Abstract:

Black-faced Spoonbill Platalea minor is one of the critically endangered species in the world. From 2003 to 2005, its potential wintering sites around Hainan Island were investigated. Among 50 sites surveyed, three wintering populations were found: 1 individual in Dongzhaigang Nature Reserve of Haikou in 2003 and 2004, and 13 individuals in Houshui Bay of Lingao County in 2003 and 51 individuals in 2004 in Beili Bay of Dongfang. The later two populations are firstly found in Hainan Island. The results show that Hainan Island is a very important wintering site following Hongkong and Taiwan in China, and therefore Houshui Bay and Beili Bay should be listed as Wetland of International Importance. Mudflat exploitation, seafood collecting and illegal hunting are the three local threats against Black-faced Spoonbill and its habitat. The investigation indicated that a special conservation agency for this species should be established, and public awareness should be improved around the wintering sites.

Key words: Black-faced Spoonbill, Dongzhai port, Houshui Bay, Beili Bay, Hainan Island