Wusao Port Wetland Bird Sanctuary Introduction
Wuwei Harbor, despite its name, is actually a coastal wetland. It was originally a river located southeast of the Lanyang Plain, but due to the siltation of its estuary, the water could not drain, hence the name "Wuwei Harbor." This 102-hectare marshland is rich in aquatic flora and fauna and is located along a migratory route for migratory birds in autumn and winter. It officially became Taiwan's first waterbird sanctuary in 1993. This vast winter refuge for geese and ducks has recorded over 170 species of birds, including both waterbirds and land birds. Starting in November each year, thousands of geese and ducks arrive, with the most numerous being the Eurasian Teal, followed by the Northern Shoveler and the Gadwall. The nearby rice fields and fish ponds are home to various species of shorebirds, while common land birds can be found in forests and dry fields. Rare migratory birds and vagrants are often spotted at the New Town River estuary. The rich diversity and large numbers of birdlife have made this area a birdwatching paradise, with the best birdwatching season typically from October to February of the following year. During this time, many bird enthusiasts brave the cold winds with professional equipment to observe and photograph the birds. The management office has also established birdwatching platforms, observation trails, and birdwatching huts within the sanctuary, allowing visitors to stroll and search for wild bird sightings leisurely. If you enjoy capturing the graceful and adorable poses of waterbirds with your camera, you can quietly wait in the birdwatching cabin for the perfect shooting opportunity. **Tip:** For visitors with limited knowledge of migratory birds, there are dedicated volunteers from the Wuwei Harbor Cultural and Educational Promotion Association who provide guided tours and explanations, so please make good use of this service.
