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.
