Photographer: Lev Frid   Destination: Thailand

 

Thailand ranks among Southeast Asia’s premier birding destinations. Its remarkable variety of habitats, from rhododendron-covered highlands to vast coastal mudflats and dense lowland forest, supports a bird list of exceptional breadth.

 

In the far north, on the forested ridges along the Myanmar border, lies one of the country’s most sought-after specialties: Mrs Hume’s Pheasant. Named in honor of the wife of British ornithologist Allan Octavian Hume, this striking pheasant is rare across its range, but northern Thailand offers some of the best chances of encountering it. Careful exploration of quiet mountain roads through its favored oak-pine woodland often produces sightings of birds feeding at the verge or crossing through the undergrowth.

 

As in many parts of Asia the Phasianidae family is well represented with several stunning species to look for besides the featured Mrs. Hume's Pheasant. Khao Yai is home to the incredible Silver Pheasant and Siamese Fireback while Grey Peacock-Pheasant and Kalij Pheasant can be found in Kaeng Krachan. Further north the impressive Green Peafowl can be seen in the Chiang Mai area, as can Chinese Francolin, while several other species of partridge can also be readily found including Mountain Bamboo, Rufous-throated, Bar-backed, Green-legged and Ferruginous. 

 

Thailand also shelters an impressive roster of other avian highlights. Among them are the critically endangered Spoon-billed Sandpiper, and equally threatened Nordmann's Greenshank, iconic Great Hornbill, elusive Coral-billed Ground Cuckoo, jewel-like Blue Pitta, towering Great Slaty Woodpecker, distinctive Ratchet-tailed Treepie, and localized Spot-breasted Parrotbill.

 

Beyond the birding, Thailand offers a wealth of cultural and scenic experiences, from golden pagodas and vibrant markets to renowned cuisine and welcoming hospitality.

 

Join us in discovering why Thailand is rightly considered one of Asia’s essential birding destinations.