Cat Islet Introduction
Miao Island is located 16 kilometers southwest of Wangan and 8 kilometers south of Huayu, belonging to Huayu Village in Wang'an Township. It includes both Great and Little Miao Islands as well as the surrounding reefs. Both islands are formed of basalt and are surrounded by steep cliffs, making climbing difficult. Great Miao Island is a giant rock formation that rises from the sea, with an elevation of about 70 to 79 meters, making it the highest point in the Penghu archipelago. The island features well-developed coastal erosion landforms, with many sea caves around it, and a massive sea arch at the northern cliffs. On the eastern side, an eroded platform emerges at low tide, revealing several holes in the rock. Little Miao Island is located to the east of Great Miao Island and has an even steeper terrain, with a volcanic debris ridge connecting the two islands at low tide. In local lore, there's a saying in Penghu: "Bird Island has no birds, Cat Island has no cats," as Miao Island is named for its shape resembling two crouching cats rather than for an abundance of cats; it's actually an uninhabited island. However, many migratory birds reside here, particularly during the summer when terns choose the remote and rugged Miao Island for nesting, primarily the White-faced Tern and the Brown Noddy, with around 3,000 to 5,000 nesting on Miao Island each year. Miao Island is the main area to see Brown Noddies in Penghu, while sightings are rare in northern waters. In 1991, the Penghu County Government designated Great and Little Miao Islands as the "Miao Island Seabird Protection Area," which encompasses the land and a 100-meter area extending into the sea. Without special permission, landing on the islands is not allowed; however, visitors can choose to take a boat to appreciate the beautiful sight of terns flying in the surrounding area.
