Migratory birds gather at Hsinchu wetland ahead of northward migration

候鳥在北遷前聚集在新竹濕地

TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Flocks of migratory birds, including the protected black-faced spoonbill, have recently appeared at Xiangshan Wetland, attracting birdwatchers and photography enthusiasts eager to document the arrival of migration season.

The Hsinchu City Government said in a press release Sunday that ongoing efforts to promote wetland conservation, ecological education, and sustainable tourism have contributed to the area’s growing popularity. A trail within Xiangshan Wetland was recently selected as one of Taiwan’s top 100 tourist attractions, per CNA.

The city government said the wetland provides a safe and comfortable observation area for wildlife while adhering to environmentally friendly principles that allow visitors to experience the ecosystem without disturbing natural habitats.

Officials said numerous migratory bird species are gathering at the wetland in preparation for their northward migration. Species spotted include black-faced spoonbills, avocets, little grebes, northern shovelers, Eurasian teal, northern pintails, black-winged stilts, common sandpipers, and the rare spoon-billed sandpiper.

According to city officials, visitors along the wetland’s crab-watching trail can observe migratory birds flying low, resting, and foraging at close range. During low tide, large numbers of fiddler crabs can also be seen feeding across the mudflats.

Visitors can also explore the area via a 17-kilometer coastal bicycle path, combining birdwatching, crab watching, and cycling while experiencing the natural scenery of Hsinchu’s coastline, per CNA.

Xiangshan Wetland, designated a nationally important wetland, contains abundant fish, shrimp, and shellfish resources that support a diverse ecosystem. Authorities urged visitors to follow ecological protection guidelines, avoid entering mudflat areas, and refrain from disturbing wildlife to help preserve the habitat.