Xuan Thuy National Park in Nam Dinh, Vietnam, is not only a UNESCO-recognized world biosphere reserve but also an ideal destination to admire the beauty of migratory birds. Every winter, tens of thousands of birds from the North flock here, creating a vibrant and colorful natural spectacle.
Xuan Thuy National Park – A Migratory Bird “Meeting Point”
Located approximately 40km from the city center of Nam Dinh, Xuan Thuy National Park emerges as a green gem of the Red River Delta. Internationally recognized as a Ramsar site, a crucial wetland conservation area, it is home to hundreds of rare flora and fauna species. In particular, from November to March or April of the following year, Xuan Thuy becomes a stopover for tens of thousands of migratory birds from the North seeking refuge from the cold. Its biodiversity and unique natural beauty have transformed it into an attractive ecotourism destination, drawing both domestic and international visitors for exploration and discovery.
Bird diversity in Xuan Thuy National Park, with over 200 species including 50 water bird species and 100 migratory bird species
Xuan Thuy National Park currently hosts over 200 species, including more than 50 water bird species and 100 migratory bird species, creating a diverse and rich ecosystem.
Migratory Bird Season – The Perfect Time to Explore Xuan Thuy
The ideal time to visit Xuan Thuy National Park is from October or November to March or April of the following year. During this period, the number of birds increases dramatically, creating a lively and bustling atmosphere. Visitors will have the opportunity to witness firsthand flocks of migratory birds of all colors and sizes, forming a magnificent and unique natural landscape.
Xuan Thuy is not only a habitat for common birds but also a “meeting point” for many rare bird species listed in the International Red Book. Notable examples include the Nordmann’s Greenshank, Spoon-billed Sandpiper, Yellow-breasted Bunting, Dalmatian Pelican, Saunders’s Gull, Black-headed Ibis, Eurasian Spoonbill, Indian Spot-billed Duck, and Chinese Egret.
Diverse Ecosystem – Abundant Food Source for Birds
Xuan Thuy National Park is characterized as a coastal estuarine wetland national park, with a unique ecosystem typical of the Northern Vietnamese coast. The park encompasses mangrove forests, tidal flats, creeks, lagoons, sand dunes, and more, creating an ideal living environment for birds.
Underwater, various species of shrimp, fish, crabs, snakes, clams, and oysters provide a rich and abundant food source for the birds. The most noteworthy observation in Xuan Thuy National Park is the existence of the largest population of Eurasian Spoonbills in Vietnam.
Each season in Xuan Thuy National Park offers visitors different experiences. In summer and autumn, visitors can enjoy cool breezes from the sea and observe migratory birds escaping the heat from the South and Cambodia, such as the Asian Openbill and pelicans. When visiting Xuan Thuy in winter, you will witness skies filled with birds, white wings soaring against the clear blue sky. Especially, waking up to watch the sunrise over the clam farming fields here is truly a wonderful experience.
Ba Lat Estuary – Xuan Thuy National Park
Ba Lat Estuary is one of the attractive destinations in Xuan Thuy National Park, where visitors can admire the majestic natural scenery and rich biodiversity.
Explore the Unique Culture and Cuisine of Xuan Thuy
A trip to Xuan Thuy National Park would be incomplete without enjoying the famous Nam Dinh specialties such as: Giao Thuy fermented pork roll (Nem nam Giao Thuy), Giao Xuan pork skin mix (nem chao Giao Xuan), Sa Chau fish sauce (nuoc mam Sa Chau), Hoanh Nha crab paste (mam cay Hoanh Nha), jellyfish salad (nom sua), mangrove forest honey, and fresh seafood from the estuary region.
After strolling around the national park, you can contact local residents for a rustic meal right on the huts facing the peaceful river. Dining and enjoying the scenery in a tranquil sky and cloud setting is definitely an experience worth trying.
The communities in the buffer zone of Xuan Thuy National Park represent the land-opening culture of the Red River Delta residents. Over nearly 300 years, with the tradition of dyke construction and land reclamation from the sea, being diligent and courageous in conquering nature, the local communities have created prosperous villages.
Conclusion
Xuan Thuy National Park is not only an ideal destination for nature lovers and those who want to discover the beauty of migratory birds but also a place to experience the unique culture and cuisine of Nam Dinh province. Come to Xuan Thuy to immerse yourself in the vast space of sky, land, and water, and feel the peace and tranquility of life here. Are you ready for an exciting journey to explore this fascinating wetland?