A lecture hall at the University of Hong Kong filled with trills, hoots, and chirps as families and students mimicked the voices of local birds.
The Hong Kong Bird Watching Society held the city’s first birdcall contest on Aug. 23 to raise awareness about wildlife. Contestants pressed the sides of their throats or contorted their bodies to imitate birds such as the Asian koel, Asian barred owlet, large hawk-cuckoo, and brown fish owl. Some wore feathered headpieces to mimic birds. The winner of the top prize was Bob Chan, who gave a lively impression of the Eurasian tree sparrow.
Short clips of the contest went viral online, giving the local event global attention. Many viewers were surprised to learn that Hong Kong hosts more than 580 bird species. Sitting on the East Asian-Australasian Flyway, the city’s wetlands, forests, shrublands, and coastal areas provide vital resting and feeding spots for migratory birds.
Researchers record bird calls to track species, migration patterns, and population trends. Spectrograms turn sounds into visual patterns of pitch and rhythm, helping scientists distinguish similar species and map their habitats. Recordings also reveal how urban noise can shift birds’ singing schedules or raise their pitch to be heard. Such insights guide efforts to restore wetlands and protect quiet spaces.
Anyone can contribute. On your next walk, pause for 30 seconds and listen. Note what you hear or record a brief clip. Share your observations with a school club or local nature group. Small efforts like these help build knowledge, shape conservation plans, and create a kinder city for birds. Every careful ear adds to the bigger picture for future research.