Study of mountain hawk-eagle in central Taiwan published

台灣中部地區峰鷹研究成果發表

TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The Yushan National Park Administration has released a book based on a multi-year study of the mountain hawk-eagle, Taiwan’s largest resident raptor and an endangered species.

An estimated 170 mountain hawk-eagles live in the park. Their striking appearance and elusive behavior have long fascinated conservationists, and the new publication aims to bring that knowledge to the wider public, per CNA.

The park noted that earlier research focused on low-altitude areas, leaving gaps in knowledge about mid- and high-altitude populations. Since 2019, a team led by National Pingtung University of Science and Technology Professor Sun Yuan-hsun (孫元勳) has carried out in-depth fieldwork in Yushan.

Through long-term surveys, the team documented the bird’s habitat use, feeding, and breeding behaviors. They found that nests are often built at high altitudes on steep slopes, giving the raptors superior aerial vantage points and protecting chicks from threats.

In 2021, the researchers discovered the park’s first known nest and observed three chicks successfully fledge — a milestone for Taiwan’s raptor studies. The team also launched a livestream last year showing the daily life of a young mountain hawk-eagle, which attracted 150,000 viewers from 19 countries within days.

The new book presents the team’s findings alongside photographs and illustrations, exploring the raptor’s ecology, cultural significance, and conservation challenges. It was recognized by the Library of Taiwan Historica as an “excellent publication.”

The park administration said it will continue to promote ecological research and conservation through books, videos, educational programs, and cross-sector collaboration, urging the public to help protect Taiwan’s mountain forests.