Watch terns on the sea in Matsu

The Matsu Islands are situated to the northwest of the Taiwan Strait, facing the Minjiang and Lianjiang Estuaries. It is an important rest stop on the migratory route of East Asian birds. June to October every year is the best time to watch the terns in Matsu.

Matsu boasts rich ecological resources and great bird diversity. There are 178 species of birds recorded in its four townships and five islands. Among them, 28 are protected species. There is even a chance to spot the critically endangered species: the mythical Chinese crested tern, adding a mysterious element to the tern watching trip.

To protect its rich bird resources, Matsu has established the following eight tern protected areas: Shuangzijiao in Dongyin Township; Sanlianyu, Zhongdao, Tiejiandao, Baimiao, and Jinyu in Beigan Township; Liuquanjiao in Nangan Township; and Sheshan in Juguang Township. The buffer zone is the sea area extending 100 meters from the low water line to the sea. Sheshan is where you can watch terns at close range. When summer comes, if you overlook Sheshan from the bird-watching pavilion on Kunqiu Beach, you will have a chance to see roseate tern, bridled tern, black-naped tern, etc. It is an excellent bird watching spot passed by word of mouth among birders.

Terns are very sensitive to noise. When watching terns, please speak softly and refrain from making loud noises so as not to affect the tern’s roosting.