From April 1990 to March 1991, at the New Central Cross-Island Highway and Yushan Forest Road the mark-recapture method was used to study the Johnstone’s Bush Robin (Tarsiger johnstoniae). Reproductive behavior, population estimation, and the positions of nests were also recorded. In addition, the breeding and non-breeding seasons were noted, and a more in-depth comparison of the males and females was conducted.

The results of the mark-recapture method showed that the size of males (n=10) was greater than that of females (n=7), except for the beak. The males who were subjected to the mark-recapture method returned to their original habitat in the second year, and had a fixed home range during the breeding season. The females built their nests in cliff caves. Of the seven types of cliffs in the sample plot, the dwarf bamboo earth bank had the largest number of nests. Females are responsible for brooding, and both females and males share responsibility for feeding, cleaning, and warning. Factors influencing reproductive success include the distance of the nest from the road, with little influence noted from other factors. Females don’t make calls during non-breeding seasons, and the warning calls of males during breeding seasons are very obvious, but there is little seasonal difference for normal calls. During the reproductive season (July), the Johnstone’s bush robin appears in higher altitudes during non-breeding seasons (January).