The Development Bureau (DEVB) and the Institute of Vertebrate Paleontology and Paleoanthropology (IVPP) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS)  signed the Framework Agreement on Deepening Exchange and Collaboration regarding Stratigraphy, Palaeontology and Prehistoric Sites to conduct scientific research, specimen management and identification, training, and exchanges in the fields of palaeontology, palaeoanthropology and palaeolithic sites.

Dinosaur fossils were discovered for the first time in Hong Kong. Photo shows dinosaur fossils discovered on Port Island in the Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark.

The Antiquities and Monuments Office (AMO) and the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) announced on 24 October that the discovery of dinosaur fossils on Port Island, which is in the Northeast New Territories Sedimentary Rock Region of Hong Kong Geopark. Please click here for HKSAR Government Press Releases.

The discovery was revealed by the China University of Geosciences (Beijing). After a preliminary analysis, the Institute of Vertebrate Paleontology and Paleoanthropology (IVPP) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), a leading Chinese paleontological research institution, confirmed the discovery of dinosaur fossils. It was initially confirmed that the fossils were part of a large dinosaur from the Cretaceous period (~145 million to 66 million years ago). Further study is required to confirm the dinosaur species.

To facilitate future investigations and excavations by experts, the AFCD announced the closure of the entire area of Port Island, in Plover Cove (Extension) Country Park, from 23 October 2024 until further notice, pursuant to the Country Parks and Special Areas Regulations (Cap. 208A). During the closure of Port Island, except for approved experts and other relevant personnel, no person may land on or enter Port Island. Offenders may be liable to prosecution. Please click here for more information.

Port Island is a remote, uninhabited island without any pier or facilities. There are numerous underwater rocky reefs along the coast, and the island often faces rough seas, making it difficult for safe mooring. For safety reasons, the public should not attempt to access Port Island. The AFCD, AMO and IVPP will jointly take forward the study of dinosaur fossils and construct the story of dinosaurs in Hong Kong. The first dinosaur fossil of Hong Kong will be on display at the Hong Kong Heritage Discovery Centre starting on Friday, 25 October. Everyone is welcome to visit!

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