It is recognized as an Important Bird Area (IBA) by BirdLife International.
The wetland acts as a natural carbon sink, effectively filtering water runoff from the Dayuan industrial areas before it reaches the sea.
The site hosts over 200 recorded bird species, representing nearly half of all bird species found in Taiwan.
The mudflats formed significantly following the decline of local military coastal defense installations that altered tidal current deposition.
It remains one of the few places in Northern Taiwan where the rare Kentish Plover breeds successfully in the wild.
Xucuogang Wetlands is the largest coastal wetland in Taoyuan, Taiwan, situated at the confluence of the Laojie River and the Taiwan Strait. This former military site was repurposed into a nature reserve to protect critical migratory bird habitats. The area features extensive mudflats that serve as a vital stopover for shorebirds traveling along the East Asian-Australasian Flyway. It is officially designated as a National Important Wetland by the Taiwanese government. Visitors can observe a diverse array of avian species, including sandpipers, plovers, and occasionally endangered black-faced spoonbills. The landscape is characterized by its open, flat terrain and proximity to the coastline, offering unobstructed views of the sea and river estuary. The site is part of a larger coastal conservation initiative in the Dayuan District. Its ecological value is centered on the tidal zone, which supports a high density of benthic organisms.
The elevated viewing pavilion overlooking the main tidal flats at the mouth of the Laojie River.
Bring high-quality binoculars or a spotting scope, as birds are often far from the walking paths.
Check local tide tables before arriving; the best bird-watching occurs during low tide when the mudflats are exposed.
Apply high-factor sunscreen and insect repellent, as there is almost no shade or wind protection in the open wetland area.
Do not wander off the designated boardwalks or paths, as the mudflats can be soft and dangerous, and trespassing destroys nesting sites.
Maintain a quiet demeanor to avoid startling wildlife and strictly remain on marked trails to protect the fragile mudflat ecosystem.
