Imagine seeing big, horned buffalo walking through a city! Sounds like a scene from a movie, right? But it’s actually happening in Hong Kong! You’ll see the UID printed like: ✅ Card UID: C345B514
🐃 A Surprising Sight
When people think of Hong Kong, they often imagine tall skyscrapers, fast trains, and crowded streets. But did you know that in the peaceful marshlands of South Lantau Island, wild water buffalo roam freely?
These large animals once worked alongside farmers long ago. But now, they live on their own, wandering through grasslands and even crossing quiet roads. For some people, they’re a lovely reminder of the city’s past. For others, they can be a little too wild for comfort.
🧠 What Do People Think?
A team of scientists from the City University of Hong Kong wanted to find out how local people feel about these buffalo neighbors. So, they asked 657 people questions in a big survey — some online and some in person.
Here’s what they learned:
- 🟡 Most people felt neutral (kind of in the middle — not too excited, not too upset).
- 🟢 Many people liked the buffalo, seeing them as cool and part of nature.
- 🔴 But some were worried about traffic problems, safety risks, and damage to nature.
People who grew up near rural areas or saw wildlife more often were more likely to say, “Buffalo are great!” But people who didn’t have much experience with animals were more cautious.
💬 What They Said
Some people said the buffalo made them feel connected to a simpler, nature-filled time. Others enjoyed spotting them on a walk. But some folks were concerned the animals might block roads or cause accidents.
Age and background mattered too:
- Younger people were usually more accepting.
- Older people or those who had never lived near animals were more worried.
- People living right in South Lantau (where the buffalo are) had different views than those living farther away.
📚 What Can We Learn?
These buffalo aren’t just big animals with funny horns. They’re also teaching people how humans and animals can live together — even in a big, busy place like Hong Kong!
Some scientists say we should use this chance to teach more kids and families about wildlife and conservation. By learning to care about the creatures around us, we can build a better world where both people and animals feel at home.
💡 DO YOU KNOW?
- Buffalo can weigh over 1,000 kg — that’s heavier than a small car!
- Water buffalo love marshes and mud — it keeps them cool and protects their skin.
- Wild buffalo were once helpers on farms. Now, they live freely, without farmers.
❓ FUN QUIZ TIME!
- Where do wild buffalo live in Hong Kong?
A. In shopping malls
B. South Lantau Island
C. Subway stations
D. On mountain tops
→ Correct Answer: B - Why are some people worried about buffalo?
A. They steal food
B. They make loud music
C. They might cause traffic or safety problems
D. They don’t pay rent
→ Correct Answer: C - Who usually likes the buffalo more?
A. People who live in space
B. People with no pets
C. People used to wildlife
D. Robots
→ Correct Answer: C
