2004 VIETNAM EXPEDITION to the Kontum Plateau of Central Annam
(7-24 March, 18 days)
Our objective on this trip will be to see 3 recently discovered
(1996-1999) endemic species that are confined to a small area in southern South
Annam in central Vietnam, and extreme SE Laos: Chestnut-eared Laughingthrush,
Garrulax konkakinhensis, Golden-winged Laughingthrush, Garrulax
ngoclinhensis, and Black-crowned Barwing, Actinodura sodangorum.
Other Indochinese special species present in the area are: Crested Argus (extremely
difficult to see), Red-vented Barbet, Short tailed Scimitar-Babbler, Black-hooded
and Red-tailed Laughingthrushes, Black-browed Fulvetta, Grey crowned Tit, Yellow-billed
Nuthatch, White-winged Magpie, Indochinese Magpie, and Ratchet-tailed Treepie.
Other interesting species are: Rufous-throated and Bar-backed Partridges, Hodgson's
Hawk Cuckoo, Green Cochoa, Large, Red-billed and Coral-billed Scimitar-Babblers,
Cutia, Chestnut-fronted Shrike-Babbler, Golden-breasted, Streak-throated and
Rufous-throated Fulvettas, Black-headed Sibia, Black-chinned Yuhina, Black-throated
and Grey-headed Parrotbills, Grey-cheeked Warbler, White-tailed and Pale Blue
Flycatchers, and Fork-tailed Sunbird.
The expedition involves camping and trekking on two mountains, Mt. Ngoc Linh
and Mt. Ngoc Boc. You'll need to bring a tent and sleeping bag. While somewhat
physically demanding, it is not a difficult expedition. With good health and
moderate physical condition, you will be just fine. Leader: Ben King.