological value habitats.	The habitat is not structurally or functionally linked to any high ecological value habitats.
Potential value	Low.	Low-moderate.
Nursery ground	No significant records.	No significant records.
Age	N/a.	Habitat ranges from approximately 10-30 years in age.
Abundance/Richness of Wildlife	Very Low	Low.
Ecological value	Very Low.	Low.

Table 7.1d Ecological Value of Orchard and Village/Orchard in the Assessment Areas

Criteria	Orchard	Village/Orchard
Naturalness	Low.	Low-moderate.
Size	Small.	Small-moderate.
Diversity	Very Low	Low-moderate.
Rarity	No significant records	Black-naped Oriole (Oriolus chinensis), Palla’s Squirrel (Callosciurus erythraeus styani), Japanese Pipestrelle (Pipistrellus abramus) and Greater Coucal (Centropus sinensis) recorded from this habitat type.
Re-creatability	High.	High
Fragmentation	N/a	Moderate.
Ecological linkage	The habitat is not structurally or functionally linked to any high ecological value habitats.	The habitat is not structurally or functionally linked to any high ecological value habitats.
Potential value	Low.	Low.
Nursery ground	No significant records.	No significant records.
Age	Probably 10-20 years.	N/a.
Abundance/Richness of Wildlife	Very low.	Low.
Ecological value	Low.	Low.

Table 7.1e Ecological Value of Streams in the Assessment Areas

Criteria	Streams
Naturalness	All three streams surveyed had been affected by pollution and/or fragmentation.
Size	E-WCR & W-WCR Streams: Small (1-2m in width) PSK Stream: Moderate (2-4m in width)
Diversity	Low-moderate.
Rarity	Freshwater Crab (Cryptopotamon anacoluthon) recorded from upper PSK Stream. Philippine Neon Goby (Stiphodon atropurpureus) recorded from E-WCR Stream.
Re-creatability	Low-moderate.
Fragmentation	High.
Ecological linkage	The habitats are not structurally or functionally linked to any high ecological value habitats.
Potential value	Potential value of PSK Stream could be improved significantly if pollution is reduced.
Nursery ground	No significant records.
Age	N/a.
Abundance/Richness of Wildlife	Low-moderate.
Ecological value	E-WCR Stream: Moderate. W-WCR Stream: Very Low. PSK Stream: Moderate (Upper Stream). Very Low (Middle/Lower Stream).

Table 7.1f Ecological Value of Abandoned Agriculture and Wasteland/Developed Areas in the Assessment Areas

Criteria	Abandoned Agriculture	Wasteland/Developed Areas
Naturalness	Low-moderate.	Man-made habitats.
Size	Small.	Wasteland/developed areas cover large parts of all three assessment areas.
Diversity	Low-moderate.	Low.
Rarity	No significant records.	Bamboo Orchid (Arundina chinensis), Grey Bushchat (Saxicola caprata), Collared Crow (Corvus torquatus), Japanese Pipestrelle (Pipistrellus abramus) and Chinese Cobra (Naja atra) recorded from these habitat types.
Re-creatability	Habitat is easily recreated on suitable low-lying areas.	N/a.
Fragmentation	Low.	N/a.
Ecological linkage	In PSK Assessment Area, habitat is contiguous with areas of moderate-high ecological value secondary woodland.	The habitats are not structurally or functionally linked to any high ecological value habitats.
Potential value	Low-moderate.	N/a.
Nursery ground	No significant records.	No significant records.
Age	Probably abandoned for over 10 years.	N/a.
Abundance/Richness of Wildlife	Low-moderate.	Very low.
Ecological value	Low-moderate.	Very Low.

7.5.2 The majority of habitat types recorded in the Assessment Areas were considered to be of relatively low ecological value (i.e., very low to low-moderate value) due to their disturbed nature and low diversity of flora/fauna. The one habitat considered to be of moderate-high value was secondary woodland in the PSK Assessment Area, much of which was largely undisturbed, relatively mature, and supported a moderately diverse community including woodland specialist fauna and several plant and animal species of conservation interest.

7.5.3 Streams in the Assessment Areas were generally small, disturbed and often polluted. However, the E-WCR Stream was considered of moderate value due to presence of the fish species of conservation interest (Philippine Neon Goby). Additionally, the upper reaches and tributaries of the PSK Stream were considered of moderate value due to their undisturbed nature and the presence of an invertebrate species of conservation interest (Freshwater Crab).

7.5.4 With reference to EIAO-TM Annex 8 criteria, species of conservation interest recorded in the Assessment Areas are evaluated in Table 7.2 below.

Table 7.2 Species of Conservation Interest Recorded in the Assessment Areas

Common Name	Scientific Name	Status*	Location			Protection Status, Distribution, Rarity and Other Notes**
Common Name	Scientific Name	Status*	E-WCR	W-WCR	PSK	Protection Status, Distribution, Rarity and Other Notes**
*Flora*
Incense Tree	Aquilaria sinensis	-			ü	Locally common, Listed as vulnerable under the IUCN Red Data List.
Hairy-fruited Ormosia	Ormosia pachycarpa	-			ü	Locally restricted population. Endangered in China.
Bamboo Orchid	Arundina chinensis	-			ü	Locally common. Protected under HK Legislation.
Small Persimmon	Diospyros vaccinioides	-	ü			Locally common. Listed as critically endangered under IUCN red data list.

*Fauna*
Avifauna
Chinese Pond Heron	Ardeola bacchus	PRC	ü	ü	ü	Regionally important but declining local population.
Cattle Egret	Bubulcus ibis	(LC)	ü			Restricted number of known breeding sites in Hong Kong.
Pacific Reef Egret	Egretta sacra	(LC)	ü			Restricted number of known breeding sites in Hong Kong. Category II protected species in the PRC.
Black Kite	Milvus migrans	(RC)	ü	ü	ü	Breeding population in Hong Kong of regional significance. Category II protected species in the PRC.
Besra	Accipiter virgatus	-			ü	Category II protected species in the PRC.
Buzzard	Buteo buteo	-	ü			Category II protected species in the PRC.
Crested Goshawk	Accipiter trivirgatus	-			ü	Category II protected species in the PRC.
Kestrel	Falco tinnunculus	-			ü	Category II protected species in the PRC.
Peregrine falcon	Falco peregrinus	(LC)	ü		ü	Breeding restricted locally. Category II protected species in the PRC.
Greater Coucal	Centropus sinensis	-	ü	ü	ü	Locally common. Category II protected species in the PRC.
Grey Bushchat	Saxicola ferrea	LC	ü			Locally restricted distribution.
Black-naped Oriole	Oriolus chinensis	LC	ü			Locally restricted and declining population.
Collared Crow	Corvus torquatus	LC	ü			Locally restricted and declining population.
Eurasian Eagle Owl***	Bubo bubo	RC	ü			Possible restricted and declining regional population. Category II protected species in the PRC.
Herpetofauna and Mammals
Chinese Cobra	Naja atra	PRC	ü			Locally common but declining regional and global populations.
Common Rat Snake	Ptyas mucosus	PRC	ü			Locally common but declining regional and global populations.
Japanese Pipestrelle	Pipistrellus abramus	-	ü		ü	Locally common species. Protected under HK Legislation.
Palla’s Squirrel	Callosciurus erythraeus styani	-	ü			Locally common species. Protected under HK Legislation.
Freshwater Invertebrates
Freshwater Crab	Cryptopotamon anacoluthon	PGC			ü	Locally fairly common but not as yet recorded outside of Hong Kong.
Freshwater Fish
Philippine Neon Goby	Stiphodon artopurpureus	GC	ü			Restricted and declining local, regional and global population.

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

**Information taken from various sources including Xing et al. (2001), Carey et al. (2001) and Fellowes et al. (2002).

***Not recorded during recent surveys, but may still occur in the E-WCR Assessment Area.

7.6 Identification of Environmental Impacts

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

Construction phase

Direct Impacts

7.6.2 Habitats falling within the footprint of proposed works (including roads, tunnel portals and ancillary structures) in the Assessment Areas would be directly and permanently impacted. The approximate areas of directly affected habitats are summarised in Table 7.3 below.

Table 7.3 Direct Habitat Loss Resulting From Proposed Works.

Habitat Type*	E-WCR Assessment Area	W-WCR Assessment Area	PSK Assessment Area
Disturbed Woodland	-	1.0ha	-
Grassland/ Shrubland	0.4ha	-	-
Village/Orchard	0.03ha	-	-
Disturbed Grassland	0.02ha	-	-
Plantation	-	0.7ha	-
Wasteland/ Developed Area	-	6.3ha	13ha
Total	0.45ha	8.0ha	13ha

*Aside from the habitats listed in this table, other habitats identified in the Assessment Areas (as described in sections 7.4.19-7.4.41) would not be directly impacted by the proposed works

7.6.3 Vegetation recorded in areas falling within the footprint of proposed works would be directly impacted. Species affected would include the IUCN listed Small Persimmon (Diospyros vaccinioides) in the E-WCR Assessment Area, and the locally protected Bamboo Orchid (Arundina chinensis) in the PSK Assessment Area.

Indirect Impacts

7.6.4 Indirect impacts to habitats and associated fauna adjacent to works areas could result from increased human activities/disturbance such as noise-generating construction plant. Noisy construction phase activities and general increases 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 the source of disturbance.

7.6.5 The proposed construction of the WCR has the potential to affect populations of Philippine Neon Goby (Stiphodon artopurpureus) recorded in the E-WCR Stream. Although the proposed works would not directly impact areas of the stream where adult Gobies were recorded, there would be disturbance to coastal areas close to where the E-WCR Stream discharges into Junk Bay. These impacts are of concern because juvenile Gobies are thought to utilise coastal waters close to the streams where the adults are found. During the construction phase, coastal waters would be subjected to high levels of disturbance resulting from engineering works, the loss of natural seabed and water quality impacts.

7.6.6 Disturbance to habitats adjacent to works area could result from improper storage or dumping of construction material.

7.6.7 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.

7.6.8 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

7.6.9 No direct impacts are anticipated during the operation phase of the Proposed Developments.

Indirect Impacts

7.6.10 During the operation phase, general disturbance levels in all three Assessment Areas would be increased as a result of various developments proposed under the Project. The most substantial source of disturbance would be noise from traffic on the WCR in the E-WCR Assessment Area. Potential disturbance effects may include the avoidance of areas adjacent to the road, and reductions in wildlife density close to the source(s) of disturbance.

7.6.11 During the operation phase, there would be further potential impacts to the Philippine Neon Goby population in the E-WCR Stream. Local marine habitats close to the discharge point of the stream would be permanently impacted due to reclamation works, thereby affecting potential habitats for juvenile fish. Reclamation works would also impede the passage of larvae/juveniles to and from marine habitats.

7.6.12 In the PSK Assessment Area, run-off from the Development Area 78 would be channelled into the PSK Stream during the operation phase. Run-off from the residential development could contain sediments, petrochemical residues and other substances that could cause lethal/non lethal impacts to aquatic organisms. Additionally, during periods of high rainfall, stormwater drainage could lead to elevated flow rates in the stream, leading to the ‘washing out’of aquatic plants and animals.

7.7 Evaluation of Environmental Impacts

7.7.1 Potential ecological impacts to habitats resulting from the proposed development have been evaluated, and are summarised in Tables 7.4a - 7.4f below.

Table 7.4a Overall Impact Evaluation: Secondary Woodland and Mixed Woodland

Evaluation Criteria	Secondary Woodland	Mixed Woodland
Habitat quality	Moderate-High	Low-moderate
Species	Incense Tree (Aquilaria sinensis), Ormosia (Ormosia pachycarpa), Besra (Accipiter virgatus), Crested Goshawk (Accipiter trivirgatus) and Greater Coucal (Centropus sinensis) recorded from this habitat type.	Greater Coucal (Centropus sinensis) recorded from this habitat type.
Size/Abundance	No direct impact to this habitat type.	No direct impact to this habitat type.
Duration	Indirect, construction phase disturbance would last for duration of construction phase. Indirect, operation phase disturbance would be permanent.	Indirect, construction phase disturbance would last for duration of construction phase. Indirect, operation phase disturbance would be permanent.
Reversibility	Indirect, construction phase disturbance would be temporary and reversible. Indirect, operation phase disturbance would be permanent and irreversible.	Indirect, construction phase disturbance would be temporary and reversible. Indirect, operation phase disturbance would be permanent and irreversible.
Magnitude	Low.	Low.
Overall impact conclusion	Low.	Low.

Table 7.4b Overall Impact Evaluation: Disturbed Woodland and Grassland/ Shrubland

Evaluation Criteria	Disturbed Woodland	Grassland/Shrubland
Habitat quality	Low	Low-moderate
Species	Greater Coucal (Centropus sinensis) recorded from this habitat type.	Small Persimmon (Diospyros vaccinioides), Bamboo Orchid (Arundina chinensis), Buzzard (Buteo buteo), and Common Rat Snake (Ptyas mucosus) recorded from this habitat type. Eurasian Eagle Owl (Bubo bobo) previously recorded from this habitat type, although no record made was made during recent surveys.
Size/Abundance	Direct impact to approximately 1.0ha of habitat in the W-WCR Assessment Area	Direct impact to approximately 0.4ha of habitat in the E-WCR Assessment Area
Duration	Loss of habitat within footprint of proposed development would be permanent. Indirect, construction phase disturbance would last for duration of construction phase. Indirect, operation phase disturbance would be permanent.	Loss of habitat within footprint of proposed development would be permanent. Indirect, construction phase disturbance would last for duration of construction phase. Indirect, operation phase disturbance would be permanent.
Reversibility	Loss of habitat within footprint of proposed development would be irreversible. Indirect, construction phase disturbance would be temporary and reversible. Indirect, operation phase disturbance would be permanent and irreversible.	Loss of habitat within footprint of proposed development would be irreversible. Indirect, construction phase disturbance would be temporary and reversible. Indirect, operation phase disturbance would be permanent and irreversible.
Magnitude	Low.	Low.
Overall impact conclusion	Low-moderate.	Low.

Table 7.4c Overall Impact Evaluation: Disturbed Grassland and Plantation

Evaluation Criteria	Disturbed Grassland	Plantation
Habitat quality	Very Low	Low
Species	No significant records.	Chinese Pond Heron (Ardeola bacchus) recorded from plantation habitat in PSK Assessment Area.
Size/Abundance	Direct impact to approximately 0.02ha of habitat in the E-WCR Assessment Area	Direct impact to approximately 0.7ha of habitat in the W-WCR Assessment Area
Duration	Loss of habitat within footprint of proposed development would be permanent. Indirect, construction phase disturbance would last for duration of construction phase. Indirect, operation phase disturbance would be permanent.	Loss of habitat within footprint of proposed development would be permanent. Indirect, construction phase disturbance would last for duration of construction phase. Indirect, operation phase disturbance would be permanent.
Reversibility	Loss of habitat within footprint of proposed development would be irreversible. Indirect, construction phase disturbance would be temporary and reversible. Indirect, operation phase disturbance would be permanent and irreversible.	Loss of habitat within footprint of proposed development would be irreversible. Indirect, construction phase disturbance would be temporary and reversible. Indirect, operation phase disturbance would be permanent and irreversible.
Magnitude	Very Low.	Low.
Overall impact conclusion	Negligible.	Very Low.

Table 7.4d Overall Impact Evaluation: Orchard and Village/Orchard

Evaluation Criteria	Orchard	Village/Orchard
Habitat quality	Low	Low-Moderate
Species	No significant records	Black-naped Oriole (Oriolus chinensis), Palla’s Squirrel (Callosciurus erythraeus styani), Japanese Pipestrelle (Pipistrellus abramus) and Greater Coucal (Centropus sinensis) recorded from this habitat type.
Size/Abundance	No direct impact to this habitat type.	Direct impact to approximately 0.03ha of habitat in the E-WCR Assessment Area
Duration	Indirect, construction phase disturbance would last for duration of construction phase. Indirect, operation phase disturbance would be permanent.	Loss of habitat within footprint of proposed development would be permanent. Indirect, construction phase disturbance would last for duration of construction phase. Indirect, operation phase disturbance would be permanent.
Reversibility	Indirect, construction phase disturbance would be temporary and reversible. Indirect, operation phase disturbance would be permanent and irreversible.	Loss of habitat within footprint of proposed development would be irreversible. Indirect, construction phase disturbance would be temporary and reversible. Indirect, operation phase disturbance would be permanent and irreversible.
Magnitude	Very Low.	Very Low.
Overall impact conclusion	Negligible.	Low.

Table 7.4e Overall Impact Evaluation: Streams

Evaluation Criteria	Streams
Habitat quality	E-WCR Stream: Moderate. W-WCR Stream: Very Low. PSK Stream: Moderate (Upper Stream). Very Low (Middle/Lower Stream).
Species	Freshwater Crab (Cryptopotamon anacoluthon) recorded from upper PSK Stream. Philippine Neon Goby (Stiphodon atropurpureus) recorded from E-WCR Stream.
Size/Abundance	No direct impact to stream habitats in the Assessment Areas.
Duration	Indirect, construction phase disturbance would last for duration of construction phase. Indirect, operation phase disturbance would be permanent.
Reversibility	Loss of habitat within footprint of proposed development would be irreversible. Indirect, construction phase disturbance would be temporary and reversible. Indirect, operation phase disturbance would be permanent and irreversible.
Magnitude	Low.
Overall impact conclusion	E-WCR Stream: Moderate. W-WCR Stream: Very Low. PSK Stream: Negligible (Upper Stream). Very Low (Middle/Lower Stream).

Table 7.4f Overall Impact Evaluation: Abandoned Agriculture and Wasteland/ Developed Areas

Evaluation Criteria	Abandoned Agriculture	Wasteland/Developed Areas
Habitat quality	Low-moderate	Very Low
Species	No significant records.	Bamboo Orchid (Arundina chinensis), Grey Bushchat (Saxicola caprata), Collared Crow (Corvus torquatus), Japanese Pipestrelle (Pipistrellus abramus) and Chinese Cobra (Naja atra) recorded from these habitat types.
Size/Abundance	No direct impact to this habitat type.	Direct impact to a total of approximately 19.3ha of habitat in the three Assessment Areas
Duration	Indirect, construction phase disturbance would last for duration of construction phase. Indirect, operation phase disturbance would be permanent.	Loss of habitat within footprint of proposed developments would be permanent. Indirect, construction phase disturbance would last for duration of construction phase. Indirect, operation phase disturbance would be permanent.
Reversibility	Indirect, construction phase disturbance would be temporary and reversible. Indirect, operation phase disturbance would be permanent and irreversible.	Loss of habitat within footprint of proposed developments would be irreversible. Indirect, construction phase disturbance would be temporary and reversible. Indirect, operation phase disturbance would be permanent and irreversible.
Magnitude	Very Low.	Low.
Overall impact conclusion	Very Low.	Very Low.

Construction Phase Impacts

Direct Impacts

Habitat Loss

7.7.2 Potential permanent habitat loss resulting from the proposed works would include: 1.0ha disturbed woodland, 0.4ha grassland/shrubland, 0.03ha village/orchard, 0.02ha disturbed grassland, 0.7ha plantation, and 19.3ha wasteland/developed area. In general, impacts would be limited to small areas of relatively low ecological value habitat (i.e., ranging from very low to low-moderate in value), and are therefore considered minor in scale. No direct impact to moderate value stream habitats (in the E-WCR and PSK Assessment Areas) or moderate-high ecological value secondary woodland habitats (in the PSK Assessment Area) are expected.

Vegetation

7.7.3 Individuals of two plant species of conservation interest fall within the footprint of works proposed under this Project. Small Persimmon (D. vaccinioides) were recorded within the footprint of the proposed WCR Tunnel Portal in the E-WCR Assessment Area (Figure 7.1a), and Bamboo Orchid (Arundina chinensis) were recorded within the footprint of a proposed road in the PSK Assessment Area (Figure 7.1c). The loss of a small number of individuals of these plant species would be a relatively minor impact, given that both species are locally common and widespread and are not threatened in Hong Kong. However, given the apparent globally endangered status of Small Persimmon and the legal protection afforded to the Bamboo Orchid, potential direct impacts to both of these species would require mitigation.

Indirect Impacts

Disturbance Impacts

7.7.4 Construction phase disturbance in the E-WCR Assessment Area is expected to be relatively minor in scale, as habitats recorded close to the proposed works areas are mostly of low ecological value (i.e., from very low to low-moderate ecological value). Furthermore, few of the faunal species recorded from the E-WCR Assessment Area 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. A fuller description of disturbance and other impacts to species of conservation interest recorded from the Assessment Area is presented in Table 7.5.

7.7.5 Due to the urban nature and existing high levels of disturbance in the W-WCR Assessment Area, construction phase disturbance in this Area is expected to have negligible ecological impact.

7.7.6 In the PSK Assessment Area, habitats immediately adjacent to the proposed residential development at Area 78 are mostly very low ecological value wasteland/developed areas, and no substantial construction phase disturbance impacts to these habitats are expected. Impacts to moderate-high ecological value secondary woodland in the PSK Assessment Area are expected to be minor in scale. The most substantial areas of woodland (e.g., to the north, south east and south of Area 78) are relatively distant from the proposed works areas, and impacts to these habitats would therefore be minor. Smaller patches of woodland closer to the proposed works areas are already subject to disturbance from the numerous industrial units, mechanical workshops and other developments that are located along the existing access road. Disturbance resulting from construction activities in Area 78 (which is further from the woodland habitats than existing disturbance sources) is not expected to substantially increase disturbance levels over and above existing levels. Overall, construction phase disturbance impacts in the PSK Assessment Area are expected to be minor in scale.

Impacts to Philippine Neon Goby

7.7.7 So far as is known, the Philippine Neon Goby (PNG) is a relatively rare species in Hong Kong, being largely restricted to a few streams in the Northeast New Territories and on Lantau Island. It is unlikely to occur in other streams in Junk Bay as most of the existing streams of any size in this area have already been impacted by large-scale reclamation projects, pollution and other forms of anthropogenic disturbance. Not only is the species locally rare and declining, but also it is thought to have restricted and declining regional and global populations (Fellowes et al. 2002).

7.7.8 The proposed construction of the WCR would not directly impact areas of the E-WCR Stream where adult PNG were recorded. However, there would be disturbance to coastal areas close to where the stream discharges into Junk Bay. These impacts are of concern because juvenile PNG are thought to utilise coastal waters close to the streams where the adults are found. During the construction phase, coastal waters would be subjected to high levels of disturbance resulting from engineering works, the loss of natural seabed and water quality impacts.

7.7.9 Because so little is known about behaviour and habitat requirements of juvenile PNG, the scale and nature of impacts to the population in the stream are difficult to evaluate. However, the proposed works would lead to disturbance of some areas of coastal waters that provide a potential habitat for juvenile fishes. Although disturbance to these habitats would be substantial, reclamation works in the coastal waters immediately below the E-WCR Stream (labelled as Reclamation Phase I on Figure 5.8) are scheduled to be completed within one year. Due to the limited duration of construction phase disturbance, impacts are considered moderate in scale only.

Dumping/Dust Deposition

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

Sedimentation/Water Quality Impacts

7.7.11 Construction phase sedimentation/water quality impacts to the E-WCR and W-WCR Streams are expected to be negligible. Works close to the E-WCR Stream would be confined to the very bottom of the stream-course, so there would be little scope for run-off to enter the stream. Similarly, works in the W-WCR Assessment Area would be conducted below the W-WCR Stream: any run-off from the works areas is therefore unlikely to enter the more natural sections of the stream-course. Downstream of the proposed works area (where sedimentation/pollution impacts would be expected) the stream is channelled through a storm-water drain, which is of negligible ecological value.

7.7.12 During the construction phase, site run-off from Area 78 in the PSK Assessment Area would be diverted into PSK Stream and therefore has the potential to cause sedimentation/water quality impacts. However, as noted in Section 7.4.40, the middle/lower course of the PSK Stream is already subject to high levels of pollution, and provides a poor habitat for aquatic communities. Potential sedimentation/water quality impacts to these habitats are therefore considered negligible. No site run-off would be diverted into the upper course of PSK Stream, which is less polluted and considered of moderate ecological value.

Operation Phase Impacts

Disturbance Impacts

7.7.13 Operation phase disturbance impacts in the E-WCR Assessment Area would largely be restricted to noise from the traffic on the proposed WCR. Such impacts are expected to be relatively minor in scale, as habitats recorded close to the proposed road alignment are mostly of low ecological value (i.e., from very low to low-moderate ecological value).

7.7.14 Due to the urban nature and existing high levels of disturbance in the W-WCR Assessment Area, operation phase disturbance in this Area is expected to have negligible ecological impact.

7.7.15 The main source of operation phase disturbance in the PSK Assessment Area would be traffic on the access road leading to the new residential development at Area 78. As noted in previously, habitats adjacent to the existing access road are already subject to disturbance from the numerous industrial units, mechanical workshops and other developments that are situated along the road. Traffic is not therefore expected to result in a substantial increase in disturbance levels to habitats adjacent to the road over and above existing levels. Overall, operation phase disturbance impacts in the PSK Assessment Area are expected to be minor in scale.

Impacts to Philippine Neon Goby

7.7.16 As outlined previously, construction phase activities along the coast in the E-WCR Assessment Area could have impacts on the population of Philippine Neon Gobies recorded from the E-WCR Stream. If mitigation measures were not adopted, more severe impacts would be expected during the operation phase. The proposed reclamation would inhibit the passage of juvenile PNG between the E-WCR Stream and marine habitats, and the loss of recruitment of maturing juveniles into the stream could cause the local extinction of the species in Junk Bay. Operation phase impacts are considered moderate-high in scale, and would require mitigation.

Sedimentation/Water Quality and Stormwater Drainage Impacts

7.7.17 As described in section 7.7.11, proposed developments in the E-WCR and W-WCR Assessment Areas would be situated below the E-WCR and W-WCR Streams. No substantial sedimentation/water quality impacts (or impacts resulting from stormwater drainage) are therefore expected to affect these Streams during the construction or operation phases.

7.7.18 Potential sedimentation/water quality and stormwater discharge impacts to the PSK Stream would be restricted to the very low ecological value middle and lower reaches of the stream. No impacts are expected to affect the moderate value upper stream. Overall such impacts are considered minor in scale.

Impacts to Species of Conservation Interest

7.7.19 Impacts to key species of conservation interest recorded from the Assessment Areas are described in preceding sections 7.7.2-7.7.18. A summary of potential construction and operation phase impacts to all species of conservation interest recorded from the Assessment Areas is provided in Table 7.5 below.

Species of Conservation Interest		Construction Phase Impacts		Operation Phase Impacts
Common Name	Scientific Name	Description	Evaluation	Description	Evaluation
Flora
Incense Tree	Aquilaria sinensis	Individuals of this species recorded over 400m from the nearest proposed works area, and would therefore not be impacted.	No Impact.	No impact.	No Impact.
Hairy-fruited Ormosia	Ormosia pachycarpa	Individuals of this species recorded over 400m from the nearest proposed works area, and would therefore not be impacted.	No Impact.	No impact.	No Impact.
Bamboo Orchid	Arundina chinensis	Individuals of this species recorded within the footprint of an access road in the PSK Assessment Area. Individuals within this area would be directly impacted.	Moderate.	No impact.	No Impact.
Small Persimmon	Diospyros vaccinioides	Individuals of this species recorded within the footprint of the E-WCR tunnel portal. Individuals within this area would be directly impacted.	Moderate.	No impact.	No Impact.

Fauna
Avifauna
Chinese Pond Heron	Ardeola bacchus	Records of this species from the 3 Assessment Areas limited to single birds flying over the Areas or foraging at locations distant from proposed works areas. Impacts are therefore expected to be minor.	Very Low.	Records of this species from the 3 Assessment Areas limited to single birds flying over the Areas or foraging at locations distant from proposed works areas. Impacts are therefore expected to be minor.	Very Low.
Cattle Egret	Bubulcus ibis	Records limited to a small flock flying over Junk Bay in the E-WCR Assessment Area. No impacts to this species are expected.	No Impact.	Records limited to a small flock flying over Junk Bay in the E-WCR Assessment Area. No impacts to this species are expected.	No Impact.
Pacific Reef Egret	Egretta sacra	Reclamation works in the E-WCR Assessment Area would result in loss of foraging habitat for this species. However, Reef Egrets are reasonably common in Hong Kong, and only considered of conservation interest by Fellowes et al. (2002) due to the restricted number of known breeding sites in Hong Kong. As this species has not been recorded breeding in Junk Bay, impacts are considered low-moderate in scale only.	Low-moderate.	Reclamation works in the E-WCR Assessment Area would result in partial loss of foraging habitat for this species, although it is expected to utilise sloping block-work seawalls of newly reclaimed land as a foraging habitat during the operation phase.	Low.
Black Kite	Milvus migrans	Kites are recorded from widespread areas of Hong Kong, including disturbed habitats such as high density urban areas. No substantial impacts to this species is expected during the construction phase.	Very Low.	Kites are recorded from widespread areas of Hong Kong, including disturbed habitats such as high density urban areas. No substantial impacts to this species is expected during the operation phase.	Very Low.
Besra	Accipiter virgatus	Recorded from woodland habitat over 300m distant from the closest proposed works area. Impacts expected to be very minor	Very Low.	Recorded from woodland habitat over 300m from proposed development area at PSK. Impacts expected to be minor	Very Low.
Buzzard	Buteo buteo	Buzzards are uncommon but widespread in Hong Kong with no specialised habitat requirements. Birds 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.	Buzzards are uncommon but widespread in Hong Kong with no specialised habitat requirements. Birds potentially disturbed by operation phase traffic would therefore be likely to relocate to nearby areas further from the source of disturbance. Potential impacts are therefore considered minor.	Very Low.
Crested Goshawk	Accipiter trivirgatus	Recorded from woodland habitat over 400m distant from the closest proposed works area at PSK. Impacts expected to be minor.	Very Low.	Recorded from woodland habitat over 400m from proposed development area at PSK. Impacts expected to be minor.	Very Low.
Kestrel	Falco tinnunculus	Kestrels are common and widespread migrants and winter visitors to Hong Kong with no specialised habitat requirements. Birds potentially disturbed by construction phase activities would therefore be likely to relocate to nearby areas further from the source of disturbance. Potential disturbance impacts are therefore considered minor.	Very Low.	Kestrels are common and widespread migrants and winter visitors to Hong Kong with no specialised habitat requirements. Birds potentially disturbed by operation phase traffic or other impacts would therefore be likely to relocate to nearby areas further from the source of disturbance. Potential impacts are therefore considered minor.	Very Low.
Peregrine Falcon	Falco peregrinus	Peregrines are uncommon but widespread in Hong Kong with no specialised habitat requirements. Birds potentially disturbed by construction phase activities would therefore be likely to relocate to nearby areas further from the source of disturbance. Potential disturbance impacts are therefore considered minor.	Very Low.	Peregrines are uncommon but widespread in Hong Kong with no specialised habitat requirements. Birds potentially disturbed by operation phase traffic would therefore be likely to relocate to nearby areas further from the source of disturbance. Potential disturbance impacts are therefore considered minor.	Very Low.
Greater Coucal	Centropus sinensis	Greater Coucal are common and widespread in Hong Kong with no specialised habitat requirements. Birds potentially disturbed by construction phase activities would therefore be likely to relocate to nearby areas further from the source of disturbance. Potential disturbance impacts are therefore considered minor.	Very Low.	Greater Coucal are common and widespread in Hong Kong with no specialised habitat requirements. Birds potentially disturbed by operation phase traffic would therefore be likely to relocate to nearby areas further from the source of disturbance. Potential disturbance impacts are therefore considered minor.	Very Low.
Grey Bushchat	Saxicola ferrea	The single record of this species from the E-WCR Assessment Area was possibly a bird on migration, and the Assessment Area does not support large areas of the favoured habitats of this species. Impacts are therefore expected to be relatively minor.	Low.	The single record of this species from the E-WCR Assessment Area was possibly a bird on migration, and the Assessment Area does not support large areas of the favoured habitats of this species. Impacts are therefore expected to be relatively minor.	Low.
Black-naped Oriole	Oriolus chinensis	The single record of this species from the E-WCR Assessment Area was probably an autumn passage migrant. Impacts are therefore expected to be relatively minor.	Low.	The single record of this species from the E-WCR Assessment Area was probably an autumn passage migrant. Impacts are therefore expected to be relatively minor.	Low.
Collared Crow	Corvus torquatus	A single Crow was recorded approximately 100m from the proposed WCR road alignment. Impacts are therefore expected to be minor.	Low.	A single Crow was recorded approximately 100m from the proposed W-WCR road alignment. Impacts are therefore expected to be minor.	Low.
Eurasian Eagle Owl*	Bubo bubo	Reclamation works in the E-WCR Assessment Area could lead to disturbance impacts to this species, if it still occurs in the Assessment Area. However, the preferred habitats of this species (poorly vegetated hillsides, low shrubland) are abundant in the TKO area and Hong Kong as a whole. In a ‘worst case’ scenario, this species would probably re-locate to areas of suitable habitat slightly further from the works areas. Impacts are therefore considered relatively minor.	Low-moderate.	Noise and visual disturbance from traffic along the WCR could lead to disturbance impacts to this species, if it still occurs in the Assessment Area. However, the preferred habitats of this species (poorly vegetated hillsides, low shrubland) are abundant in the TKO area and Hong Kong as a whole. In a ‘worst case’ scenario, this species would probably re-locate to areas of suitable habitat slightly further from the source of disturbance. Impacts are therefore considered relatively minor.	Low.

Herpetofauna & Mammals
Chinese Cobra	Naja atra	All four species are common and widespread in Hong Kong, are often recorded in urban/other disturbed areas, are 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 four species are common and widespread in Hong Kong, are often recorded in urban/other disturbed areas, are not considered especially disturbance sensitive, and have no specialised habitat requirements. Any of the species potentially disturbed by operation phase traffic or other activities would therefore be likely to relocate to nearby areas further from the source of disturbance. Potential impacts are therefore considered minor.	Very Low.
Common Rat Snake	Ptyas mucosus		Very Low.		Very Low.
Japanese Pipestrelle	Pipistrellus abramus		Very Low.		Very Low.
Palla’s Squirrel	Callosciurus erythraeus styani		Very Low.		Very Low.

Freshwater Invertebrates
Freshwater Crab	Cryptopotamon anacoluthon	Crab recorded from the upper reaches of PSK Stream, and would therefore not be impacted by the proposed works.	No Impact.	Crab recorded from the upper reaches of PSK Stream, and would therefore not be impacted by the proposed works.	No Impact.

Freshwater Fish
Philippine Neon Goby	Stiphodon artopurpureus	Without mitigation, reclamation works in the E-WCR Assessment Area would lead to permanent disturbance/loss of habitat for juvenile fish.	Moderate-High.	Without mitigation, reclamation works in the E-WCR Assessment Area would lead to permanent disturbance/loss of habitat for juvenile fish.	Moderate-High.

7. Terrestrial Ecology

7.1 Introduction

7.2 Environmental Legislation, Policies, Plans, Standards and Criteria

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

7.2.8 EIAO Guidance Note No. 6/2002 clarifies the requirements of ecological assessments under the EIAO.

7.2.9 EIAO Guidance Note No. 7/2002 provides general guidelines for conducting ecological baseline surveys in order to fulfil requirements stipulated in the EIAO-TM.

7.2.11 The Key Protected Wildlife Species List details Category I and Category II protected animal species under Mainland Chinese Legislation.

7.3 Assessment Methodology

Scope of Terrestrial Ecological Assessment

7.3.1 The proposed Development Area covers a large area, extending from Cha Kwo Ling in the west to Mang Kung Uk in the east. Terrestrial ecological impacts across much of this area are expected to be negligible for the following reasons:

Literature Review

Terrestrial Ecology Survey Methodology

Habitat/Vegetation Surveys

7.3.7 Vegetation surveys were conducted to record species present and relative abundance of plant species in different habitats within the Assessment Areas.

7.3.8 Habitat/Vegetation surveys of the Assessment Areas were conducted in June, August and October 2004.

Avifauna Surveys

Herpetofauna & Mammal Surveys

Terrestrial Insect Surveys

7.3.11 Species present and relative species abundance of adult butterflies and odonates were recorded by direct observation in each Assessment Area. Surveys were conducted three times in the wet season (June, August and October, 2004).

Freshwater Community Surveys

Impact Assessment Methodology

7.3.13 Potential ecological impacts arising from the Project were assessed following EIAO-TM Annex 16 guidelines, with evaluation based on criteria in EIAO-TM Annex 8.

7.4 Description of the Environment

Areas of Conservation Interest

7.4.3 There are no areas of recognised conservation interest (such as Country Parks, Sites of Special Scientific Interest, Coastal Protection Areas or Conservation Areas) in the vicinity of the E-WCR or W-WCR Assessment Areas.

Summary of Literature Review

Habitats and Vegetation

Wildlife

Avifauna

Herpetofauna and Mammals

Terrestrial Insects

Freshwater Communities

7.4.18 No detailed surveys of streams or other freshwater habitats in the three Assessment Areas appear to have been conducted during previous EIA Studies in the TKO Area.

Summary of Current Surveys

Habitats and Vegetation

Secondary Woodland

Mixed Woodland

Disturbed Woodland

Grassland/Shrubland Mosaic

7.4.29 No record of the protected Chinese New Year Flower (Enkianthus quinqueflorus), which was reported from grassland/shrubland habitat in the Road P2 EIA Report, was made from any of the three Assessment Areas during recent surveys.

Village/Orchard & Orchard

7.4.32 In addition to village/orchard habitat, a small banana grove (Musa paradisiaca) was recorded from the E-WCR Assessment Area. This habitat (classified as orchard on Figure 7.1a) had very low plant diversity, and supported no plant species of conservation interest.

Plantation

Wasteland/Developed Areas & Disturbed Grassland

Streams

Abandoned Agriculture

Faunua

Avifauna

7.4.50 Crested Goshawk (Accipiter trivirgatus) were again recorded from woodland habitat in the PSK Assessment Area, with a single bird observed in September 2004. Crested Goshawk are listed as a Class II Protected Species in China.

7.4.53 Greater Coucal (Centropus sinensis) are common and widespread residents in Hong Kong, but are a Category II protected species in Mainland China. Records of one or two Coucals were made from various habitats in all three Assessment Areas throughout the survey period.

Herpetofauna and Mammals

Terrestrial Insects

7.4.63 Recent field surveys recorded 15 dragonfly and 44 butterfly species from the 3 Assessment Areas. The majority of recorded species are common and widespread in Hong Kong, and none are considered of particular conservation interest.

Freshwater Communities

Macroinvertebrate Communities

Fish Communities

7.4.70 Only two common, widespread and exotic fish species were recorded from the W-WCR Stream. Large mixed shoals of Mosquito Fish (Gambusia affinis) and Guppies (Poecilia reticulata) were recorded from pools and other slow-flowing sections of the stream.

7.4.71 Only one fish species, Flat-headed Loach (Oreonectes platycephalus) was recorded from the upper reaches of PSK Stream. Although common in Hong Kong, this fish species is generally confined to the upper reaches of streams, where it is often the only species present (Dudgeon, 2003).

7.5 Ecological Value

7.5.1 In accordance with EIAO-TM Annex 8 criteria, the ecological importance of recorded habitats has been evaluated in Tables 7.1a-7.1f below.

7.5.4 With reference to EIAO-TM Annex 8 criteria, species of conservation interest recorded in the Assessment Areas are evaluated in Table 7.2 below.

7.6 Identification of Environmental Impacts

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

Construction phase

Direct Impacts

7.6.2 Habitats falling within the footprint of proposed works (including roads, tunnel portals and ancillary structures) in the Assessment Areas would be directly and permanently impacted. The approximate areas of directly affected habitats are summarised in Table 7.3 below.