Phu Quoc Herping in the dried season Highlights (April 9th, 2025)
Our recent herping tour on Phu Quoc, came with Owen and Ms Ro Fea on April 9th, 2025, presented the typical challenges of the dry season. While the island’s vibrant reptile and amphibian life was understandably more elusive under the parched conditions, the day still offered glimpses into the fascinating wildlife that calls this Vietnamese paradise home.
Despite the dry spell, the sharp-eyed duo managed to spot some intriguing creatures. A beautiful red-tailed pit viper (Trimeresurus cardamomensis) provided a thrilling encounter, its vibrant scales a stark contrast to the drier foliage. We also observed the intricate web of a patient huntsman spider, a testament to the island’s diverse invertebrate life. A glimpse of a shy tarantula disappearing into its burrow offered another moment of natural wonder. Perhaps the most captivating sighting was a gentle loris, its slow and deliberate movements a reminder of the quieter inhabitants of the forest. We also spotted many Large-tailed Nightjars, often sleeping on the path or in the bushes. Their large eyes, reflecting the light, made them easy to find.
As the day drew to a close, the heavens opened, treating us to a classic tropical downpour. While the rain might have curtailed further exploration, it provided a perfect excuse to seek shelter and enjoy a comforting, steaming bowl of soup. A warm and satisfying end to a day spent exploring the natural beauty of Phu Quoc.
While the dry season presented its limitations, the tour still offered valuable insights into the island’s herpetofauna and the dedication required to find them. We look forward to returning during the wetter months to hopefully witness the forest teeming with even more life!
For more details:
https://quangsi.net/jungle-night-herping-in-phu-quoc-island/
