Department of Information and Tourism, Taipei City Government

A giant fish was reported trapped at Guandu Pier in Taipei’s Beitou District on February 5, 2026. An Ocean Sunfish (also known as a Mola mola) became stranded and deeply stuck in the silt at the pier, assuming it was unable to return to the open sea before the tide receded. Upon receiving the report, the Taipei City Animal Protection Office (APO) immediately coordinated with relevant authorities and dispatched rescue team members to the scene. Working together with dedicated ferry staff, they completed the rescue mission, allowing the fish to return safely to the ocean.

The APO stated that when the rescue team members arrived, a helpful ferry worker had already stepped into the mud to push the body, while another person on shore pulled a rope to drag the fish out. The ferry staff reported being exhausted due to the thick silt and the immense weight of the animal. The rescue team members immediately joined the effort to move the fish, successfully freeing it from the muddy marsh. Once released, the sunfish swam toward the Tamsui River estuary on its own. The APO pointed out that the Ocean Sunfish (Mola mola) has a unique appearance, with adults typically weighing between 247 and 1,000 kilograms. As a large pelagic species, its appearance at Guandu Pier is exceptionally rare, and the rescue operation drew a significant crowd of onlookers.

The APO added that Taipei’s animal rescue services remain available 24 hours a day. If citizens find injured wildlife, stray animals, or lost pets, they should call the 1959 Animal Protection Hotline immediately. The APO will dispatch personnel for rescue and placement based on the specific condition of the animal. Citizens can also use the Taipei City Government Line@ for instant reporting. This platform allows users to upload videos and photos, providing more detailed information for rescue team members to determine the most effective rescue plan.