Taipei Travel

As we approach summer, the warm weather also heralds the beginning of a natural nighttime light show featuring fireflies at Zhinan Creek in Wenshan District!
 
The Geotechnical Engineering Office (GEO) will be organizing free walking tours taking participants to visit the firefly habitat during their breeding season, typically lasting from mid-April to early May. This year, the tours will take place respectively at 6 PM on April 16 and April 23.

The firefly spotting tour is completely free of charge. However, to limit the size of the tour group to minimize impact on the ecosystem, registration is required for those interested in joining. Sign-up will be accepted between noon of April 1 and noon of April 5. A lottery will be held if the number of applicants exceed the number of openings available. The list of tour participants will be posted on the agency’s website at 4 PM on April 8.
 
Chief Chu of the agency’s Mud/Rockslide Control Section pointed out that the mountainous region around Caonan Bridge along Zhinan Creek boasts much rain and fog. These conditions make it an ideal habitat for the reproduction of fireflies and a great place for firefly spotting.
 
In recent years, a heightened awareness on environmental protection and soil conservation issues enables the agency to complete the dredging of the creek. This not only support the diversification of wildlife in the vicinity, but also helps transform the area into an ideal destination for leisure and environmental education.
 
Tour guide Lin Wei-hung reminds those who plan to visit Zhinan Creek at night to wear light-weighted, long-sleeved, and warm clothing, as the temperature in the mountains can drop significantly at night and frequented by mosquitos and other pests. Also, visitors should remember to point their flashlights towards the ground and remain quiet to avoid disturbing the gentle insects.
 
Tour Meeting Point: Caonan Bridge Plaza (Zhinan Road Section 3, Wenshan District)
Registration Website (Chinese): Link