Meet the Fireflies at Zhinan Creek in Wenshan District – Free Guided Tours Available

By MOOK Scenic Spots Family Travel Life Network Editorial Team
 

As the weather gradually warms up, bringing a strong sense of summer, the period from April to May each year is the best season for firefly watching. Want to wander through a night glowing with fireflies and learn more about their secrets? The Taipei City Government’s Department of Urban Development has specially launched free ecological firefly tours, inviting visitors to gather at Zhinan Creek in Wenshan District to admire the romantic “firefly river” of “fire gold aunties” (a local term for fireflies).

Fireflies have very high requirements for their living environment and mostly inhabit mid-to-low altitude mountainous areas free from pesticide use and light pollution. They are often regarded as indicator species of ecological health. Zhinan Creek in Wenshan District boasts a naturally pristine environment with clear water quality — the ideal habitat for fireflies. As summer approaches, you can see fireflies dancing all over the hillsides, and it’s also easy to spot native freshwater fish, shrimp, frogs, and other aquatic creatures along the creek. Especially near No. 200, Section 3, Zhinan Road, where the surroundings are clean and the environment remains in its primitive state, making it suitable for fireflies. Each year during the firefly season, the city government turns off the streetlights at the trailhead for a month to help the light-sensitive fireflies mate successfully. In addition to fireflies, the area is also home to many different species of frogs. Visitors are warmly welcome to come explore and go on a treasure hunt.

To promote ecological conservation, the Department of Urban Development will hold a free ecological guided tour on the evening of April 25. Professional guides will lead the public to explore the hidden world of fireflies and get to know the most primitive lives of these adorable creatures. There will also be a prize quiz. Additionally, visitors planning to go firefly watching are reminded that nighttime temperatures in the mountains are lower and mosquitoes are abundant. It is recommended to wear light long-sleeved clothing, avoid wearing perfume or using excessive insect repellent, as these may deter fireflies. Moreover, fireflies are sensitive to light. When using flashlights for illumination, remember to cover them with red cellophane, and avoid using flash when taking photos to prevent light damage. Try to keep noise levels low during the firefly viewing experience, and do not attempt to catch the fireflies.