Cambodia Birding: Ang Trapeang Thmor, Crane Reserve
Along with Prek Toal and Tmatboey, Ang Trapeang Thmor should surely figure as one of the prime birding sites of northwest Cambodia. The protected area is a huge reservoir built by the Khmer Rouge featuring extensive wet grasslands which grade into deciduous dipterocarp forest. It is most renowned for being the home of the largest-known flock of the rare Sarus Crane during the dry season (January-April). But almost 200 other species have been documented since the discovery of the site by the late Sam Veasna in 1998. At the height of the dry season – in March and April – feeding herds of the endangered Eld’s Deer can be seen at the fringes of the reservoir.
TOUR ITINERARY:
Birding Cambodia: Ang Trapeang Thmor Day Trip, Crane Reserve
Leave Siem Reap after breakfast for a full day trip to Ang Trapeang Thmor, a nature reserve based around a reservoir dating from the Khmer Rouges era. The reserve now harbours a unique wetland set amongst grasslands, dipterocarp forest and rice fields. Ang Trapeang Thmor is an important wintering site for the endangered Eastern Sarus Crane between February and March. Other highlights of Ang Trapeang Thmor are the breeding colonies of Spot-billed Pelican and Painted Stork and often large numbers of waterfowl including Spot-billed Duck, Cotton Pygmy Goose, Garganey, Black-backed Swamphen, Pheasant-tailed and Bronze-winged Jacanas. Overnight in Siem Reap.
PRICE: USD159 per person (minimum 2pax)
Tour Includes: Round trip transfers in private vehicle, English-speaking birding guide and police escort, packed lunch by Blue Pumpkin.
