Wusanto Waterbird Reserve Introduction
Wuwei Harbor, despite its name suggesting a port, is actually a coastal wetland. It was originally a river located in the southeastern part of the Lanyang Plain, but due to siltation at its outlet, the water could not be drained, hence the name "Wuwei Harbor." This wetland, covering an area of 102 hectares, is rich in aquatic flora and fauna. Being situated on the migratory route of autumn and winter birds, it attracts many wintering birds that come here to feed and rest. In 1993, it officially became Taiwan's first waterbird reserve. The expansive wintering stopover has recorded over 170 species of birds, including both aquatic and terrestrial birds. Starting from November, thousands of geese and ducks gradually appear, with the most numerous being the Common Teal, followed by the Northern Shoveler and other ducks. Nearby rice paddies and fish ponds host various species of sandpipers and plovers, while common land birds can be found in nearby forests and dry fields. The XinCheng River mouth often sees rare migratory and lost birds, enriching the avian diversity and making this a birdwatching paradise. The best time for birdwatching is from October to February of the following year, during which many bird enthusiasts brave the cold winds with professional equipment to observe and photograph the birds. The management office has also set up birdwatching platforms, observation trails, and birdwatching huts within the reserve, allowing visitors to leisurely search for signs of wild birds. If you enjoy capturing the elegant and charming postures of waterbirds with your lens, you can wait quietly in the birdwatching hut for the perfect opportunity to photograph. **Note:** For visitors who are less familiar with migratory birds, there are enthusiastic volunteers from the Wuwei Harbor Cultural and Educational Promotion Association providing guided tours, which are highly recommended.
