Why birding in Tan Phu Forest & Ma Da Nature reserve?
Birding in Tan Phu Forest and Ma Da Nature Reserve, part of the UNESCO-listed Dong Nai Biosphere Reserve, offers a rich mix of biodiversity and scenic beauty. With habitats ranging from evergreen forests to wetlands, these areas are home to species like Germain’s Peacock-Pheasant, Siamese Fireback, Bar-bellied Pitta, and Blue-rumped Pitta. Their tranquil setting makes them a perfect birding destination for a 1-2 day trip.
For a short birding trip from Sai Gon, Tan Phu Forest and Ma Da Nature Reserve are top choices. Tan Phu is just 2.5 hours away, making it easy to enjoy a full day of birding and return by late afternoon. Mã Đà, only 2 hours away, offers a similar experience with the added bonus of owl watching and herping for those interested in nocturnal wildlife.
What to see?
Bird fauna Tan Phu
This evergreen forest presenting for an ecosystem of lowland with very high diversified biology, which including over 170 bird species, 35 mammals, 60 reptiles and amphibians, and over 200 butterflies were confirmed.
Especially, this forest is also home to many important birds such as Orange-necked Partridge, Germain’s Peacock, Siamese Fireback, Lesser Adjutant, Wooly-necked Stork, Bar-bellied Pitta, Grey-faced Tit Babbler. Visiting Tan Phu FE., you also really interest in soaking your legs in a hot-water stream, enjoying the beautiful landscape of the Mai stream, and more.
The Orange – necked Partridge (Arborophila davidi), is an endemic species to Vietnam, and this species was listed as an endangered category in IUCN red list. Although the distribution range of this species covers Binh Phuoc – Dong Nai and a part of Lam Dong province nowhere we are easy to find them, except Tan Phu forest enterprise. From 2004 to 2006, Nguyen Hoai Bao led a research group to monitor Orange-necked Partridge and species in the Pheasant family population, result showed a density of 0.086 individuals per hectare.
Bird fauna in Ma Da Nature Reserve
The bird diversity of Ma Da is the same of Cat Tien National Park (both parks actually share diversity)
Most highlights Tan Phu & Ma Da
Tan Phu: Orange-necked Partridge, Bar-bellied and Blue-rumped Pitta, Black-and-buff, Pale-headed Woodpecker
Ma Da: Updating
When is the best time for birding in Tan Phu & Ma Da?
The weather and season both Tan Phu and Ma Da is sharing with Cat Tien National Park,
It enjoys a tropical savanna climate (with dry winter) in accordance with the Köppen-Geiger classification. The yearly average maximum temperature in both sites is 33°C (ranging from 31°C in September to 36°C in march). Annual rainfall is 3412mm, with a minimum of 18mm in February and a maximum of 578mm in august.
- In the month of January, the climate is perfect. The temperature rises to 33°C and you can expect to have 33mm of rainfall/month during this period.
- Between February and April, the climate is beautiful. the thermometer goes up to 35°C°C.
- Between the months of may and November the climate is passable, but still OK. The record temperature this month is 35°C.
- In the month of December, the climate is good. It is for example 32°C as the maximum temperature in December and you can expect to have 62mm of rainfall/per month during this period.
Monthly Averages
Historical monthly average weather conditions for Tan Phu & Ma Da
“The best time for birding in Tan Phu and Ma Da is from November to April, when rainfall is low, and migratory birds are most active.”
Where birding in Tan Phu & Ma Da
Birding routes
Birding along the main road through the park
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Tips for birding in Tan Phu & Ma Da
Transportation
Mostly traveling by private car is the most convenient way to reach Tan Phu and Ma Da, offering flexibility and comfort for birding trips. It allows you to explore at your own pace, with easy access to remote areas and the freedom to stop for wildlife sightings along the way.
Accommodations
There are a few guesthouses near the birding spots if you’d like to stay overnight, offering a comfortable base to rest before another day of exploring the wildlife.
The best tour cover Birding in Tan Phu & Ma Da
Hot-spot for Birding in Vietnam
all birding in hot-spot informative info [updated Jan 2023]
Nr. Nature reserve; Np. National Park; mt. Mountain
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