In early January, we had the opportunity to visit Phuoc Binh National Park (NP), located in Bac Ai District, Ninh Thuan Province. This is where a rare and unique hybrid banteng cattle herd is preserved and developed – a phenomenon not only rare in Vietnam but also globally. Let’s explore the fascinating story behind these hybrid banteng cattle.
The Unique Ecosystem of Phuoc Binh NP
Phuoc Binh NP is adjacent to the Lam Vien Plateau and Bidoup-Nui Ba National Park in Lam Dong Province. With diverse natural landscapes, this area is considered a valuable “green lung” for central Vietnam. Provincial Road 656 leading to Phuoc Binh NP is lush and green, while the Song Cai reservoir brimming with water creates a stunning scene for visitors.
The Birth of the F1 Hybrid Banteng Herd
According to Mr. Nguyen Anh Tuan, Deputy Director of the Biodiversity Center, between 2009 and 2015, an adult male banteng frequently left its herd to visit the edge of Phuoc Binh forest, near Bac Ray Village. There, it mated with local farmers’ domestic cows, producing over 20 F1 hybrid banteng calves.
This banteng was 1.7 meters tall, over 2 meters long, and weighed about one ton. After passing away in 2015 due to old age, its taxidermy model is now displayed at the Environmental Education and Forest Environmental Service Center. Currently, Phuoc Binh NP is nurturing and caring for 11 hybrid banteng cattle, including F1, F2, and F3 generations.
Rearing Environment and Conservation
The hybrid banteng herd is cared for in a semi-natural area spanning over 5 hectares at the Phuoc Binh Experimental Garden. Rearing them is no easy task as the F1 hybrids retain strong wild traits. They can charge at any approaching object, including humans. Therefore, the staff at the NP must exercise extreme caution during care and management.
In 2012, Phuoc Binh NP purchased 10 hybrid banteng for research and gene preservation. Genetic analysis revealed that all hybrids possess 2n=58 chromosomes, distinct from both domestic cattle and wild banteng. This opens up potential crossbreeding opportunities with other cattle breeds to create F2 and F3 generations.
Future Development Plans
At the end of 2024, the Ninh Thuan Department of Science and Technology collaborated with Phuoc Binh NP to organize a scientific workshop to evaluate the development potential of the hybrid banteng herd. The workshop proposed various strategies for sustainable management, care, and future growth.
Using camera traps in forest compartments, the park management recorded the presence of wild banteng herds in two monitoring zones, Gia Nhong and Da Den. The estimated population ranges from 13 to 17 individuals. Signs such as footprints, dung, resting areas, and tree scratches indicate robust activity by the banteng in mixed pine forests and grasslands.
Conclusion
Phuoc Binh National Park is not only a nature conservation site but also a beacon for preserving the precious genes of hybrid banteng. Through relentless efforts, the hybrid banteng herd here has become a unique symbol, attracting attention from scientists and tourists alike. If you love nature and wildlife, don’t miss the chance to explore Phuoc Binh NP – a place preserving invaluable Vietnamese ecosystem treasures.
