By KHT Staff. Image via Forestry and Nature Conservation Agency, Pingtung Branch.
KAOHSIUNG — Forestry officials have urged hikers to stay alert after an automatic infrared camera recorded a Taiwan black bear on Mt. Weiliao (尾寮山), a popular hiking route on the border of Kaohsiung and Pingtung.
The Forestry and Nature Conservation Agency’s Pingtung Branch (林業及自然保育署屏東分署) said the bear was photographed on May 30 between the eastern trailhead and the triangulation point, at about 1,250 meters above sea level.
Mt. Weiliao rises to 1,426.3 meters and sits between Kaohsiung’s Maolin District (茂林區) and Pingtung County’s Sandimen Township (三地門鄉). It is one of Taiwan’s Little Hundred Peaks and is often used by southern Taiwan hikers as a training route before attempting higher mountains.
The agency said Taiwan black bears (台灣黑熊) are a protected species, and their activity range has moved closer to low-elevation mountain areas in recent years. Officials said reduced human disturbance near the eastern trailhead, where construction took place last year, may have allowed the bear to move through the area.
The Pingtung Branch urged hikers to enter mountain areas in groups, avoid hiking alone, and avoid dawn, dusk, or nighttime activity. Hikers should also carry bear bells or other noise-making equipment, and pack out food, kitchen waste, and garbage, the agency said.
If hikers encounter a bear, they should remain calm, keep their distance, and slowly back away while facing the animal. They should not approach the bear or try to get closer for photos, the agency said. Officials said hikers should not play dead or climb trees.
Anyone who sees signs of a Taiwan black bear or needs rescue assistance can contact the Forestry and Nature Conservation Agency at 0800-000-930 or its Pingtung Branch at 08-723-6941.
