Saving a Fish-eating Specialist – The Pied Kingfisher
On 14th April 2015, a Pied Kingfisher was released in Mai Po Nature Reserve following a two-day rehabilitation at the Wild Animal Rescue Centre (Rescue Centre). It was the first time this species of bird had been received by the Rescue Centre.
Amanda Crow, Conservation Officer, from the Rescue Team releasing the recovered Pied Kingfisher at the Mai Po Nature Reserve
On 12th April, the Kingfisher was discovered sitting on the ground near Mai Po Nature Reserve and reported to the Rescue Centre by Dr. Michael Lau from the World Wide Fund (WWF) Hong Kong. The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty of Animals (SPCA) was informed and shortly afterward picked up the bird. It was then passed to the Rescue Centre on the same day.
The Rescue Team carried a general veterinary check upon arrival. Dried blood was spotted in its mouth and a scab on its right thigh. The bird might have suffered concussion following an impact. Luckily, the injuries were fairly superficial hence the prompt recovery.
The Pied Kingfisher under rehabilitation and care at the Rescue Centre
A flight test was carried out on 14th April morning in the flight test enclosure. The Kingfisher flew well and was in good condition. Therefore, a decision was made to release it back in Mai Po.
KFBG staff showing underwing (left) and upperwing (right) patterns of the Pied Kingfisher
The Pied Kingfisher was extremely lucky to be spotted and rescued in time. Otherwise, it would not have had the chance to be set free again. Special thanks to the WWF Hong Kong and the SPCA for reporting and transferring the injured bird.
Please report any injured wild animals to the Agriculture Fisheries and Conservation Department (Hotline: 1823), SPCA (Hotline: 2711 1000) or the Rescue Centre at KFBG (Hotline: 2483 7200).
Animal Profile
