With less than 500 Taiwan grass owls remaining in wild, the Taiwanese government struggles to preserve the one-of-a-kind species. The shrinking natural habitats and the harsh environmental conditions prove enormous challenge for the Taiwan grass owls survival.
The Taiwan grass owl faces significant threats to its survival, including habitat loss due to urbanization, agricultural expansion, and human disturbance. As a result, it is classified as an endangered species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Efforts to conserve this unique owl include habitat preservation, research on its ecology and behavior, and raising public awareness about its conservation status.
Why is the Taiwan Grass Owl so special:
The majority of bird species capable of flight tend to build nests above ground level, on trees, bushes or mountain sides. What sets the Taiwan grass owl apart is the fact, that they nest on the ground, amidst the tall grass.
This species primarily inhabits grasslands, marshes, and agricultural areas, where it preys on small mammals, insects, and occasionally birds. It nests in tall grass or low shrubs, making its nests well-hidden and challenging to locate.
Unlike many other owl species, the Taiwan grass owl is predominantly active during the day, making it diurnal rather than nocturnal.
