The aim of the work is to create conditions suitable for wet reedbed, which previous research has shown is more suitable for most of the birds relying on this habitat, and is also less prone to colonization by other vegetation.

Reedbed is one of the important habitats at Mai Po Nature Reserve, providing home to some insect species and attracting birds to forage and roost throughout the year, especially during migration. Unfortunately, due to natural colonization of terrestrial vegetation, some of the reedbeds at Mai Po are starting to lose their value. Two projects taking place at Mai Po this summer aim to enhance the ecological value of some of these reedbed areas to bring back the wildlife.

The aim of the work is to create conditions suitable for wet reedbed, which previous research has shown is more suitable for most of the birds relying on this habitat, and is also less prone to colonization by other vegetation. The works will involve cutting and removing the above-ground stems and leaves of reeds and other vegetation and lowering the pond floor before reflooding the gei wai. Reeds are expected to rapidly recolonize from underground roots and stems, while terrestrial vegetation will not easily recolonize.

Reedbed enhancement work in the seaward end of Gei wai #11 will be started in May 2013, and the gei wai has already been drained in preparation for the works. This work in Gei wai #11 is funded by money raised by the 2013 Big Bird Race and is expected to be completed by September. Similar work will also be carried out at Pond #9 (next to the Tower Hide) in July and August.

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Reedbed Enhancement Work at Mai Po in Summer 2013