Dongsha island birds ecological resource monitor and investigate （1）

Project Duration	2008-01-30 ~ 2008-12-30
Research Title	Dongsha island birds ecological resource monitor and investigate （1）
Contracted Organization	Kaohsiung Wild Bird Society
Principal Investigator	Chang Hsueh-Wen
Co-Principal Investigator	Lin Kun-Hai
Project Personnel	Yang Yu-Hsiang, Sung Hsin-Yi, Hsu Sheng-Fa
Keywords	Island ecology, ecotourism, Southeast Asia–Australia flyway
Abstract	Dongsha Island possesses abundant avian resources but lacks continuous long-term monitoring data. The objective of this project was to establish year-round baseline data on bird species, identify optimal birdwatching seasons and characteristics, and clarify Dongsha Island’s role within migratory routes, providing references for future management. Field surveys and banding studies were conducted from October 2007 to September 2008. A total of 42 newly recorded species were documented, increasing the total number of bird species recorded on Dongsha Island to 186. The island’s avifauna is primarily composed of migratory species, characterized by high species diversity but generally low population numbers and significant seasonal fluctuations. Only 15 species were recorded year-round. Although the White-breasted Waterhen had previously been reported breeding on the island, no additional breeding species were confirmed during this survey. Species diversity indices were highest in May and October, when weather conditions are favorable, making these months most suitable for birdwatching activities. Raptors are diverse and relatively easy to observe, representing a potential highlight for ecotourism. The Ruddy Turnstone was the most abundant species and present year-round, and is recommended as an indicator species. In terms of microhabitats, coastal shrub forests supported the highest number of bird species, while seagrass beds provided important feeding grounds for waterbirds. During the survey period, a Terek Sandpiper banded on Chongming Island and Ruddy Turnstones banded in Nan’ao and Dongnan’ao were observed. Banding data indicated that migratory birds stop over on the island to replenish energy before continuing migration, underscoring Dongsha Island’s importance along migratory flyways. With its rich bird diversity and unique surrounding landscapes, Dongsha Island has advantages for developing birdwatching activities. However, limited freshwater resources and land area, short periods of bird occurrence, and generally small population sizes present challenges. Visitors without birdwatching experience may find it difficult to engage in effective bird observation. It is recommended that pilot activities be organized in the future to evaluate feasibility before broader implementation.