According to the Ninh Binh Department of Tourism, this expansive habitat is home to tens of thousands of birds, including species like herons, storks, ibises, teals, cormorants, kingfishers, and drongos. Several of these are listed in Vietnam’s Red Data Book.

Even in winter, only a small number of migratory birds leave to avoid the cold. Most remain at Thung Nham year-round, nesting and thriving in its tranquil ecosystem.

Visitors can witness flocks of wild birds gliding and circling overhead in peaceful freedom - a truly rare and moving sight.

Towering cliffs shelter herons and ibises, while mid-height bamboo groves provide an ideal nesting ground for white storks. Meanwhile, night herons often nest among the reeds and brush near the water’s edge.

The best time to visit is in the late afternoon, as the sun sets and the birds return home in flocks - an awe-inspiring natural performance that enchants every observer.

To reach the heart of the sanctuary, visitors can take a hand-rowed boat across Tiên Lake to the semi-submerged forest area, or walk a 2km trail through the forest to a higher vantage point.

Rowing along the lake, visitors can enjoy the incredible closeness of flocks of birds skimming the water.

Vu Hong Hai, a tourist from Hanoi, shared: “This is my first time at Thung Nham Bird Garden. Floating along the lake and watching white storks return to their nests at dusk was truly mesmerizing.”

A representative of Thung Nham Ecotourism Area emphasized that environmental preservation remains their top priority.

To avoid disturbing the birds, only hand-rowed boats are used. Designated docking spots maintain a minimum 2-meter distance between boats and the birds. Visitors are also instructed to stay silent and avoid littering while exploring the sanctuary.

The protected bird garden and special-use forest are patrolled 24/7 to safeguard both flora and fauna from outside threats.

Dikes have been built to store food sources for the birds, and native trees are regularly planted to support nesting.

The management board also coordinates closely with local authorities to educate nearby communities about protecting bird populations. Residents are encouraged not to hunt birds when they fly out to forage.

Thanks to these combined efforts, Thung Nham’s bird population has been largely preserved in its natural state.

Trong Tung