Coexisting with Nature: Campus Ecological Initiatives Create Urban Wildlife Habitats
The campus has become a “bio-friendly microhabitat”: A white-headed bulbul has chosen to nest in the campus corridor, embodying Sustainable Development Goal 15, “Life on Land.”
In the potted plants of the administrative building’s campus corridor, baby white-headed bulbuls and their nest were discovered, clearly indicating that the campus space has transformed into a bio-friendly microhabitat. This highlights the potential for human living environments and nature to coexist harmoniously. Even within artificially constructed spaces, such as small green corners like potted plants, effective habitats for wildlife to live and breed can still be provided, further supporting the development of local biodiversity. This is not just a singular event; it reflects the long-term accumulation of efforts in campus greening and environmental enhancement, allowing white-headed bulbuls to safely nurture their young on campus. It also gives students and faculty the opportunity to observe and experience nature up close, understand the living habits and ecological needs of birds, and learn how to respect and safely share living spaces with wildlife.
This case reminds us that both urban environments and campus settings bear the responsibility of protecting biodiversity. By continuously enhancing greening efforts, protecting existing ecological resources, and fostering a friendly attitude, we can not only provide habitats for more species but also cultivate the next generation’s awareness and practice of ecology and sustainability. The campus is not just a place for knowledge transfer; it is also a base for deepening life education and environmental education, allowing students and faculty to participate together in maintaining ecological balance and practicing sustainable development in their daily lives.
The documentary “Urban Ranger – Crested Serpent Eagle,” produced in collaboration between the faculty and students of the Department of Life Sciences and the Forestry Bureau, adds a touching chapter to urban ecology. This work breaks away from the traditional narrative style of ecological documentaries that focus on tragedy and environmental destruction, instead showcasing the vitality of the crested serpent eagle in the city with a lively and upbeat rhythm, conveying a positive message about the coexistence of wildlife and urban environments. The documentary not only captures the lifestyle of the crested serpent eagle but also raises awareness of the rich biodiversity that often goes unnoticed in urban areas.
Research shows that in the Taipei metropolitan area, traces of crested serpent eagles nesting can be found in almost every large park. For instance, in Daan Forest Park and even around the ecological pond on our university’s Gongguan campus, sightings of the crested serpent eagle have been recorded, proving that even in highly urbanized environments, there are spaces where wildlife can inhabit and thrive. This resonates with the case of the white-browed sparrow weaver choosing to nest in potted plants on campus, further affirming the potential of campus and urban spaces as wildlife-friendly microhabitats.
