Ruifang District Temporarily Closes Three Hiking Trails Following Hornet Stings

Central News Agency (CNA), New Taipei City, June 23.

The Ruifang District Office in New Taipei City announced today that three major hiking trails—Sandiaoling, Chailiao, and Xiaocukeng—have been temporarily closed to the public. This measure is a response to multiple reports of hikers being stung by hornets, aimed at ensuring public safety while authorities conduct nest search and mitigation operations.

In a press release, the District Office stated that persistent high temperatures have created an environment conducive to hornet nesting and foraging. This has led to a cluster of stinging incidents along the Sandiaoling, Chailiao, and Xiaocukeng trails during the Dragon Boat Festival holiday, drawing significant public concern.

Following the incidents, the District Office immediately notified the New Taipei City Animal Protection and Health Inspection Office to initiate search and control efforts. Officials stated that trail access will remain restricted to facilitate these operations. Future decisions regarding the reopening of the trails will be based on site inspections and professional risk assessments.