Record 13 "mythical birds" spotted in Matsu – birdwatching countdown begins

▲ Record number of terns observed in Matsu, the second from the right is the black-naped tern. (Photo provided by Wang Shuqin)

Reported by Chen Ziying / Comprehensive report

Every summer, the arrival of terns to Matsu is one of the most anticipated events and a thrill for bird lovers. Today (13), the Forestry Bureau announced that this year’s bird population is excellent, with as many as 13 black-naped terns—known as the "mythical birds"—being observed.

The Forestry Bureau stated that the black-naped tern, once believed to have a global population of fewer than 50, has been continuously monitored and studied within the Matsu Tern Conservation Area over the years. Decoy models have also been used to attract real birds to suitable breeding islands. Survey records up to the end of July show a total of 75 adult birds and 24 chicks across three breeding sites, including Matsu and Zhejiang in mainland China. In Matsu alone, there were 13 adult birds and 4 chicks, indicating strong breeding success and a record-high bird population, with the total population expected to soon exceed 100.


▲ Excellent bird population recorded at Matsu's Tiejian Fort this year. (Photo provided by Wang Shuqin)

Wang Yuansong, leader of the Matsu tern-watching boat tours organized by Longfu Travel Agency, said that an estimated 3,000 to 4,000 great crested terns were observed on Tiejian Island this year, and up to 13 black-naped terns—the “mythical birds”—were seen there at the same time, indicating very favorable bird conditions. He added that typhoons before chick fledging could pose a risk of nest abandonment. Although Typhoon Soudelor recently hit Taiwan, most chicks have now learned to fly, and due to Tiejian Island’s slightly higher elevation, birds had places to take shelter from the waves, helping them survive.

Wang Yuansong added that the tern-watching season is nearing its end. Starting August 17, Matsu tern-watching boats will operate daily, with afternoon extra trips available for larger groups, subject to daily sea conditions.

2015 Ecological Tern-Watching & Marine Tour of Matsu
Event Period:August 17 to August 31, departure daily in the morning depending on weather and sea conditions, with a voyage duration of approximately 1.5 hours.
Event Content:Onboard guides will first introduce various migratory birds and their characteristics through photos. At a distance of 100 meters from the tern conservation area, participants can use binoculars to observe the terns. On the return route, explanations about Matsu’s unique sea erosion landforms, traditional Minnan-style architecture, and settlements will be provided.
Event Registration:Register at the passenger service counter in the waiting hall at Fugang Harbor, Nangan, starting at 9:00 AM (registration and payment can be done on-site or by calling Longfu Travel Agency at 0836-55661; each trip accommodates a maximum of 45 people, first-come, first-served).
Event Fee:NT$250 per person