NTCAM Ecology

NTCAM Ecology [The script of this episode] Welcome to the New Taipei City Art Museum Park! The New Taipei City Art Museum (NTCAM) sits at the meeting point of the Yingge and Dahan rivers, nestled in the fertile Sanying Reclaimed Land, known for its rich ecology. Enveloped by greenery, this area is the habitat of a wide array of birds, butterflies, and plants, forming a distinctive ecosystem. Here, you will have a chance to spot some fascinating species. In the Sanying Spatial Art District, you can find the charming Black Bulbul, adorned with shiny black feathers and a bright red beak and feet. These social birds enjoy hanging out in groups and are known for their unique chatter that sounds like xiao-qi-gui, xiao-qi-gui, which means penny-pincher. Let’s not forget the Oriental magpie, or Pica serica. They usually show up alone or in small groups, and are famous for their chests and bellies, which are covered with white feathers as the rest of their bodies are in striking black. Easy to spot with their contrasting colors, they are often seen as a delightful symbol of good fortune. Apart from the birds, this area is also a wonderful paradise for butterflies, in particular, the enchanting Purple Crow—a special species you might catch a glimpse of while strolling by the river. When the sunlight dances off its wings, they shimmer in shades of soft purple and bright blue, creating a magical glow. A rare butterfly in Taiwan, the Purple Crow embarks on a long migration during the winter, making your encounter with it all the more precious. The riverbed in the park is home to a variety of native plants that attract insects and birds. One notable find is the Yellow Water Lily. This unique aquatic plant can only be found in Taiwan, and plays a vital role in providing a habitat for many species. You can also see the Chinaberry tree in the park. In autumn and winter, they bear golden fruits, and come spring, they are covered with fragrant purple flowers, which are a favorite among Taiwan barbets and light-vented bulbuls. Now, let’s take a moment, and listen to the lovely birds singing and watch the butterflies dancing in the air, as we take in the harmony of nature and art! -- Hosting provided by SoundOn