Manjhouli Introduction
Manzhou Township in Pingtung County features a low-lying hilly terrain and is characterized by a tropical monsoon climate, which fosters a rich ecosystem of tropical plants. Around October each year, a large group of the Grey-faced Buzzard gathers in the vicinity of Lidou Village, gradually establishing the area as a renowned hawk-watching destination. The Grey-faced Buzzard, also known as the Steppe Eagle, primarily breeds in southeastern Siberia, northeastern China, Korea, and Japan. During the autumn and winter seasons, they migrate collectively to Southeast Asia to escape the harsh winter, and Manzhou Lidou is one of their stopover locations. The best spots for hawk-watching in Manzhou Lidou are Lidou Bridge, Manzhou Bridge, and Shanding Bridge, where thousands of Grey-faced Buzzards arrive around the national day celebrations, earning them the nickname "National Day Bird." Saying "thousands" is hardly an exaggeration, which is also why many birdwatching enthusiasts flock here. When a swarm of Grey-faced Buzzards circles in the clear sky, the scene transforms from a blend of blue and white to a dark grey, resembling a cloud of shadows. As the saying goes, "the more, the merrier," and this is indeed a spectacular sight. The beauty lies not only in the grand spectacle but also in the soaring "eagle's posture." Generally, the afternoon is the best time for hawk-watching, as the flocks gather for group flights, showcasing their magnificent displays. This includes soaring on thermals, reaching a certain height to glide gracefully, or suddenly performing low-altitude reverse flight after flapping their wings for some time. The scenes of ascending, diving, dispersing, and gathering repeat endlessly, often evoking awe. Occasionally, some buzzards swoop close to observers, providing delightful surprises for birdwatchers. The passage of the Grey-faced Buzzard brings rare tourist crowds, and with the gradual establishment of conservation awareness, the residents of Manzhou Township have come to realize that protecting bird ecology is equivalent to safeguarding precious tourism resources. They have formed the "Grey-faced Buzzard Patrol" to reduce hunting behaviors by unscrupulous individuals, and thanks to their efforts, many have been able to witness this extraordinary sight of flying eagles.
