The Tram Chim National Park in southern Dong Thap province’s Tam Nong district has welcomed the return of over 20 red-headed (sarus) cranes, marking the beginning of spring.

Photo: Vietnam Pictorial.

According to Park Director Nguyen Van Hung, the cranes usually leave for Thailand, Laos and Cambodia during the flood season and come back to Tram Chim in spring for food.

Their diet includes crab, fish, rice and water chestnut.

This year, rather than flocking in very large groups, the cranes went seeking food in their dozens.

The red-headed crane, scientifically known as Grus antigone, is listed in the World Red Book of threatened species.

The management board of the park has worked very hard to preserve its natural ecosystem.

Visitors to Tram Chim cannot go within 100 metres of the birds, and must use binoculars or cameras to take a closer look.

The feeding grounds of the red-headed cranes are guarded day and night to prevent hunting activity and water levels are strictly regulated.

Source: VNA