“Our main mission in Khotang, Nepal, working alongside the Nepal Conservation and Study Centre (NCSC) team and local volunteers, was to participate in seven camera-trapping surveys for pangolin conservation. To minimize human disruption, we ventured into remote, off-grid areas. Setting up these cameras is a precise art: we locate active animal paths, mount the cameras knee-high at a slight downward tilt, and position them 3 to 5 meters away at a side angle. This side orientation ensures animals linger in the sensor frame longer, maximizing our chances of capturing full-body triggers. Despite the grueling terrain, seeing footage of pangolins, clouded leopards, red muntjacs, martens, Indian porcupines, and spotted civets made every step worthwhile!

Hiking through Nepal’s high altitudes above 2,000 meters tested both our physical limits and how you overcome difficulties. Carrying backpacks over 10 kilograms, each step upward brought biting cold winds that made our faces and fingers ache. There were moments of sheer exhaustion where we questioned if we could keep going. Yet, looking up to reveal rolling seas of clouds and majestic snow-capped peaks instantly restored our strength, transforming fatigue into pure awe.

Beyond field research, we visited a local school to exchange ideas with their student environmental protection group. The campus was filled with educational boards detailing pangolin habits and conservation threats. Exploring the nearby forest together, we even discovered two active pangolin burrows—a powerful testament to how community-led education drives local conservation.

Above all, the warmth of the local community touched us deeply. From making sure we stayed warm to preparing thoughtful snacks, their incredible hospitality made us feel completely at home. Departing Hong Kong right before Christmas on December 23, 2025, Andy and I arrived in Nepal driven by passion for wildlife—and we left with unforgettable memories, deep gratitude, and a renewed commitment to conservation.”

2025-26 participant Louise YEUNG Lok Yi, BIOL3

“Joining the Deer Team at Bayawan Nature Reserve in the Philippines, I worked alongside the Talarak Foundation to monitor three endemic and threatened species, the Visayan Spotted Deer, Visayan Warty Pig, and Negros Bleeding Heart Dove, using camera trapping, secondary sign surveys, habitat assessment, fence patrols, and radiotelemetry. I had expected conservation to centre mainly on wildlife monitoring but came to understand that long-term conservation also depends on habitat management, community engagement, and environmental education. The fieldwork tested my resilience as I navigated steep, trail-less terrain, while living and working with teammates and staff from diverse backgrounds showed me that conservation is driven by people as much as by science. This experience deepened my interest in interdisciplinary research and inspired me to connect laboratory science with field-based conservation and science communication.”

2025-26 participant Lucy CHIU Moon Yan, CMBI4

The DNA project at Monash University Malaysia opened my eyes to how conservation genetics translates from bench to policy.  Working hands-on through DNA and RNA extraction, PCR, and gel electrophoresis, then diving into bioinformatics with Python and Linux, I saw firsthand how meticulous lab work and careful data interpretation underpin effective conservation strategies for seahorses and stingrays.  I arrived with theoretical expectations and left with a tangible sense of scientific craftsmanship, teamwork, and resilience.  This experience reinforced my commitment to a career in conservation science, where precise molecular analyses can inform real-world decisions and safeguard vulnerable marine life.

2024-25 participant Kelvin TANG Lok Kan, CMBI3

The opportunity to participate in Bryde’s Whale conservation on WeiZhou Island in GuangXi was truly transformative.  Through OPCFHK’s Cetacean project, I engaged in hands-on Bryde’s Whale population surveys, tourist impact assessments and different community education projects.  What struck me most is the conversation with local islanders.  Their traditional ecological knowledge, combined with their passion on environmental protection, shaped an innovative conservation initiative on island, like “Free Coffee While Cleaning Beach” and “Zero-Waste Hostel”.  This experience fundamentally shifted my understanding of conservation from a purely scientific effort to a deeply human-centred approach.

2024-25 participant Jade SIN Kwan Lok, ENSC4

Visiting panda research centres in Sichuan was an unforgettable adventure.  I learned how experts train pandas for life in the wild and experienced hands-on conservation work like analysing samples and setting up cameras.  Fieldwork was challenging – sometimes tiring and even risky, like the day I got bitten by a tick.  I realised conservation means persevering through discomfort, not just interacting with adorable animals.  Back in Hong Kong, I want to share these important lessons so others could see panda conservation as valuable work beyond being attracted to their cuteness.  This journey helped me become braver and more adaptable.  The experience has strengthened my determination to pursue a future career in ecological conservation and environmental education.

2024-25 participant Long CHAN Cheuk Long, BIOL3

Through USSP, I have the chance to have a field trip to the Bayawan Nature Reserve in Philippines. Confronting the reality of protecting endangered species first-hand, I have experienced the importance and urgency of conservation efforts. Witnessing and participating in the scientific research conducted there has allowed me to appreciate the efforts of conservationists, given me a comprehensive awareness of this field, strengthened my resilience and reinforced my determination and passion to engage in scientific research in the future.

2023-24 participant Justin LEONG Chi Ho, BIOL3

The site in Bayawan Nature Reserve in Philippines is out of my expectation. The facilities there are not very technological, but the natural protection, including iron fence around the reserve, shoes cleaning before entering the reserve, etc. are good for the animals living there. Philippines’ culture also makes me interested: The pace there is slow, and the people there are very talkative and helpful. I love the place.

2023-24 participant Alex LEUNG Cheuk Yin, BIOL4

The opportunity to monitor the endangered dugongs in the Philippines was life changing to me. Thanks to OPCFHK and C3 (Community Centred Conservation) Philippinnes, we studied the grazing habits and behaviour of Dugongs, as well as some community centered methods for conservation and education. This experience has broadened my perspective towards people centered conservation. I learnt that their patience and care towards both human enrichment and animal well-being is a crucial component for sustainable conservation. This allows me not only to rethink my personal views and goals but offers me a human aspect to consider.  I can have a more all-rounded approach towards the overall field of scientific thinking for the applicable future.

2023-24 participant Ashley FU Hoi Lam, CMBI2