Gongliao Peregrine Falcons Raise Chicks, Hunt 'Red Ferrari' Bird

The skies above Gongliao District in New Taipei City have become a stage for nature's drama, as peregrine falcons, a protected species, are actively raising their young. This year, the sight of the chicks has drawn a significant crowd of bird enthusiasts and locals to the viewing spots along the Longdong trail. They are eager to capture the incredible spectacle of the parent falcons feeding and interacting with their offspring.

Adding to the drama, a recent sighting has captivated birdwatchers: a peregrine falcon successfully hunted a Scarlet Minivet, a rare migratory bird known for its striking red plumage and swift flight, earning it the nickname "Red Ferrari." This event, while a testament to the falcon's hunting prowess, has also stirred mixed emotions among observers, highlighting the raw realities of the wild.

“

The peregrine falcon is the fastest bird in the world, reaching speeds of up to 300 kilometers per hour during its hunting dives, faster than high-speed rail.

While the public is enthralled by the peregrine falcons' breeding success, conservation groups are raising concerns. They point to the legal artificial breeding and sale of peregrine falcons, which makes it difficult to distinguish between legally bred birds and those obtained through illegal poaching. To protect the vulnerable chicks, these groups are urging authorities to delist peregrine falcons from the list of raptors eligible for legal import and captive breeding, emphasizing the need for stricter measures against illegal wildlife trade.

“

The Scarlet Minivet is rarely seen in Taiwan, and to see it become prey for the peregrine falcon is shocking and evokes complex feelings.