Two more biotopes I didn't include in the
first TW habitat post.
1. Forest canals
These narrow canals divert water from mountain creeks into agricultural areas. Most of them are made from concrete, but the older ones, made during the Japanese occupation (1895-1945), are crafted from bricks. They're highly protected (for historical reasons and to maintain water quality), so the water is always very clean and crystal-clear, which in turn attracts water snakes, fish, shrimp, anurans, aquatic insects, and the animals that eat them all.
Walking along these gullies at night, you'll find any number of snakes just hanging out on the sides, such as this Bamboo Viper (
Trimeresurus stejnegerii)).
Here's a canal leaving the forest and entering the fields. The tiny speck peeking out above the ridge in the background is
Taipei 101, the world's tallest building until Burj Dubai came along in January
2. Forest Creeks
Although Taiwan is one of the most rainy countries, its water supplies heavily depend on the typhoons that pass through every year. On average, we get about six or seven of these storms, but only one this year (albeit the
nastiest one in 50 years, bringing almost ten feet of rain), so the creeks and streams run low now. That's bad for the ecosystem, but good for herpers: all water-dependent animals and those who prey on them concentrate in and around the few puddles that are left and can be easily spotted.
There are little water sprites in these streams, too...very dangerous. When disturbed, they'll throw pebble-filled Doritos bags and whip you with
spiky rattan vines.
One for the road - Greetings from Yangmingshan National Park!
FAQ
Search
Memberlist
Profile
Login
Register
