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MINSONTAUNG WILDLIFE SANCTUARY "
The Last Remaining Site for Burmese Star Tortoise
This Myanmar (Burma) ecotourism, birding and birds watching tours site is located in the Central Myanmar Dry Zone at Natogyi Township, Mandalay division. It is situated on Mandalay – Myinchan high way road, approximately 112 km south of Mandalay. The reserve is 195m above sea level and the highest peak is 312m. The total area is 22.6 sq km (8.725 sq miles) in size. Established in 2001 as a wildlife sanctuary. The whole area is covered with thorn-scrub forest on the plain and dry-deciduous forest on the hill. Annual rain fall is 30 inches. The temperature in the hot season averages 90˚ F to 105˚ F, in winter 50˚ F to 85˚ F.
Over 110 bird species have been recorded in this Myanmar (Burma) ecotourism, birding and birds watching tours site. The highlights to be seen include four Myanma endemic species: rare Jerdon's Minivet, White-throated Babbler, rare Hooded Treepie and Burmese Bushlark. Other interesting birds that could be seen in this sanctuary are Rufous Woodpecker, Pied Cuckoo, Rufous Treepie, Eurasian Collared Dove, Spotted Owlet, Streak-eared Bulbul, Vinous-breasted Starling and Plain-backed Sparrow.
The reserve also has varieties of dry zone fauna, including Barking Deer, Asiatic Jackal, Civets, Rodents and bats. 9 species of amphibian, 26 species of reptile and over 50 species of butterfly inhabit in the area. The reserve is well known for the Myanmar endemic Burmese Star Tortoise, a critically endangered species and CITES II. It is also placed on the map of the world’s top 25 most Endangered Turtles. A captive breeding program is now carrying out at the Shauktawyoe camp. The work initiated and managed by staff has been recognized internationally as a success for Myanmar.
The area people believe that if any one collects the tortoises form the mountain, the mountain ‘Nat’ known as Bo Bo Gyi will be angered and make them lose their way.
At Payagyi ancient village, there is a home industry for Pyu beat production. These handicrafts are made by fossil wood. The hand textile weaving industry can be learned at Nabin village, near Myinchan.
We, S.S.T, would like to recommend to stop at Minsontaung WS after enjoying Bagan culture.
Recommend to visit all the year round.
Please contact to marketing@sstmyanmar.com if you want to visit in this Myanmar (Burma) ecotourism, birding and birds watching site.
