Manzhou Eagle Watching Introduction
The Matsu Eaglewatch has become one of the important annual events for birdwatching enthusiasts. Manjhou Township features a river valley terrain surrounded by low hills, and due to the surrounding mountain barriers, it serves as the best wind protection area in Hengchun. Coupled with its rich plant life, it has become an ideal winter habitat for the Grey-faced Buzzard. The Grey-faced Buzzard is a relatively common migratory bird in Taiwan. It breeds in Siberia, Northeast China, and Japan, migrating south during autumn and winter. Taiwan is strategically located along their migratory route, with the highest numbers occurring around the Double Ten Festival, leading some to refer to them as the "National Day Bird." During their passage through Manjhou, they mostly roost around Lide Village, and the three best eaglewatching spots are Manjhou Bridge, Hilltop Bridge, and Lide Bridge. Due to the open surroundings, the wide view allows for a spectacular sight of flocks of Grey-faced Buzzards soaring through the sky. Eaglewatching Schedule: The Grey-faced Buzzards migrate to Taiwan from early to mid-October each year. After 10 a.m. daily, they gradually fly south from their northern locations towards Longluan Lake or Sheding Park, arriving above Manjhou by around noon, which is considered the best time for eaglewatching. The buzzards will ascend with the air currents to a certain height, circling back and forth while repeatedly landing and taking off. At dusk, they will descend to the treetops to rest, which is referred to as "landing buzzard." Eaglewatching Gear: When you prepare to go eaglewatching, a "spotting scope" and a "field guide" are the basic necessities that you must bring with you! While observing the Grey-faced Buzzards, you can record your observations, including the time, location, and species, among other notes. Additionally, you can observe the flying behaviors of the Grey-faced Buzzards in detail, accumulating valuable birdwatching experience for future research and analysis. Remember not to wear bright clothing to avoid attracting unwanted attention from 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 greyish-brown crown with reddish tint, and white markings on its brow and throat. It breeds in regions such as Siberia, Northeast China, the Korean Peninsula, and Japan. Migration Route: Some flocks of Grey-faced Buzzards take the land route, migrating south from Siberia, Korea, and Northeast China, while others take the sea route via Japan and the Ryukyu Islands. Eventually, both routes converge in the northeastern part of Taiwan, following the north-south orientation of the Central Mountain Range. They head toward the Hengchun Peninsula, reaching Manjhou to rest before continuing their journey across the Bashi Channel to warmer areas for wintering.
