Bueng Boraphet is a semi-natural lake, in Nakorn Sawan province, central Thailand, which fluctuates in its water level throughout the seasons with the highest levels at the end of the wet season and beginning of the dry season.
The lake is one of the largest single wetland sites in Thailand and certainly one of the most famous due to the discovery, in 1968, of the almost mythical White-eyed River Martin and all subsequent sightings of the bird (up to 1980) which occurred here. It is unlikely that this species will ever be seen again but a combination of reedbeds, lotus and lilies, open water and scrubland makes for a great birding spectacle at any time, although the most species will be seen in the dry season.
Although this site is classified as a non-hunting area, unfortunately this status affords the habitat itself little protection and the reed beds are greatly reduced due to human disturbance and the margins of the lake are under increasing pressure from development and conversion to rice fields; whilst fishing is allowed hunting of birds is not tolerated here.
Boat trips for birdwatching or sightseeing here are a pleasant option for birders and non-birders alike and the crocodile breeding centre offers a chance to see these creatures at close quarters although with many of them having escaped in severe flooding it is possible to find them in the lake itself! Birds aside, the beautiful array of water lilies and lotus flowers make for a wonderful sight and great photos.