Wusao Harbor Wetland Bird Sanctuary Introduction
Wuwugang, 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 sediment buildup at its mouth, the water could not flow out, hence the name "Wuwugang." This 102-hectare wetland is rich in aquatic flora and fauna, and being on the migratory route of wintering birds in autumn and winter, it attracts many migratory birds seeking food and rest. In 1993, it officially became Taiwan's first waterbird sanctuary. The vast wintering stopover for geese and ducks has recorded over 170 species of birds, including waterbirds and landbirds. From November each year, thousands of geese and ducks begin to appear, with the most numerous being the Eurasian Teal, followed by the Northern Shoveler and the Northern Pintail. Various waders and shorebirds can be found in nearby rice paddies and fish ponds, while common land birds inhabit the forests and dry fields. The mouth of the Xincheng River is known for rare migratory and vagrant birds, making this area a birdwatching paradise. The best birdwatching season is from October to February of the following year, during which many bird enthusiasts, unbothered by the cold winds, come to observe and photograph with professional equipment. The management office has set up birdwatching platforms, observation trails, and birdwatching huts in the sanctuary, allowing visitors to stroll and search for wild birds at a leisurely pace. For those who enjoy capturing the elegant and charming poses of waterbirds with a camera, the birdwatching cabins offer a quiet spot to wait for the perfect shot. 【Note】For visitors who are less familiar with migratory birds, there are enthusiastic volunteers from the Wuwugang Cultural and Educational Promotion Association available for guided tours and explanations, which are highly encouraged to take advantage of.
