The plentiful marine products of the Matsu Islands not only attract aficionados from all around, but also the sea birds that soar in the sky overhead as they search for the small fish, like anchovies and herring, that constitute their primary diet. Each year these graceful guests fly in and nest on the uninhabited reefs of Matsu. As a result, in May 2000 the Matsu Islands Tern Refuge was established. The refuge comprises Shuangzi Reef in Dongyin Township, the Sanlian Islets, Zhongdao, Tiejian, Baimiao, and Jinyu in Beigan Township, the Liuquan Reef in Nangan Township, and Sheshan in Juguang Township. The protected birds include the Bridled Tern, the Black-napped Tern, the Roseate Tern, the Crested Tern, the Black-tailed Tern, the Reef Egret, and the Fork-tailed Swift. The best time for tern-watching in Matsu is from June to September. Whether it’s taking the bird-watching boat and admiring the scenery of Matsu and the islands as they soar up in the air or taking a leisurely walk along the harbor and underground tunnels to enjoy watching the terns from a unique vantage point, both are wonderful excursions not to be missed while visiting Matsu in the summer. In addition to the bird-watching excursions, you can also enjoy Beigan’s Mt. Da’ao, Qinbi Village, and a magnificent coast from the water, and along the way get a great view of Matsu’s unique local landscape and the military fortifications that date from an earlier time. A series of activities allow visitors to savor the unique military culture of Matsu and at the same time combine a trip rich in ecological education with total relaxation where they can experience firsthand the beauty of the place, enjoy the local culture, the unique “battleground” environment, and the rich ecology.
Tern-Watching Tour
Tern-Watching Tour
Level：International
Address：Jhong Islet, Beigan, Lienchiang CountyLienchiang County  
Tel：886-836-25631#85
Website：http://www.matsu-nsa.gov.tw
Host：Matsu National Scenic Area Administration, Tourism Bureau, MOTC