The
Formosan alpine accentor, which is also known as the "mountain
sparrow," has an average body length of 12-18cm and dark
plumage similar in coloring to the rocky cliffs found throughout
Taiwan's mountainous regions.
Behavior:
Formosan alpine accentors have a monotone voice when moving
or searching for food, but a more mellow voice during their
mating season. An omnivorous bird, their diet consists primarily
of seeds from high mountain plants, pine seeds, grass seeds,
tender shoots, berries, insects, and insect larvae. Unafraid
of humans, Formosan alpine accentors are often seen in small
groups roosting on exposed rocks near the edges of forests
or grasslands, and will search for food in areas where people
are present. Although capable of flying normal distances,
they usually only fly for short distances.
Habitat:
Formosan
alpine accentors are endemic to Taiwan. A terrestrial bird
inhabiting the highest of elevations, they are often found
on exposed ground or on grasslands in mountains located at
altitudes of 3000m and above. In the wintertime, however,
they will usually descend down to broad-leaved forests and
mixed coniferous broad-leaved forests in order to avoid the
bitter cold.
