Watching birds of prey in Prachuap Khiri Khan
The annual bird of prey spotting festival has begun in Prachuap Khiri Khan. Between now and the end of November, birdwatchers can see the migratory birds of prey from the observation point at the top of Khao Pho in Bang Saphan Noi.
Over the next three months, eagles and falcons from China, Russia, India, the Siberian mountains and the Himalayas will migrate from colder climates to the forests and palm plantations around the Khao Chai Rat sub-district.
When they arrive in Thailand, the birds will pass through the mountains of Phetchabun in the northeast before heading south to Mount Dong Phaya Yen. They pass through central Thailand before heading south towards Samut Sakhon, Samut Songkhram and Phetchaburi before flying over Prachuap Khirikhan towards Chumphon and finally Malaysia.
As many as 1,6 million birds of prey are expected to migrate to the area, including imperial eagles, steppe eagles, great spotted eagles, pied harriers, shikras and peregrine falcons.
On Wednesday (October 12), Mr. Komkrit Charoenpattanasombat, Deputy Governor of Prachuap Khiri Khan Province, attended the press conference to formally launch the bird of prey observing festival.
According to Mr. Komkrit, Khao Pho in Bang Saphan Noi is a selling point for wildlife tourism in Prachuap Khiri Khan and invited both Thais and foreigners to watch the migrating birds of prey. Mr Komkrit said morning is the best time to watch the birds.
When visiting the top of the mountain, visitors should be able to observe the birds with the naked eye, but binoculars will also be available for viewing from a distance, Mr Komkrit said.
Source: Hua Hin Today
In September 2016 I wrote an article for TB on this subject:
We are writing September 26, 2016. Today I observe the first raptors (birds of prey) above my home in the jungle of Pathiu. They are back, like every year, a true natural phenomenon. A first group of about 20 birds of prey circles in the air here. There will be more to come, many more in the coming days. Why right here? Their gathering place is a hill with a height of about 500m overlooking the bay of Saphli, Thung Wualean. The hill is surrounded by mainly palm oil plantations, far in the periphery, especially Ta Sae is very rich in palm oil plantations.
It is advisable to be present in the early morning, before 08.00:XNUMX, when the birds start looking for food.
The hill has very nicely landscaped opportunities for bird watchers and the route is well marked. It's on the road: 3201.