Radio Taiwan International 
Date: 29 April, 2019
By: Paula Chao

Sheer number of African Sacred Ibis a threat to ecology

A non-native species of bird called the African Sacred Ibis is threatening the local ecology in Taiwan. Over the last 30 years, the ibis population has swelled at the Xucuogang Wetland in the northern county of Taoyuan. The wetland, was originally set aside as a nesting place for migratory birds. But now the African Sacred Ibis is squeezing out the space for indigenous and migratory birds.

This bird with white feathers and slender legs is called the African Sacred Ibis. A symbol of wisdom in ancient Egypt, the alien species is a threat to Xucuogang Wetland in Taoyuan city, and a headache for environmentalists.

The head of the Wild Bird Society of Taoyuan, Wu Yu-chou, said the bird can be spotted in every stream, even in places farther away from rivers, such as Bade and Daxi.

It’s been 30 years since the bird was first introduced to Taiwan. In 1984, six birds escaped from a local zoo. The association says the number has now grown to more than 3,000.    [FULL  STORY]