Capital

Hanoi

Official Language

Vietnamese

Fun Fact

Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park hosts Hang Son Doong, the largest cave passage by volume on the planet

National Animal

Water Buffalo

Unofficial National Bird

Lạc bird (mythical)

Add a PDF file and cover image

Animal Laws of Vietman

The Animal Laws of Vietnam PDF contains the general animal protection laws and related statutes for Vietnam. Uncaged World updates these bi-annually. Always check official sources for the most up-to-date legal status.

Animals of Vietnam

Saola

Conservation Status: Critically Endangered

The Saola is one of the world's rarest large mammals, found only in the remote forests of the Annamite Mountains. Often called the "Asian unicorn," it is recognized by its slender build, dark coat, white facial markings, and long, nearly parallel horns. Saolas feed on leaves, shoots, and other forest vegetation and are extremely elusive, with very few ever seen in the wild. Habitat loss and accidental capture in wire snares have made the Saola critically endangered.

Vietnamese Mossy

Conservation Status: Least Concern

The Vietnamese Mossy Frog is a remarkable amphibian found in the moist forests and rocky streams of northern Vietnam. Recognized by its bumpy green-and-black skin that closely resembles moss, it relies on exceptional camouflage to avoid predators. It feeds mainly on insects and other small invertebrates and spends much of its time among rocks and vegetation near freshwater. Habitat loss and collection for the pet trade threaten some wild populations.

Red-shanked Douc Langur

Conservation Status: Endangered

The Red-shanked Douc Langur is a striking primate found in the forests of Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia. Often called one of the world's most beautiful monkeys, it is recognized by its bright red legs, gray body, black face, and white tail. Feeding mainly on leaves, fruits, flowers, and seeds, it spends most of its life in the forest canopy. Habitat loss and hunting have made this remarkable species endangered.

Sarus Crane

Conservation Status: Vulnerable

The Sarus Crane is the world's tallest flying bird, found in wetlands, grasslands, and agricultural fields across South and Southeast Asia and northern Australia. Recognized by its elegant gray plumage and striking red head and upper neck, it feeds on seeds, roots, insects, frogs, fish, and other small animals. Sarus Cranes are famous for their lifelong pair bonds and elaborate courtship dances. Habitat loss and wetland degradation have caused declines in many populations, making conservation of their breeding habitats increasingly important.

Water Buffalo

Conservation Status: Endangered

The Water Buffalo is a large bovine found throughout Asia and many other parts of the world. Recognized by its broad body, sweeping crescent-shaped horns, and love of water, it thrives in wetlands, grasslands, and agricultural landscapes. Water Buffaloes feed mainly on grasses and aquatic plants and have been domesticated for thousands of years, providing milk, meat, and draft power. Wild populations are endangered due to habitat loss, hunting, and hybridization with domestic buffalo.

Sun Bear

Conservation Status: Vulnerable

The Sun Bear is the smallest bear species, found in the tropical forests of Southeast Asia. Recognized by its short black fur and distinctive golden or orange crescent-shaped chest patch, it is an excellent climber that spends much of its time in trees. Sun Bears feed on fruits, insects, honey, small animals, and termites, using their long claws and tongue to reach food. Habitat loss and illegal hunting have made this unique bear vulnerable across its range.