Green Island’s Firefly Explosion: A 2-Kilometer “Starry Path” Without Streetlights

▲In recent years, Green Island has seen a surge in firefly numbers, forming a 2-kilometer “Starry Path”! (Photo provided by Liang Zhiyi)

Reported by Lin Yuling / Interview and Coverage

Without any special conservation efforts, Green Island’s fireflies have naturally surged in numbers over the past two years, creating a 2-kilometer-long “Green Island Starry Path!” The fireflies twinkle among the bushes along the mountain road, creating a very romantic scene. It’s reported that there used to be only a few fireflies here. The township office originally planned to install streetlights for safety, but ultimately did not, allowing the fireflies to reproduce successfully under light-free conditions. Local residents excitedly say“Luckily, they didn’t install the streetlights back then!”They also urge visitorsnot to ride in with their motorcycle headlights onand especially not to damage the environment or harm the fireflies. By walking slowly, you can enjoy the beauty of the sparkling fireflies.

▲A large number of fireflies dance along the light-pollution-free mountain road, creating a truly romantic scene. (Photo provided by Liang Zhiyi)

This “Green Island Starry Path” is located along the circumferential road near Guanyin Cave, roughly between the Sika Deer Park and the area close to the Waterworks. In recent years, around April, the number of fireflies has dramatically increased. Twinkling among the treetops along the mountain road, the scene is both magical and romantic. It’s understood that the township office once considered installing streetlights here for safety reasons. However, local residents, scholars, and elders opposed the plan, and in the end, no lights were installed. This allowed the fireflies to remain and reproduce successfully, forming a natural “firefly-viewing starry path.”

However, photographer Liang Zhiyi mentioned that there were more fireflies last year than this year. “I kind of regret posting the photos on Facebook too early.” Because many people rushed to see them but failed to properly maintain the fireflies’ ecological environment.Some businesses even aimed to please tourists by continuously shining flashlights or giving talks without turning off their car lights or parking—these light sources all harm the survival of fireflies.So, to be honest, “there aren’t as many this year as last year.” Recently, some university students were even seen trying to “package” fireflies in plastic bags—a behavior that not only fails to preserve their beauty but also harms them.

▲Liang Zhiyi shared photos saying “there were more last year,” hoping everyone can work together to protect the fireflies’ ecological environment. (Photo provided by Liang Zhiyi)

Local ecologist Monster explained that there are about three species of Luciola fireflies on Green Island. Their glowing is part of their mating signals—the flashes are frequent but don’t last long. By late April, their numbers gradually decrease. Since the “Green Island Starry Path” has no streetlights, although visitors are advised not to go there on their own, it’s safer to be led by locals or tour operators. Still, Liang Zhiyi and residents urge:“When viewing fireflies, try to park your vehicle and turn off the headlights. Don’t ride or drive into the area, and avoid shining flashlights or other lights at the fireflies.”

Some conscientious business operators hope to establish designated firefly-viewing walking zones, where from 6 to 8 p.m. during the season, all vehicles are prohibited. This would not only protect the fireflies but also make the experience safer for visitors, giving Green Island another attractive seasonal attraction.

▲%The number of fireflies has decreased this year compared to last, but thanks to the actions of the public, it's still quite impressive. (Photo provided by Liang Zhiyi)

▲Local residents urge: When viewing fireflies, try not to drive or ride in, and keep your vehicle lights off to reduce light pollution and protect their habitat. (Photo provided by Liang Zhiyi)

【5 Firefly-Viewing Tips】
1. Wear long pants and long-sleeved clothing, and apply mosquito repellent if necessary to avoid bites.
2. Walk within designated areas to ensure safety.
3. Carry a flashlight covered with “red cellophane”: A flashlight can help you avoid stepping into holes or encountering snakes, and red light causes the least disturbance to nocturnal fireflies. But aside from safety or essential observation needs, try to keep it off—avoid keeping it on throughout your walk, as light pollution may harm the fireflies.
4. Remind yourself to “minimize disturbance to the fireflies”: By not startling them, you’ll more easily observe their glowing dance, and you’ll also avoid affecting others’ experience.
5. Don’t chase or catch fireflies: Fireflies are very timid. Chasing them will only scare them away, and poor visibility at night could lead to accidents due to reckless running or jumping. Additionally, fireflies are important ecological indicators and a treasured part of the community’s shared heritage—so if you love them, don’t harm them.