Manzhou Eagle Watching Introduction
Eagle watching in Manzhou has become one of the important annual events for birdwatchers. Manzhou Township is a valley terrain surrounded by low hills, and due to the mountain barrier, this area has become the best wind-sheltered place in Hengchun. Coupled with its rich vegetation, it serves as an ideal winter habitat for the Grey-faced Buzzard. The Grey-faced Buzzard is a common migratory bird in Taiwan, inhabiting regions in Siberia, Northeast China, and Japan. During autumn and winter, they migrate south, and Taiwan is perfectly positioned along their migratory route, with the largest numbers arriving around the Double Ten Festival, which is why they are sometimes referred to as "National Day Birds." When the Grey-faced Buzzards pass through Manzhou, they primarily roost around Lide Village, while the three best eagle-watching spots are "Manzhou Bridge, Mountain Top Bridge, and Lide Bridge." The open surroundings provide a broad vista, allowing for a spectacular view of large groups of Grey-faced Buzzards flying overhead. Watching time: The Grey-faced Buzzards migrate through Taiwan from early to mid-October. After 10 AM each day, they gradually fly from the north to Longluantan or Sheting Park and continue south to Manzhou Township. Upon reaching Manzhou, it is usually around noon, the best time for eagle watching. The buzzards will soar to a certain height on the thermals, circling back and forth, repeatedly descending and ascending. At dusk, they will land on treetops to rest, known as "falling hawks." Eagle-watching equipment: When you prepare for eagle watching, binoculars and a guidebook are essential gear that you must bring! While observing the Grey-faced Buzzards, you can record your observations, including insights, time, location, and species, as well as closely watch their flying conditions, allowing you to accumulate valuable birdwatching experience for future research and analysis. Remember not to wear brightly colored clothes to avoid being attacked by the birds. Grey-faced Buzzard profile: The Grey-faced Buzzard, also known as the National Day Bird, has a grey patch on its face, a reddish-brown crown, and white markings on its eyebrows and throat. They are found in Siberia, Northeast China, the Korean Peninsula, and Japan. Migration routes: The Grey-faced Buzzards migrate either overland, south from Siberia, Korea, and Northeast China, or by sea, passing through Japan and the Ryukyu Islands. Ultimately, both routes lead to northeastern Taiwan, following the north-south orientation of the Central Mountain Range, flying towards Hengchun Peninsula, reaching Manzhou Township to rest before continuing their journey across the Bashi Channel to warmer areas for winter.
