Formerly an ocean garden where coral polyps, calcareous algae, foraminifera, and shells flocked and thrived, Kenting National Forest Recreation Area became a unique forest ecosystem, an Uplifted Coral Reef Forest, thanks to the plate movement of the Earth 500 thousand years ago. Such an ecosystem is a mix of rich ecology, monsoon rainforest, and limestone landform, offering visitors an alternative touring experience in Kenting.
Merely a 10 minute walk from Kenting Street, it is the second national forest recreational area in Taiwan, home to thriving species of the uplifted coral reef forest and monsoon rainforest: big Bishopwood that cling tightly to the reef, Looking Glass Trees with extensive buttress roots, White Banyan Trees with countless aerial roots, etc. The Japanese established the “Hengchun Tropical Botanical Garden” here in 1906, which has been operating for over a century to date.
Groups of Taiwan macaque and Red-bellied tree squirrel are often seen in the Recreation Area. Yet, the most captivating scene will be the migrant birds visiting during the autumn and winter, such as Gray-faced Buzzards in October. At times, you can even sight the elegant silhouette of the rare Black-napped Oriole. At the bottom level of the forest, there live precious tiny dwellers like the Huang Ze gray crabs (Geothelphusa albogilva) and Satsuma batanica pancala, endemic species to Taiwan.
Another major feature of Kenting National Forest Recreation Area is its limestone landform. Geological treasures, including stalactites and stalagmites, can be found in the vadose caves, like the Silver Dragon Cave and Stalagmite Cave. This magical forest is definitely a feast for the eyes for anyone who likes adventure!