Southern Taiwan Science Park Phase IV habitat planning focuses on owlet conservation

During a scoping meeting for the Southern Taiwan Science Park (STSP) Phase IV, environmental advocates and local residents expressed support for decisions to avoid developing approximately 11 hectares of critical habitat for the endangered collared owlet.

Professor Lin Chien-cheng and community members proposed the creation of a ‘Collared Owlet Great Prairie’ by integrating the 110-hectare Shenkengzi Farm with 42 hectares of former Taiwan Sugar Corporation pastureland. This would create a continuous habitat of over 150 hectares to prevent ecological fragmentation.

The proposal aims to transform the planned 250-hectare industrial zone into an ‘ecological science park’ that balances industrial growth with biodiversity. Advocates are calling on the National Science and Technology Council to provide a formal report on habitat integration and to establish the Shalun Ecological Natural Park to ensure long-term governance and environmental education.