TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taipei becomes the first city in Taiwan to eradicate the invasive African Sacred Ibis (埃及聖䴉), officials announced Monday (Dec. 15). The Taipei City Animal Protection Office (台北市動保處) confirmed officials have removed 274 birds since 2020, eliminating an ecological threat posed by the species. The African Sacred Ibis lacks natural predators in Taiwan and has strong reproductive capabilities, making it a significant threat to native biodiversity. The achievement marks a milestone in Taiwan's efforts to protect native ecosystems from invasive species.
The Animal Protection Office, collaborating with the Forestry and Nature Conservation Agency (農業部林業及自然保育署), Taiwan's national forestry authority, has established monitoring and management mechanisms in high-risk areas since 2020. The office successfully eliminated all breeding records and congregation sites of the African Sacred Ibis as of Tuesday (Dec. 31, 2024). Officials described the eradication as a significant victory in preserving Taiwan's ecosystems and biodiversity.
A spokesperson for the Taipei City Animal Protection Office emphasized the importance of this achievement, stating that it "showcases the success of cross-agency cooperation between central and local governments and systematic prevention efforts." The office remains vigilant, planning to enhance dynamic tracking and monitoring to prevent future invasions. Officials aim to ensure the sustainability of their efforts through continued surveillance of potential entry points for the invasive species.
The Animal Protection Office organizes annual courses and training on monitoring and controlling invasive species to maintain these gains. The office urges the public to refrain from releasing or abandoning animals, which can disrupt local ecosystems. This proactive educational approach aims to foster a community that is aware of the ecological impacts of invasive species and is committed to environmental protection. ◼