The Taiwan black bear, known for the white mark on its chest, is one of Taiwan's most famous species. These bears live in high mountain forests, where they eat fruit, nuts, and sometimes honey from wild hives. With their strong paws and sharp claws, they can climb trees easily. A mother bear usually gives birth to one or two cubs, which stay with her for about two years. Sadly, the number of bears has dropped because people have cut down forests for timber. Today, devoted scientists are working hard to protect this shy beast and its home.

Last spring, I spent a weekend at my grandfather's farm in the countryside. Early in the morning, I walked across a meadow full of wild flowers, while white blossoms were falling from the trees like snow. Near the barn, I noticed a spider web shining with drops of water. Grandfather showed me a nest where three chicks had just hatched. Their soft yellow feathers looked like tiny balls of cotton. Later, we watched an old bull resting under a tree, waving its tail to keep the flies away. Before I left, Grandfather cut a piece of sugar cane for me to chew on the train.