Mangrove Forest @ Sirindorn Environmental Park - Photo Report

[Big Boy]

I've been to the Pranburi Forest Mangrove Park many times. We have visitors over at the moment, and we thought we'd do something a bit same, same but different. I've known of the existence of this forest for some time, but have never bothered visiting before.

Just 7.6 miles North of my home, situated in the same grounds where the Mrigadayavan Palace stands. We stopped at the Sirindorn International Environment Park first, but were then directed on to the forest, which was about 500 metres further on.

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When we eventually found the forest, it was set back a little way from the beach/ocean. We simply parked under some shady trees.

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There were 2 pathways into the forest. We assumed it would be a round circuit, similar to Pranburi Forest i.e. enter at one one entrance, walk around and exit at the other. In theory, our reasoning was sound, but TIT.

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The wooden walkways were wider than Pranburi Forest which made them very wheelchair friendly. No occasional steps either. Everything was fine until we reached the first suspension bridge.

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Actually, with a bit of coaxing, we got Mrs BB across the bridge, which was a bit of fun, whilst carrying the wheelchair. Over the bridge, the walkway split. One way took us out to what I presume was the original entrance to the forest.

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The other route took us alongside the river. The walkway was noticeably older on this side of the bridge, but we did encounter what must be the weirdest looking fish I have ever seen. Now I look back at the photos, I see this fish was replicated in a statue at the original entrance. Does anybody know what species of fish this was?

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The pathway was becoming increasingly worn, and we eventually came to a sign saying 'go no further'. So we had to re-trace our steps.

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We walked back to the entrance, and then entered by what we earlier presumed would be our exit. We walked to what seemed to be a ginormous observation tower.

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We parked Mrs BB in the shade beneath the tower, and made our way up to enjoy the views, and a delightful sea breeze.

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When we got to the bottom of the tower again, we took some to view the wildlife in the mud.

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Also at this observation point, there was another suspension bridge, which we crossed, only to find the pathway to be closed due to damage.

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A pleasant couple of hours away, and so nice to see a new mangrove forest. This forest was not as mature as Pranburi, but interesting to see the wildlife as well. A good opportunity to test the zoom on my new(ish) point and shoot camera. The beach looked very clean, and I guess it could be a nice place to take a dip. However, I don't know if the Mrigadayavan Palace no swimming rules count here.

[HHTel]

I've been there a few times after getting bored taking visitors to Pranburi. I actually preferred it.
The fish you're asking about is a 'mud skipper'
You see quite a few there. I know them from old canoeing round the kampongs off Singapore. Technically a fish and their 2 fins at the front allows them to 'walk'. They've been known to climb trees! They've been known to venture quite a way from the water.
Quite a sight to see them 'skipping' across an expanse of mud. They have quite some speed.

I used to call them frogs with tails as their head does resemble a frog.

[Big Boy]

Thank you HHTel. I hadn't realised, but they are the same as this week's Caption Competition.

[Green Nomad]

Thanks for a very interesting report, Big Boy. Is there an entry fee for this place? I seem to remember having to pay to enter the Palace grounds some years ago. Also, how close can you park near the mangrove area? GN

[Green Nomad]

Oh, another couple of questions that are possibly relevant ,as I am an amateur photographer, were there any birds seen?. The crabs etc are only seen on low tides, is that correct?

[Big Boy]

There is no entrance fee - absolutely free. Parking was probably 10 yards from the forest entrance, under the shady beach side trees.

We actually discussed the lack of bird sound/activity as we walked around. I remember seeing one bird while we were there. As for the crabs, we saw them at various points around the forest - it is probably tidal, but I'd guess the tide doesn't reach a lot of the mud at this time of year. The best place we found for observing the crabs/mud skippers was at the base of the observation tower. We did see several of the larger mud skippers at various points - they swim with their heads out of the water, so easy to spot.

Outside of the forest there are marshlands, and we did see some very large (larger than I see at Khao Tao Lake) stork like birds just standing around, posing for any amateur photographers that might happen along .

[Green Nomad]

Thanks again Big Boy