By MOOK Travel Life Network, reported by Chen Guanxin
The 2014 New Taipei City Firefly Banquet event was launched on the evening of the 26th with its first ecological guided tour at the Yushan Ecological Trail in Sanxia District and the Jingting area in Pingxi District. Liao Jung-ching, Director of the New Taipei City Government Agriculture Bureau, said that April to May is the perfect season when fireflies dance romantically, embellishing the mountains and forests. In areas with well-preserved environments and minimal light pollution, fireflies can be spotted. Therefore, the Agriculture Bureau’s “2014 New Taipei City Firefly Banquet Event” also recommends 42 firefly-watching secret spots in Sanxia, Tucheng, Xindian, Wulai, Shiding, Pinglin, Shuangxi, Ruifang, Xizhi, Pingxi, Shimen, and Wanli. Firefly enthusiasts can plan a visit during April to May to track these glowing creatures.
Fireflies display their enchanting dance at night. (Photo source / New Taipei City Government Agriculture Bureau)
To welcome the midsummer night firefly-watching journey, many people visit the nearby Sanxia Sanchongyong Old Street during the day. The Changfu Bridge leading to the Kuan-yin Temple of Clear Water is also a cultural heritage site. Meanwhile, the lush greenery of Jingting Coal Mine Park in Pingxi is covered with intertwined tree roots that form unique natural artworks, making them a must-capture scene for visitors. Strolling through the coal mine park feels like stepping back a hundred years to old Jingting, attracting both adults and children to stop and take photos. Following the guidance of the Agriculture Bureau’s tour leaders to search for the shimmering glow of fireflies, the fresh air after the rain makes the firefly activity even more vibrant.
The Agriculture Bureau also reminds firefly watchers to avoid using flashlights or other lighting devices as much as possible. If necessary to illuminate the path with a flashlight, please cover the light source with dark-colored cellophane in advance to reduce light pollution and avoid disturbing the fireflies. For clothing, it is recommended to wear lightweight, comfortable, and nature-toned long-sleeved shirts and pants to prevent mosquito bites. Photography enthusiasts should never use flash when taking pictures of fireflies. Camera tripods and other equipment should be placed carefully. Whether taking photos or watching fireflies, do not approach their habitats, avoid trampling on grass and damaging vegetation, and never attempt to capture or harm fireflies for the perfect shot. Let’s all work together to protect the natural ecology of fireflies. Detailed information about recommended firefly-watching spots for the “2014 New Taipei City Firefly Banquet Event” can be found on the official website of the New Taipei City Government Agriculture Bureau.
● Taipei City Firefly Secret Spots》》
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