Buri Ram Bird Park

Buri Ram Bird Park is the local name for Huai Talat Reservoir, a large wetland about 12 km south of Buriram town on the road towards Prakhon Chai. This is wild birdwatching rather than a zoo: there are no walk-through aviaries, just open water, reedbeds and grassland where birds gather on their own. More than 200 species have been recorded here.

The reservoir is best known as the release site for Thailand’s reintroduced eastern sarus crane, the tall wild crane that had disappeared from the country and is now breeding again around Buriram’s wetlands. From November to April the water fills with migratory ducks, egrets, herons and waders, and early morning is the time to see them at their most active. A small private bird garden, Suan Nok, sits beside the reservoir for a closer look at captive species.

There is no entry fee for the reservoir. Bring binoculars and a long lens — the birds keep their distance — along with sun protection and water, as shade is limited along the banks. The site is easiest to reach with your own transport, and dawn brings both the best bird activity and the coolest temperatures.