The Chinese University of Hong Kong is a university situated in Sha Tin, next to Tolo Harbour. It is established in 1963. The campus covers a hill and despite being an urban area, most of the natural environment is kept.

Next to the MTR station is Lake Ad Excellentiam, an artificial lake whose outlets connect to Tolo Harbour. Many decorative plants surround the lake, including Bald Cypress, Chinese Sweet Gum and Plumeria. The abundance of fish attracts many water birds such as Chinese Pond Heron, Night Heron and Common Kingfisher to feed and find shelter.

'Alumni Trail', built along a stream, is located behind the Chung Chi College Chapel. The stream was originally natural, but nearby constructions of academic buildings have led to the stream being artificially straightened. The trail, along with the Herbal Garden, is home to many dragonflies and damselflies. It is also home to some reptiles and amphibians.

The eaves of the University Library are covered with nests of Little Swifts. At dusk it is easy to see them circling the air. An expansion of the library began in 2009. To reduce the effects of the construction on the Little Swifts, the university built birdhouses on the side farthest from the construction site, in hope of attracting the swifts there. In the end, most swifts still inhabit the library eaves.

Apart from common urban birds species such as Red-whiskered Bulbuls, Oriental Magpie-Robins and Black-collared Starlings, other bird species such as Blue Whistling Thrush, Grey-chinned Minivet and Collared Crows can also be found.