Animals & Plants

The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species^TM is a widely recognised inventory developed by the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN). By gathering the findings of experts and assessing the global conservation status of animals, plants and fungi, the List classifies species into different categories. It is a powerful tool that provides reliable information and supports conservation work by underpinning many international conferences, conventions and conservation laws in many countries.

To better understand the threatened status of China’s species and to strengthen biodiversity conservation, the Ministry of Ecology and Environment of China and the Chinese Academy of Sciences compiled the "Red List of China’s Biodiversity". Drawing on the expertise of many specialists from across the country, it was the most comprehensive species assessment and analysis in China to date. This list follows the categorisation and criteria of the IUCN Red List.

The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) is a conservation agreement among governments from countries around the world. It aims to safeguard wild animals and plants by regulating international trade. The protected species are classified into 3 appendices.

The List of State Key Protected Wild Animal and the Regulations on Wild Plant Protection of China were formulated by the National Forestry and Grassland Administration and the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs of China. In accordance with the Chinese conservation laws and regulations on wild flora and fauna, rare and endangered species are classified into two categories, serving as key legal bases for conservation. (Category 1 gives higher protection than Category 2.)

To protect Hong Kong’s wildlife and natural habitats, as well as to fulfil the CITES obligations, Hong Kong law includes the "Wild Animals Protection Ordinance" (Cap. 170) and "Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance" (Cap. 586). In addition, the "Country Parks Ordinance" (Cap. 208) and "Marine Parks and Marine Reserves Regulation" (Cap. 476A) also provide legal protection for wildlife within the designated areas or waters.