Large Stingray School Spotted in Tai Po's Lam Tsuen River, Experts Urge Conservation
HK01 · 2 SOURCESabout 3 hours ago5 MIN
Summary
A large school of stingrays, locally known as devil rays, appeared in Lam Tsuen River near Tai Po on Thursday, September 3, 2026, drawing attention from both residents and anglers. The creatures were spotted swimming gracefully in shallow waters near Kwong Fuk Bridge, with multiple videos capturing their synchronized movement. While the public marveled at the rare sight, some fishing enthusiasts attempted to catch the rays, prompting calls from marine experts for conservation awareness.
Key Points
- Large numbers of stingrays, scientifically identified as the red stingray, were observed swimming in the shallow waters of Lam Tsuen River near Kwong Fuk Bridge
- Marine biologist Chong Dai-wah (莊棣華), President of the Hong Kong Fish Society, explained that the recent fishing moratorium and increased water flow from rainy days likely prompted the rays to enter the river to forage
- Online videos showed multiple rays of varying sizes swimming together near the riverbank, with one angler reportedly catching two stingrays within approximately 10 minutes
- Chong noted that stingrays are commonly found in Hong Kong's coastal muddy areas such as Mai Po, Lau Fau Shan, Tolo Harbour, and Sai Kung, and occasionally enter estuaries
- The expert emphasized that devil rays have venomous tail spines with serrated edges that can cause significant swelling if humans are stung
- Netizens expressed concern online, urging passersby to protect the creatures and let them return to the sea rather than capture them
Why It Matters
The appearance of a significant stingray school in an urban river highlights the ecological value of Hong Kong's waterways and the delicate balance between urban development and marine biodiversity. Experts view this as an opportunity for public education, encouraging citizens to appreciate and protect aquatic life rather than exploit it, particularly as wild fish populations remain at critically low levels compared to historical records.
The appearance of a significant stingray school in an urban river highlights the ecological value of Hong Kong's waterways and the delicate balance between urban development and marine biodiversity. Experts view this as an opportunity for public education, encouraging citizens to appreciate and protect aquatic life rather than exploit it, particularly as wild fish populations remain at critically low levels compared to historical records.