Qigu Black-Faced Spoonbill Reserve is a migratory bird reserve in Qigu District, Tainan, where black-faced spoonbills fly south from the north to overwinter every year between October and March, making it one of the most important wintering grounds for the species worldwide. In the 2025 global synchronized census, the Tainan area (mainly Qigu and Annan) recorded 2,439 birds — the highest count of any county or city in Taiwan.
According to the Chinese Wild Bird Federation's 2025 global synchronized census, the worldwide black-faced spoonbill population reached a record 7,081 birds; Taiwan recorded 4,169, or 58.9% of the global total, and Tainan City (mainly Qigu and Annan) alone recorded 2,439 birds — the highest of any county or city in Taiwan, roughly a third of the world's population. The black-faced spoonbill (Platalea minor) is listed as an endangered species, and its wintering season runs from October to March each year.
What to See at Qigu Black-Faced Spoonbill Reserve
The black-faced spoonbill (Platalea minor) is a globally endangered waterbird with a persistently small population. Qigu is one of its most important wintering sites worldwide; between October and March each year, more than a thousand individuals gather here, accounting for roughly 20% of the global population. The intertidal flats and fish ponds of Qigu provide an abundant food source — the core reason for establishing the reserve.
The reserve has a birdwatching pavilion and an information station; staff provide information during the peak season. Black-faced spoonbills spend most of the day standing still and rest; foraging activity is concentrated in the early morning and evening. Beyond the spoonbills, the fish ponds and wetlands around the reserve attract other migratory birds, including various herons, plovers, and sandpipers, making it an important birdwatching area along Taiwan's southwest coast.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit
Practical Information
Getting There & Timing
- Located in Dingshan Village, Qigu District, about 40 km from central Tainan; driving is recommended, as road conditions are flat along the way.
- The birdwatching season at the reserve runs from October to March each year; staff are usually on-site at the interpretation station during peak season, while facilities are more limited in the off-season.
- Coastal winds can be strong; bring a windproof jacket in winter and check whether the trail is passable given weather conditions.
Nearby Connections
- Qigu Salt Mountain is about 5 km from the reserve — suitable for the same day, combining Qigu's natural and industrial landscapes.
- Taiwan Salt Museum is next to Qigu Salt Mountain and offers a comprehensive presentation of salt industry history — good to visit together.
Source: compiled from contextual facts; for reserve access and birdwatching information, please consult official announcements from the Tainan City Government or relevant conservation organizations. Photos pending replacement with Dio's actual shots.
Frequently Asked Questions
When can black-faced spoonbills be seen at Qigu each year?
Their wintering season runs from October to March, and that is when they can be observed at Qigu.
How significant is Tainan for the global black-faced spoonbill population?
In the 2025 global census, Tainan recorded 2,439 birds, the highest of any Taiwanese county or city, roughly a third of the world's total.
What is the conservation status of the black-faced spoonbill?
The black-faced spoonbill (Platalea minor) is internationally listed as an endangered species.
Sources
- 2025黑面琵鷺全球同步普查成果 - 中華民國野鳥學會 — 2025年全球7,081隻、台灣4,169隻(58.9%)、台南2,439隻等最新普查數據