The Kenting National Park Headquarters have been monitoring the numbers of autumn migratory raptors, calculating the species and quantities of raptors through visual observation to understand the trends in the numbers of migratory raptors over the years. Among all, Chinese sparrowhawks and gray-faced buzzards make up the most migratory raptors in Taiwan, with a significant influx in the migrating population in mid-September and mid-October.

The first group of migratory Chinese sparrowhawks this year may have been affected by the consecutive typhoons around Taiwan in early September. They were only observed on record on September 11 at the surveillance point, for which the vanguard of about 200 strong arrived in Kenting. On September 12, the migrating numbers swelled to more than 22,000 strong.

The Kenting National Park Headquarters would like to remind the public who wish to witness the passage of Chinese sparrowhawks, to choose days with clear and calm weather conditions. Locations like the Lingxiao Pavilion and Hanbi Pavilion in the Sheding Nature Park are excellent viewing spots. When observing raptors, be sure to apply sunscreen and bring binoculars to witness the spectacular sight of Chinese sparrowhawks forming a river of raptors in the sky.