Matsu islands Tern Refuge

Information

Date of foundation	January 26, 2000
Area( hectare )	71.6166
Primary Object for Protection	Island ecosystem, seabird habitats and special geological landscapes
Scope of Administration	Shuangzi Reef of Dongyin Township; Sanlian Islet, Zhong Island, Tiejian Island, Baimiao and Jin Islet of Beigan Township; Liuchuan Reef of Nangan Township; Sheshan (Snake Mountain) of Juguang Township; and the buffer zone extending 100 meters from the subtidal line into the sea
Authority in-charge-of	Lianjiang County Government

Matsu Islands Wildlife Refuge is established to protect bridled tem, roseate tern, black-naped tern, greater crested tern, black-tailed gull, reef egret and fork-tailed swift that breed on the islands. Based on statistics, the number of terns bred in the refuge has exceeded ten thousand, among which bridled tern and black-naped tern are protected avian species. The population of greater crested tern is the largest ever found in Taiwan. The refuge is also the only habitat and breeding area for black-tailed gull and the 'legendary bird', greater crested tern. The facts have proved the geographical significance of Matsu Islands.