Explore the Homes of Fireflies in the Wild – Taichung Dakeng Firefly-Watching Event Kicks Off on the 18th

▲ Taiwan enters peak firefly-watching season (Photo / Provided by Taichung City Government Tourism and Travel Bureau)

By Travel Center / Comprehensive Report

Firefly-watching events across Taiwan are kicking off one after another. Starting from the 18th, the Taichung Scenic Area Administration and the Taiwan Purple Crow Butterfly Conservation Association will host firefly-watching and summer butterfly-appreciation activities in the Dakeng Butterfly and Firefly Conservation Area—all completely free of charge. The public is invited to come and experience the day-and-night charm of nature.

The Taichung Scenic Area Administration stated that from the 18th to May 2nd, over three consecutive Saturdays, firefly ecological guided tour activities will be held in the Dakeng Butterfly and Firefly Conservation Area. These activities will not only include basic knowledge introductions about fireflies and rhinoceros beetles, as well as the release of firefly larvae, but also take participants deep into their habitats to explore the homes of “fire gold aunts” (a local term for fireflies). The event will run from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM every Saturday.

Considering the ecological carrying capacity of the activity site, each of the three firefly-guided tour sessions is limited to 50 participants. Members of the public need to register online (http://www.purplebutterfly.org.tw) starting at 7:00 AM on the Monday of each event week, until all slots are filled.

The Taichung Scenic Area Administration also reminds visitors that the firefly conservation area is a manually maintained space with limited area. On the days of the event (April 18, April 25, and May 2), those coming up the mountain to watch fireflies are advised not to park in the camping area after 6:00 PM. Please wear long pants and sports shoes as much as possible, cover your flashlight with red cellophane, and leave only memories, not litter.

Firefly and Butterfly-Watching Activities at Dakeng Butterfly and Firefly Conservation Area

Firefly-Watching Activity: Three sessions on April 18, April 25, and May 2, from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
Butterfly-Watching Activity: Seven sessions on July 5, July 12, July 19, July 26, August 2, August 9, and August 16, from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
Number of spots per session: Limited to 50 participants. Each person will receive one souvenir and one meal box.
Registration Method: Online registration only. Registration for each session opens at 7:00 AM on the Monday of the corresponding event week.