Shanghai Flower, Bird, Fish and Insect Market
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This weekend as we were strolling the streets of Shanghai we came upon an insect market. Naturally we had to go inside and check it out!
The first thing that hit us was a cacaphony of sound. Birds were calling, dogs barking, cats meowing and hundreds of crickets were making their high-pitched sound.
The crickets were kept in cans made to amplify their sound. They are sold as pets or as fighting animals, a tradition that dates back to the early 12th century.
Other insects were sold in small boxes, presumably also to be used in insect fights. We walked amongst them in constant fear of one getting out and getting stuck in our hair or in our clothes. Everything itched!
These little guys were quieter, but at least twice as colourful!
Heaps of tiny turtles.
Kittens, puppies and birds were kept in cages stacked high on the walls.
This kind of market is rapidly disappearing in China, which is probably for the best. Even though the animals looked well fed and fairly well looked after, their quarters were quite cramped. We were quite happy to leave, even though it was an interesting experience.
If you're ever in Shanghai and want to have a look for yourself, the market is located at No. 405 Xizang Nan Lu, close to the metro station Laoximen.
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