Sirindhorn peat swamp forest Research and Nature Study Center (Tho Daeng Peat Swamp Forest)

Thailand's last peat swamp forest, officially declared the 1102nd wetland in Thailand on July 5, 2001. It covers 3 districts: Tak Bai, Sungai Kolok, and Sungai Padi, with an area of approximately 120,000 rai, though only 50,000 rai remain in good condition. This Tho Daeng peat swamp is abundant with wildlife and plant species, with several important water bodies flowing through it, including the Sungai Padi Canal, the Bang Nara River, and the Tho Daeng Canal, from which it derives its name. The Origin of "Peat Swamp" A peat swamp forest, or 'pa phru' in Thai, forms from continuously inundated freshwater basins over the years, accumulating organic matter – remains of plants and trees, and leaves that decompose slowly, forming peat or organic soil. This soil is spongy, less dense, and highly absorbent. It's also found that layers of peat and marine sediment alternate between 2-3 strata. This is because the sea level once rose, flooding the peat swamp and causing sediment accumulation. When saltwater remained trapped inland and the peat swamp vegetation died, mangrove forests emerged. As sea levels receded and rainfall accumulated, it gradually washed away the salinity from the contained water, slowly turning it into freshwater and thus reforming the peat swamp forest. The lowest peat layers are estimated to be 6,000-7,000 years old, while the upper peat layers are between 700-1,000 years old. The Ecosystem of the Peat Swamp The peat swamp ecosystem is a marvel of nature, demonstrating how all life forms are interconnected and interdependent in a fascinating way. You will find large trees with strong, interlocking root systems that help support each other's trunks, keeping them upright. This is why trees in the peat swamp grow in clusters; if one falls, others often fall with it. The peat swamp is home to over 400 plant species. Some are edible, such as 'Lum Phi', a palm species with a trunk and leaves resembling other palms but with sharp thorns along the stem. Its fruit is similar to 'Rakham' but smaller and tastes sour. Locals pickle it and sell it to Malaysia. The Lum Phi fruit season is from November to March; outside this season, it is rare and expensive. Meanwhile, some plants are native to Malaysia, such as 'Mak Daeng' (Red Betel Palm), known for its red stem. It's a high-quality palm, fetches a good price, and is popular for ornamental purposes due to the beauty of its red sheaths, leaves, and stem. The peat swamp also hosts many other interesting plants, like 'Pa Nan Chang', a member of the Ylang-Ylang family with large flowers, and various orchids and small plants that require careful observation to find. Native Wildlife The peat swamp is inhabited by over 200 wildlife species, including langurs, civets, wild boars, binturongs, and flat-headed cats, which are a rare protected species in Thailand. The Singapore rat, rarely seen on the Malay Peninsula, is abundant here. In Thailand, it is found only in the Tho Daeng peat swamp. If the swamp is destroyed, these rats might venture out and damage crops of local farmers. Fish species found here include the beak-toothed fish, a new world species found only in the Sirindhorn peat swamp. The 'Pla Duk Ram Phan', which looks like a snake, could potentially be developed into an economically valuable fish for aquaculture in areas with acidic water problems. 'Pla Kamae' is a bizarre-looking fish with a broad, flat head that tapers to a long tail, possessing venomous spines on its dorsal fin. These fish use the peat swamp as a sanctuary and breeding ground before their offspring disperse to be utilized by local communities for sustenance. A Birdwatcher's Paradise The peat swamp hosts many bird species, with notable ones including the Red-tailed Shama, commonly found in Sumatra, Borneo, and Malaysia. It was first sighted in Thailand here in 1987. The Malaysian Blue Flycatcher is found only in the Sirindhorn peat swamp in Thailand. Both species are currently endangered and at risk of extinction. Suitable Season You can experience the cool, comfortable atmosphere of the peat swamp almost year-round due to its humid, tropical climate with abundant rainfall. However, the best time to visit for tourism is between February and April, as this is the period with the least rainfall, making it more convenient for exploring the forest. Activities to Enjoy Tourists can gather many joyful experiences at the peat swamp. Children can learn from real-life encounters with nature. Simply walking quietly through the forest might reveal wildlife foraging, which can be a great stimulant for learning for the little ones. Exploring the peat swamp requires following designated trails that lead you close to nature without excessively disturbing it. Bringing a bird-watching guide, notebook, colored pencils, binoculars, camera, and insect repellent can enhance your enjoyment and potential for a full day's exploration. The center has established an nature trail (1,200 meters boardwalk) that winds through the peat swamp, starting from the pond behind the research center building. Some sections feature suspension bridges, while others have high observation towers offering panoramic views of the lush peat swamp vegetation below. Along the trail, you'll find informative signs identifying interesting trees and knowledge booths at various points. It is open daily from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with no admission fee. There is also an exhibition hall to provide visitors with further information. Precautions What requires caution in the peat swamp are black mosquitoes, carriers of filariasis, which are abundant and most active at dusk. Smoking is also prohibited within the peat swamp to prevent forest fires, as a discarded cigarette butt could ignite the dry vegetation. Importantly, peat swamp fires are difficult to extinguish compared to other types of forest fires. The fuel includes not only trees but also decaying wood and accumulated plant matter within the peat layers. The fire can spread underground, making containment and extinguishing efforts extremely challenging. The fire can smolder for weeks, only being fully extinguished when heavy rains flood the surface, submerging the fire. Getting There By Train: Traveling from Bangkok by train is more convenient than by bus, as there is a direct line to Sungai Kolok station. From there, you can hire a taxi in Sungai Kolok town. By Car: From Bangkok, head towards Tak Bai district, using Highway No. 4057 (Tak Bai-Sungai Kolok road). After about 5 kilometers, you will find a small turn-off onto Chuananont Road. Proceed for about 3 kilometers, then turn left for another 2 kilometers. Signs will guide you to the Sirindhorn peat swamp forest Research and Nature Study Center along the way. For more information, contact: P.O. Box 37, Sungai Kolok, Narathiwat 96120.