Rating: 3.7/5 (6 votes)

Open Days: Open daily (recommended during the migration season)

Opening Hours: 06:00 – 18:00 (Best birdwatching times: 06:30 – 09:00 and 16:30 – 18:00)

 

Eagle Watching Site – Ban Nong Pla Lai – Bang Chak, Moo 2, Nong Pla Lai Subdistrict, Khao Yoi District, Phetchaburi Province, is a natural birdwatching destination that stands out between December and March each year. The viewing area stretches approximately 1,500 meters along rice fields and agricultural land, making it ideal for birdwatchers and those interested in lowland ecosystems.

 

Eagle Watching Site – Ban Nong Pla Lai – Bang Chak is located in Moo 2, Nong Pla Lai Subdistrict, Khao Yoi District, Phetchaburi Province. This expansive rice field landscape becomes a gathering point for migratory eagles every year, especially from December to March. The viewing zone extends about 1,500 meters along the rural road connecting Bang Chak and Ban Nong Pla Lai. Visitors can safely park along the roadside and observe the birds without entering private farmland.

 

The terrain consists of open plains interspersed with rice paddies, irrigation canals, and scattered trees. Such an environment is well suited for large birds of prey that require open space to swoop down on prey and perch on utility poles or treetops. The eagles observed here are primarily migratory species that descend into Thailand’s central plains during the cooler months, using agricultural land as feeding grounds.

 

Ecologically, eagles occupy the top tier of the food chain. Their presence in rice field ecosystems reflects the abundance of small animals such as field rodents, reptiles, and aquatic life in irrigation channels. The continued use of mixed agricultural practices and the preservation of open landscapes in Nong Pla Lai contribute to maintaining suitable habitat conditions for these migratory birds.

 

The site gained recognition when local birdwatchers in Phetchaburi observed a significant concentration of eagles during winter. Word spread among bird photography enthusiasts and nature lovers, gradually establishing the area as a seasonal destination. Although it has not been fully developed as a commercial tourist attraction, it remains popular among serious birdwatchers seeking a quiet and uncrowded experience.

 

The most suitable times for observation are early morning when sunlight begins to warm the fields and eagles start hunting, and late afternoon before sunset. Bringing binoculars or a telephoto lens is strongly recommended, as maintaining a safe distance helps avoid disturbing the birds’ natural behavior.

 

Getting There Travel via the rural road connecting Bang Chak and Ban Nong Pla Lai toward Moo 2, Nong Pla Lai Subdistrict, Khao Yoi District, Phetchaburi Province. Visitors can park safely along designated roadside areas and observe directly from the road. The viewing stretch extends approximately 1,500 meters.

 

 

A: From December to March each year.

 

A: No entrance fee. Visitors can observe from the public roadside.

 

A: Binoculars or a telephoto lens to observe without disturbing the birds.

 

A: Early morning and late afternoon when eagles are actively hunting.

 

A: Yes, but supervision is required as the area is near a public road.