Firefly Season

Firefly season mainly occurs between the end of April & the beginning of May.

There are some species that galavant about all year round. But most occur during this period.

The habitat required is still water, ponds or quiet rivers, and no/minimal light pollution.

Last year, the firefly activity was limited due to the full moon and wonderfully clear skies.
This forced minimal activity.
To compete with the moonlight, the fireflies flash under the leaves of plants and trees.
They also wander into the thick of trees where it is dark.

The fireflies come out for about 1 to 2 hours at around 7pm to 9pm. So, viewing time is limited.

Taiwan improves environment & information

Previous trawling online found some ok information about fireflies.

https://www.travelking.com.tw/eng/tourguide/firefly/

But last year there was a symposium on fireflies.
That has seemed to have created a good response to improve the environment for fireflies.
There have been habitat restoration, even around urban areas, which has brought fireflies back into local communities.

Now there are some good location maps for firefly viewing.

https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/3158627

2018全台250處賞螢地圖攻略
Google map of Firefly locations

Taiwan is not the most progressive country for non-chinese speaking tourism.
Once you get out of Taipei it can be confronting trying to find out where you are.
Although, Taiwan people are willing to try and help you as best as they can with directions.

One time, we were heading to a hotel.
There were signs all along the route "Doris Hotel"
But, the actual hotel sign was in Chinese !! 🤣

Trip Preparation

I have been penciling in a rough itinerary for my trip.

I am intending to visit 4 or 5 people during the visit and staying at 3 different hotels.

One hotel in Eastern Taipei
One hotel to the upper west of Taiwan called Hsinchu.
One hotel west of Taipei in the city of Taoyuan.

I'm @jagged