Sign up now for a weekend bird-watching trip to the Aogu Wetland Ecological Experience

By Li Xinyi, compiled and reported

The Aogu Wetland is located within the Dongshi Farm, rich in fish, shrimp, and shellfish. In recent years, with the community’s growing conservation awareness, it has attracted countless winter migratory birds. In the past two years, black-faced spoonbills have also spent the winter here. The Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan has designated the Aogu Wetland as an important wildlife habitat. Want to explore this precious ecological environment? Starting December 10, the Chiayi Forest District Office is holding holiday bird-watching and eco-tourism experience activities, where you can visit migratory birds and enjoy local cuisine—for just NT$300 per person.

The Aogu Wetland Forest Park spans from the Beigang River to the Liujiao Drain, covering an area of approximately 1,458 hectares. The park features diverse geographical landscapes including wetlands, sandbars, fish farms, afforestation areas, and agricultural zones. In the cold winter months, northern migratory birds such as northern pintails, cormorants, and red-throated pipits bring vibrancy to the wetland. Coupled with nearby communities, the Port Temple, and Dongshi Fishing Port, the area is rich in cultural and local fishing village industry characteristics—making it a great place to experience fishing village life.

The bird-watching and eco-tourism activities organized by the Chiayi Forest District Office feature locally sourced, eco-conscious meals prepared by community mothers, and take visitors deep into the Aogu Wetland to observe migratory birds from afar. The fee is only NT$300 per person (including transportation, guide fees, lunch, and accident insurance), with seven sessions available: 12/10, 12/24, 1/7, 2/4, 2/11, 2/18, and 2/25. On-site registration is now open. For inquiries, call 05-2787-006 ext. 213.