Although it has been considered as rare species in Hong Kong, recent research found that they are stable resident along the coastal area; in 2012, a total of 15 active pairs were recorded in Hong Kong.
It appears that they are more numerous in eastern water, particularly in Sai Kung district, than western water. The distribution of nest somehow reflect the plight of development pressure on coastal area; a considerable portion of the nests are now located at outlying uninhabited islands, presumably due to the effect of disturbance at inshore that drive them off to more remote area.
Whilst a stable population is sustained in Hong Kong, its status in south China is of concern. Contrast to what appears in Hong Kong, their record in southern China is scarce. It could be data deficient but also could be a consequence of degradation of suitable coastal habitat, which is a subject for further observation.
Whilst a stable population is sustained in Hong Kong, its status in south China is of concern. Contrast to what appears in Hong Kong, their record in southern China is scarce. It could be data deficient but also could be a consequence of degradation of suitable coastal habitat, which is a subject for further observation.