Rare Asian openbill storks spotted in Vietnam’s Central Highlands

Vo Tan Cong, secretary of the Party Committee in Ia Mron Commune, Ia Pa District, on Monday signed an official directive urging local authorities to take immediate action to protect the birds, which have gathered in the commune’s rice fields in large numbers.

The Asian openbill stork, known scientifically as Anastomus oscitans, is a protected species known for its rarity in Vietnam.

Sightings in the Central Highlands province are unusual, as the birds are typically found in limited numbers in the Mekong Delta, the southeastern province of Tay Ninh, and some areas of northern Vietnam.

In response, the commune has launched patrols to monitor and safeguard the flock.

Authorities have prohibited hunting or disturbing the birds, warning that violations could result in criminal charges under Vietnamese wildlife protection laws.

Local Party units were instructed to educate residents and Party members on the importance of protecting rare species.

Public outreach campaigns will also be expanded to inform villagers about the legal and ecological significance of wildlife conservation.

The Asian openbill stork, weighing 1-1.2 kilograms as adults, typically inhabits freshwater wetlands, rice fields, and marshes.

Their diet includes snails, amphibians, crustaceans, and large insects.