Nestled in a large rural lake in Hai Duong Province, just 60 kilometers east of Hanoi, is a collection of tiny islands called the Chi Lang Nam Stork Isle Group.

Each night, thousands of storks and herons descend on the area, seeking their partners and a roosting-spot.

Chi Lang Nam, the home of 10,000 storks of seven species and 5,000 herons of three different varieties, has been officially preserved since 1995.

It also shelters seasonal migrating flocks of birds such as wild ducks and geese.

An 83-year-old lady, Khoan, who has lived alongside the freshwater birds for over 50 years, says her family land, which is located on the shore about 10 meters from the main isle, will soon become part of the wildlife area reserved for her feathered friends.

From the grounds of Khoan’s house, one can view the birds perched on the branches of the longan and sandalwood trees.

Scared of the noise of the boat the old lady lends me, dozens of birds call loudly as I approach, before swiftly fleeing away.

The young herons, however, stare at me in amazement.

Bird nests hide behind bamboo leaves.

Heron offspring cry out, straining to be fed.

As I place my camera close to them, they extend their necks inquisitively trying to peck at the lens.

The storks, unlike their neighbors the herons, are haughtier and appear to show off for the camera.

The parents seem to take pride in their well-made nests, while their young stare resolutely at the camera with no sign of fear.

Authorities and residents plan to create little huts with viewing plat-forms so tourists will be able to con-template the wild freshwater birds without disturbing them.

Trekking the 3,000 square meter isle is illegal as the beauty and tranquility of the ecosystem may be threatened by care-less visitors.

If you go

The Chi Lang Nam Stork Isle Group is located near An Duong Village, Chi Lang Nam Commune,

To take a sightseeing trip to the main isle, tourists can buy tickets and rent a boat.

Prices vary, depending on the route, but should cost no more than VND10, 000 (US$0.62).

As there is still no accommodation on or near the isle, contact the Chi Lang Nam commune’s People Committee on 0320 739 447 to arrange a home-stay with a local resident.

Source: TN