Nguyen Danh Hien, 54, leased the marshland in Tan Phu Commune in 2005 with plans to develop fish farming. During land clearance, he noticed flocks of storks returning each afternoon to roost in the flooded trees and decided to retain part of the natural habitat.
“If the entire area had been filled in, they would have lost their home,” Hien said. “So my family chose to keep the wetland forest, raising fish while allowing the birds to live here.”
The decision meant sacrificing full commercial use of the land. Hien later planted trees around the pond and installed fencing to deter poaching, while managing farming activities to minimise disturbance to the birds.
At dusk, flocks of storks return to settle among the trees, contrasting with the surrounding homes. Hien estimates around 2,000 storks stay from about July to April before migrating, with other bird species also inhabiting the site.
Local residents say the wetland not only shelters wildlife but also improves air quality and provides a rare green space in the community.
According to Chairman of the Tan Phu Commune People’s Committee Vy Van Quang, the model highlights the importance of environmental protection at a time when bird hunting persists in some areas.
Authorities are considering conservation measures linked to eco-tourism, while ensuring the birds’ natural habitat is not disrupted.