WWF-Hong Kong’s Big Bird Race (BBR) has been our hallmark fundraising event since 1984. The BBR has grown steadily in strength and scope over the years, uniting nature enthusiasts and drawing in local and international birdwatchers. The 2025 BBR, held on 8 February and 1 March, was the 41^st edition of the race and as is customary, it raised money to support conservation efforts at Mai Po Nature Reserve.

A total of 35 teams competed in the youth and professional races, bringing together a mix of seasoned birdwatchers and rookies, including secondary and university students. The professional race was fiercely contested by teams from across Asia, with the Swire All Stars Team claiming victory by spotting 159 species in just 18 hours; they also took home the Highest Fundraising Award. The Queen Elizabeth School Old Students’ Association Secondary School triumphed in the youth race, recording 101 species during the five-hour competition.

As avid conservationists and birdwatchers know, Mai Po Nature Reserve is an important stopover site for numerous migratory birds on the East Asian-Australasia Flyway, including the critically endangered Spoon-billed sandpiper. The funds raised by the 2025 BBR will support the creation of alternative shallow water high-tide roosting areas in the Reserve. These will provide essential roosting sites for waterbirds and benefit species like the Spoon-billed sandpiper, the Black-faced spoonbill, shorebirds, ducks, egrets, and herons, and more.

‍

An International Conservation Perspective

Dr Lee Kisup, from the Korea Waterbird Network, noted that while birdwatching events in Korea emphasise enjoyment and awareness, WWF-Hong Kong’s BBR stands out because it integrates conservation elements: “Hong Kong's event links participant enthusiasm  to help fundraise for tangible habitat management,” he said, “It sets an inspiring example for relationship building on international collaboration”
‍
‍

‍

For Mr Josiah David Quimpo, a BBR participant from the Haribon Foundation in the Philippines, the experience exceeded his expectations: “Mai Po’s wetlands and diverse bird species were a revelation. The networking opportunities were invaluable, and Hong Kong’s wildlife management practices are an excellent model for conservation work”, he shared.
‍
‍

‍

Thanks to the passion and support of participants and donors, the BBR continues to play a vital role in supporting Mai Po Nature Reserve’s long-term conservation.

‍