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archerfish and giant barbs, nearly 180
algae species, 26 epifauna species, 350
species of plankton and 34 species of
amphibian.
We float quietly through a ver-
dant cajuput forest into the wild park,
stunned by a spectacular view of this
green oasis with its flowers. Sometimes
we are startled by the sound of bird
wings flapping as several birds fly over-
head. A white stork leisurely stands in a
green field.
According to the tour guide, the
rice is unusual here and farmers cannot
harvest it in the normal way; instead,
they have to row their boat to collect
single rice plants at night because when
the sun rises the ripe rice will fall. That
is why it is known locally as ghost rice.
Doan Quoc Hai, vice director of
Gao Giong bird garden, says the garden
has several species of birds including
purple herons and some other species
listed on Vietnam’s Red List. The garden
is crowded with tens of thousands of
little egrets – the largest population in
the area.
Our next destination is the old Xeo
Quyt military base, which extends over
50ha and includes around 20ha of pri-
mary forest. Besides the war relics
including an old military base, bomb
shelters and tunnels, we also have the
chance to see more than 170 species of
plants and 200 species of wild animals.
Next, we sail in small boats piloted
by tour guides dressed in traditional
clothes. Last but not least, a Vietnam-
ese opera is sung, creating a truly
traditional atmosphere and bringing
us unforgettable memories of Dong
Thap province.
timeout
A wetland scene with trademark southern open skies
Some of the provinces many local speciality foods
The lotus ponds prove a massive
hit with keen photographers