“Merops philipennus – Blue-cheeked bee eater” is coming to Taiwan, the headquarters of Kinmen National Park is ready with new home for these “honored guests”

Summer migrant “Blue-cheeked Bee-eaters (Merops philipennus)” arrive in Kinmen Island every year in April for the purpose of nidification and colonial breeding. The ecological environment In Kinmen’s field is diversely rich for the entire summer; it also arouses the interest of visitors and researchers for studying and observing.

The headquarters of Kinmen National Park commissions Prof. Yuan Hsiao Wei of National Taiwan University and his research team to conduct the study on reproduction ecology of “Blue-cheeked bee eater.” Also, there are also overseas scholars from far away to Kinmen to conduct long-term field research. Based on the guidance of Prof. Yuan, if there is grass at the slope aside at the habitat of “Blue-cheeked bee eater,” it is easier that there would be hide-out of its natural enemy “snake. Besides, some soil slope, if eroded with rainfall, could be affected, and it is suggested that habitat should be conducted of headquarters and arrangement so as to provide Blue-cheeked bee eater a safe and comfortable environment to help facilitate it to increase its nests, In addition, the headquarters of Kinmen National Park will also work closely with the research of National Taiwan University every year to ready nest construction for blue cheeked bee eater.

Blue-cheeked bee eater is one kind of unique bird, the color of their feather is extremely colorful and fascinating. According to the investigation of researcher’s report, they have the excellent raptorial skills on insects, and the interesting ecology behavior called “cooperative breeding”. From the indication of bird experts, they will easily notice the arrival of Blue-cheeked bee eaters by only hearing their voice.

The ecology conservation staff of the headquarters of Kinmen National Park has completed the habitat arrangement of several spots for “Blue-cheeked bee eater,” and they would continuously to trek at areas of the island to observe the conditions of habitat on one hand, and on the other hand to deal with what is necessary right the way. As of such, the headquarters of Kinmen National Park can construct the best “home” for the group of “honored guests” so that everyone can witness and share biodiversity of “Blue-cheeked bee eater” at Kinmen. 

For any problem, please contact Chen Siou Jhu of Conservation Section. The Phone No. is (082)313171.


Source:Kinmen National Park, 2007-05-30
Re-edited by Taiwan News