Migratory Bird Season in Suburban Hanoi

These days, the flooded fields in Binh Minh commune (Hanoi) come alive as numerous migratory bird species flock to the area. Black-winged stilts, marsh sandpipers, egrets, common kingfishers, and white-throated kingfishers appear across the rice paddies, ponds, and tree branches, creating a distinctive natural landscape in the capital's suburbs.

Seen from above, the fields in Binh Minh commune stretch wide and are covered with water. This serves as a foraging habitat for many waterbird species.

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Black-winged stilts, elegant birds featuring contrasting black-and-white plumage and long pinkish-red legs, frequently forage in shallow waters. Photo: Nguyen Xuan Nguyen.

Across the flooded rice fields, a flock of marsh sandpipers uses their long bills to forage.

An egret forages among the rice paddies.

It is not difficult to spot birds of the heron family along grassy banks and water ditches.

An individual paradise flycatcher makes an appearance in this area.

On tree branches extending over the water’s surface, common kingfishers frequently select advantageous perches to observe their surroundings. The striking blue hue of these birds provides a vibrant highlight amidst the rural landscape.

A white-throated kingfisher stalks its prey. This species is distinguished by its large red bill and brilliant blue plumage.

The presence of numerous bird species also draws nature lovers and photographers. Photographers typically use telephoto lenses and camouflage blinds, maintaining a respectful distance from the birds’ feeding grounds.

Black-winged stilts, common redshanks, egrets, pond herons, common kingfishers, shrikes, and many other bird species create a vibrant natural world across the fields of suburban Hanoi.

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