TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — An annual ecological spectacle featuring thousands of cattle egrets flying through the mountains of Chiayi County has begun, with the birds being spotted in large flocks over Taixing Village.
The annual migration takes place from late August through mid-October in the mountainous area of Meishan Township. The Shengmaoshu Creek valley near Taixing Village is a major stop along the birds’ migration route, per CNA.
Chiayi County’s Culture and Tourism Bureau said residents have recently photographed large flocks of cattle egrets flying south along the valley. The birds can appear to circle the mountains in formations resembling a white dragon.
The number of birds is expected to increase around the Mid-Autumn Festival, when thousands of egrets may be seen flying through the valley against the setting sun, creating one of the area’s most striking seasonal natural spectacles.
The bureau recommends birdwatching between 4 and 6 p.m. during the migration season. Several birdwatching locations and local businesses around Taixing Village offer views of the birds, and visitors can combine birdwatching with afternoon tea and other tea-related experiences.
However, officials cautioned that sightings depend on the weather, wind conditions, and the birds’ migration patterns. Large flocks are not guaranteed to appear every day, so visitors are advised to contact local birdwatching sites or businesses before traveling to check the latest conditions, per CNA.
Taixing Village is also known for its mountain tea culture. Local tea farmers and businesses offer meals, afternoon tea, and tea experiences, including opportunities to enjoy tea with views of the surrounding mountains. Visitors can also arrange tea ceremonies or brew their own tea as part of their visit.
The Taixing Waterfall Trail is another attraction in the area. The approximately 700-meter trail passes through a forested valley and features waterfalls, viewing platforms, and tea areas operated by local tea farmers. The Alishan National Scenic Area Headquarters said the waterfalls are particularly impressive during the rainy season.
