A massive firefly outbreak at the end of spring! Free firefly viewing in hidden streams

Text by MOOK Scenic Spots Family, compiled and reported
 
The weather is warming, summer is approaching, and during the transition between spring and summer in April and May, it's the season when adult fireflies become active. The Taipei City Government has launched a series of free stream firefly-viewing eco-tours, inviting travelers to enjoy the romantic sight of fireflies dancing in the air.

From April 14 to May 5 this year, the Taipei City Government has collaborated across multiple departments to launch a series of Firefly Season activities, including firefly tours, parent-child experience camps, concerts, lectures, picnics, and short film screenings. The goal is not only to provide travelers with rich knowledge about insects and conservation concepts but also to encourage citizens to care about the living environment we share.

The first event is the “2019 Firefly Love Camp” held at Taipei Zoo on April 14. By observing fireflies raised by conservationists up close, participants can learn about their bioluminescence, how to distinguish between males and females, and identification techniques—gaining valuable insights into these fascinating creatures.

The Taipei City Government has once again introduced a free stream firefly-viewing eco-tour service, scheduled for two days: April 27 and May 4. The tour will take place along the Zhinan Stream in Wenshan District, Taipei City. With its natural surroundings, clear waters, and mountains all around, Zhinan Stream enjoys a climate that is often windless and misty year-round, preserving a forest-like environment that supports a significant population of fireflies—making it a popular firefly-viewing spot in Wenshan.

In recent years, through partial stream restoration efforts that balance soil and water conservation with ecological protection, a habitat suitable for fireflies has been created. Zhinan Stream boasts rich and diverse surrounding ecosystems, serving functions such as environmental education and leisure recreation, making it an ideal location for ecological learning.