Ngermeskang Bird Sanctuary

The Ngermeskang sanctuary protects a block of forest along the river of that name in western Babeldaob, set aside for Palau's endemic birds: the Palau ground dove, Palau owl, Palau fruit dove, Palau bush warbler and others found nowhere else. Around a dozen species are endemic to the archipelago. Trails run in from the road and a guide is needed to find anything. The Palau ground dove is among the least known birds in the Pacific and was not photographed in the wild until relatively recently. The sanctuary is managed jointly by the state and a conservation society.

What's there

• The endemic birds - species found only in the Palau archipelago.
• The Palau owl - the nocturnal endemic in the forest.
• The river forest - the woodland along the Ngermeskang.
• The trails - the routes in from the road through the reserve.

When to go

November to April is the drier season and the trails are firmer. Early morning is when the birds are active. The wet season brings mud.

What to expect

Sightings need a guide and considerable patience; most species are heard rather than seen. Trails are muddy and unmarked. Facilities are none.

Nearby

Ngatpang is south, and Ngardmau is northeast.