Formosan Giant Flying Squirrel
Did you hear the sharp, rapid "chatter" sound? That’s the call of the Formosan Giant Flying Squirrel, the most common flying squirrel in Taiwan. Despite their name, flying squirrels don’t actually fly; they glide between trees using a special membrane. These nocturnal creatures are active at night, so don't forget to look up when you're in the mountains at night. The reflection of their yellow eyes will guide you to them.
Formosan Wild Boar
Listen carefully—this is the sound of a Formosan Wild Boar struggling after being captured. Normally, wild boars don’t make much noise unless they feel threatened and want to scare off an enemy. The Formosan Wild Boar has an extremely keen sense of smell. In addition to this, they use their snouts to root around in the soil in search of food. If you encounter disturbed patches of earth in the forest, it’s likely the traces of wild boars foraging.
Formosan Serow
The sound of the Formosan Serow resembles a short, sharp bark, and they are naturally timid creatures, making them the smallest species of deer in Taiwan. Due to their shy nature, their resting periods are brief; they tend to stop for only a moment before moving on. Additionally, there is a slight sexual dimorphism in the species—males have a pair of antlers on their heads, while females do not.
Formosan Wild Goat
The short "chirp" you just heard is the call of the Formosan Wild Goat. Unlike domestic goats, they don’t make the typical "bleat" sound. It is the only native bovine species in Taiwan. Thanks to their hooves, which spread outward, they are able to navigate rocky slopes with ease. As a result, you can often spot their agile tracks in areas with exposed rocks or steep mountainous terrain.
Formosan Sambar Deer
The Formosan Sambar Deer is the largest herbivorous animal in Taiwan. Known for their strong adaptability, they can be found at elevations ranging from 300 to 3,000 meters. Their vocalization is a high-pitched, sharp "ah" sound. With sturdy hooves and powerful limbs, they move freely through rugged mountainous terrain and steep valleys.
Formosan Black Bear
The Formosan Black Bear is one of Taiwan's endemic species, easily recognized by the distinctive white V-shaped mark on its chest. If you hear a sound resembling a dog's bark, it may indicate that a black bear is fighting, likely over food or territory. In such a situation, it is crucial to stay away and leave the area immediately!
