Hon Trung in Con Dao National Park - peaceful haven of seabirds

Hon Trung (Egg Island) lies in the northeast of the Con Dao National Park, about 20 kilometres from the mainland, and is considered the farthest island in the cluster. Thanks to its favourable natural conditions and strict conservation management, Hon Trung has been recognised by the Viet Nam Records Organisation (VietKings) as the seabird nesting site with the highest breeding density in the country.

hontrung1.jpg
Hon Trung, part of Con Dao National Park, holds the national record for the highest seabird nesting density in Viet Nam, with an average of 4.88 eggs per square metre. VietKings officially presented the record certificate to the Con Dao National Park Management Board on November 28, 2024.
hontrung2.jpg
Thousands of birds soar through the sky, creating a breathtaking masterpiece of nature.
hontrung3.jpg
Covering nearly two hectares, the landing area on the summit of Hon Trung provides an ideal habitat for seabirds. Various species build their nests across the island and forage in the surrounding waters.
hontrung4.jpg
Unlike other well-known tourist destinations, Hon Trung is a strictly protected ecological reserve, completely closed to public access. Both locals and visitors are prohibited from approaching the island.
hontrung5.jpg
Hon Trung, a “no-go zone” for tourists, is in fact a “cradle of life” for tens of thousands of seabirds—a vivid testament to the tireless conservation efforts of Con Dao National Park.
hontrung6.jpg
Among thousands of birds from five migratory seabird species nesting here, one stands out for its remarkable tameness: chim dien bung trang (Sula leucogaster).
hontrung7.jpg
This seabird belongs to the Sula genus, and its Vietnamese name “chim dien” derives from the French word fou, used by early explorers who first identified the species.
hontrung8.jpg
On the island, these birds nest freely in crevices scattered among the rocks, entirely unafraid, protected by the complete absence of human disturbance.
hontrung9.jpg
Seen from afar, the island’s shape resembles an egg, which is why generations of locals have called it Hon Trung (Egg Island). It is a place of pristine simplicity, only rocks and birds, without large trees.
Back to top