Taipei City Government

On February 26th, the Taipei City Animal Protection Office received a report that a Formosan gem-faced civet had accidentally entered the Taipei Metro tracks at Muzha Station and was possibly injured by a train. The TCAPO quickly coordinated with the Taipei Metro company to send personnel to the scene for a joint rescue operation. The gem-faced civet was successfully rescued and transported to a contracted animal hospital for examination and care. The TCAPO reminds the public to report any animals in need of rescue by calling the 1959 animal protection hotline, so that timely assistance can be provided by the office.

On February 26th, staff from the Taipei Metro company discovered a gem-faced civet that had entered the gap between the tracks. As it was during operating hours and uncertain whether the civet was injured, it was the first time the TCAPO received a report regarding the rescue of an animal on the metro tracks. They immediately dispatched personnel to assess the environment and plan the rescue operation. The Taipei Metro company also provided a crane for support. After the personnel from the TCAPO used the crane to investigate the animal's whereabouts on the elevated metro bridge, they found the distressed gem-faced civet hiding in a crevice. To ensure the safety of both the metro trains and the wildlife, the TCAPO used a blowpipe to anesthetize the civet and placed protective sheets on the ground to safely catch the temporarily unconscious animal. The civet was then given proper medical care. Once the gem-faced civet's health was confirmed to be stable, the TCAPO assisted in releasing it back into its natural habitat.

The TCAPO urges the public not to approach trapped wild animals without caution, as most of them are wary of humans. They may act nervously and escape to dangerous areas or even attack humans to protect themselves. Therefore, it is advised to immediately call the 1959 animal protection hotline to report any trapped wildlife. The TCAPO will assess the nature of the wild animals and the geographical environment of the reported location to develop appropriate rescue plans.