Zhuan'an River Estuary Introduction
The Zhuanxi River Estuary Wetland has a vast area with habitats that include rice fields, fish ponds, and freshwater marshes, making aquaculture prevalent here, mainly featuring sea cucumbers, eels, and grass shrimp. The wide, diverse, and tranquil wetland environment, combined with the abundance of fish and shrimp brought in by the tides, has made this area a hidden habitat for birds. During autumn and winter, when migratory birds travel south, various kinds of water birds, numbering in the thousands, stop here to rest or spend the winter. You can witness these elegant water birds strolling and foraging, as well as the beautiful reflection of the layered mountains on the water surface—making it a perfect spot for birdwatching. However, in recent years, the ecological system has changed, and bird populations are not as abundant as before, prompting reflection on the importance of cherishing nature. Additionally, the sandy beach at the Zhuanxi River mouth not only provides opportunities for birdwatching and enjoying the scenery but also showcases traditional Yilan folk activities—net fishing. Net fishing involves fishermen using bamboo rafts to haul nets along the coast during the fish catch season to gather schools of fish, which people on the shore then help pull in. Participants in net fishing are allowed to share the catch. Furthermore, this location is also a great spot for watching the sunrise, as the sun rises in the early morning, casting warm yellow light over the river surface. Many photographers specifically come here to capture this serene beauty.
