aeeble

The Kao-Chi-Tou (Gaojihdou or Kao-Chi-Wei) Natural Ecological Reserve is a 30-hectare ecological protection area. Due to the curved terrain of the estuary, it is called "Kao-Chi". The semi-enclosed coastal terrain provides a good growth environment for mangroves, making it the largest mangrove area on the left bank of the Tamsui River. The main conservation target of Kao-Chi-Tou is the water caltrop and its associated plants and animals. The most beautiful scenery in the park is the lush green water caltrop and the blue small boats parked on the sandy beach. In addition to water caltrop, the exploration of mangrove wetland ecology in Kao-Chi-Tou also allows for the observation of precious wetland ecology, including mangroves, horsehoof fungi, and various types of river mouth plants such as reeds. During the daily tidal changes, various creatures such as mudskippers, fiddler crabs, top shells, and barnacles can be seen. This is also an important station for autumn and winter bird-watching in the north, with many species of migratory birds and resident birds inhabiting the area. The coastal dike in Kao-Chi-Tou is an excellent natural geographic classroom, equipped with a bicycle path that allows visitors to ride along and enjoy the scenery. There are many interpretive signs along the way that provide information on the natural ecology, making it a place with high educational value. Many families with children can often be seen collecting materials for their homework. Walking onto the coastal dike on the north side of Kao-Chi-Tou, the open view allows visitors to overlook the Bali Sports Center, Guanyin Mountain, and Tamsui, taking in the beautiful scenery.