Phong Dien Nature Reserve

Phong Dien Nature Reserve – A Hidden Biodiversity Hotspot in Central Vietnam

Located in the northwest of Thua Thien Hue province, Phong Dien Nature Reserve spans parts of Phong Dien and A Luoi districts, including several rural communes. Covering over 41,000 hectares, it was officially established in 2002 with the goal of protecting rare and endangered plants and animals, especially species native to the central lowlands of Vietnam.

Rich Plant Life

Phong Dien is home to a mix of tropical and subtropical evergreen forests, depending on the elevation. Surveys have recorded around 597 plant species, including:

• 34 species of ferns
• 5 species of conifers
• 554 species of flowering plants

Among these, 36 species are listed in the Vietnam Red Book, and several are globally threatened or protected under CITES regulations.

Diverse Animal Species

• Phong Dien supports a wide variety of wildlife, including:

1. 54 species of mammals, such as:
2. Pygmy Loris
3. White-cheeked Crested Gibbon
4. Gaur (wild cattle)
5. Asian palm civet
6. Several species of mice, rats, and mongooses

• Primates are a major highlight, with 8 species recorded – making up over 50% of the primate species in the Central Truong Son Mountains.
• Birdlife is impressive, with 176 species, including 12 endemic (found only in Vietnam) and 22 rare birds, making the reserve one of Vietnam’s top birdwatching destinations.
• 46 species of amphibians and reptiles have also been recorded, and scientists believe there may be new species still awaiting official identification.
• 67 species of freshwater fish have been found in local rivers, especially in the O Lau, Bo, and My Chanh river basins.

Why Visit or Study Phong Dien?

Phong Dien is one of the most important natural areas in Central Vietnam. With its untouched forests, rare species, and high biodiversity, it’s a valuable site for eco-tourism, birdwatching, scientific research, and conservation.