TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Jacana Ecological Education Park has completed its annual summer survey of the bird population in Tainan, recording 1,664 pheasant-tailed jacanas, a modest increase of five birds compared to last year. 

The survey was conducted from July 21 to Aug. 3. It found that Typhoon Gaemi damaged numerous pheasant-tailed jacana nests and eggs. 

The birds primarily nest in water chestnut fields. They have also shown adaptability by raising chicks in varied habitats such as rice paddies and grasslands.

The combination of scorching temperatures and frequent downpours has harmed water chestnut crops, affecting breeding grounds. This will possibly impact the upcoming winter survey.

Volunteers from the park, National Chiayi University, and birdwatchers across Taiwan participated in the survey. Teams surveyed designated areas each morning and submitted data online.

Guantian in the south of the country remains the birds’ primary habitat, accounting for 69% of the nation's total population. Other significant habitats include Xiaying and Madou, which account for 15% and 8% of the total population respectively. 

Breeding birds were found in Liouying, Guiren, Shanshang, Lioujia, Baihe, and Syuejia. Traces were also observed in Sinying and Aninan.