In search of the elusive ‘snakebird’

During July to September, Phra Prong Water Reservoir in Sa Kaeo province is the ideal destination for anyone wanting to experience snakebird watching in Thailand. This is the time of year when the Oriental Darter or ‘snakebird’ a large-sized waterfowl of tropical South Asia and Southeast Asia can be seen in the area.

At one time, this bird was rarely seen and classified as globally threatened. It was virtually extinct in Thailand. But since 2005, they have been found migrating from elsewhere to many areas in Sa Kaeo province, especially Phra Prong Water Reservoir, which has become their breeding ground.

Observing the life of the snakebirds and watching how they catch fish can be a fun and exciting experience and local authorities are inviting visitors to visit Sa Kaeo at this time of the year for the snakebird watching festival. You will soon realize why the Oriental Darter is nicknamed the ‘snakebird’.

Aside from snakebirds, several other birds can be spotted at this time too, including open-billed storks, drongo, Black-crowned night heron, Little cormorant, Purple heron and many more.

Visitors can rent a boat for a snakebird watching trip and enjoy seeing the birds and waterfowl in their natural habitat.

Phra Prong Water Reservoir is located in Chongkum sub-district, Wattana Nakhon district, Sa Kaeo province in the Eastern Region of Thailand.