TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — A migratory raptor survey by Yushan National Park found 60,106 gray-faced buzzards and Chinese sparrowhawks have passed through the park during the autumn migration period, the highest number since the start of the survey in 2020.
It was carried out during two periods: Sept. 13–27 and Oct. 8–20. A total of 30,279 gray-faced buzzards were spotted during these two periods, while 29,827 Chinese sparrowhawks were counted, per CNA.
Peak migration for gray-faced buzzards is typically in mid-October, with many migrating from breeding grounds in Japan to wintering locations in the Philippines. Gray-faced buzzards entering Taiwan fly southward following mountain ridges and roosting overnight in river valleys where they feast on frogs, lizards, and rodents.
The survey took place at the Tataka Recreation Center, a popular observation area along the autumn raptor migration. According to park officials, raptors observed in this area are just one-quarter of an estimated 340,000 raptors that transit through Kenting.
One of the best raptor-watching spots is Linzhi Mountain, around 2,900 meters above sea level. During migratory periods, visitors can view the spectacular sight of gray-faced buzzards riding the rising air currents and circling overhead
According to Yushan National Park, other raptors migrating through this area have included the crested honey buzzard, crested serpent eagle, mountain hawk-eagle, black eagle, crested goshawk, peregrine falcon, Eurasian hobby, kestrel, and osprey. Park authorities hope the public will respect and care for raptors by keeping their environment litter-free.
Gray-faced buzzards were once hunted in Taiwan for food and their prized plumage, which was frequently sold to Japanese collectors. Overseas demand for specimens grew in the late 1960s and throughout the 1970s until conservationists pointed out the harmful practice.
Gray-faced buzzards were often caught in snares when roosting at night or stunned with a flashlight and shot with air guns. Trained hunters could take up to 80 buzzards in a single night.
Conservation efforts eventually ended this practice in the early 1980s as birding enthusiasts drew attention to dwindling numbers spotted in Yushan National Park and Kenting.
According to the park, raptor migration is affected by weather conditions and topography. Observation by volunteers is also affected by cloud cover.
