Tasek
Bera is characterized by a watery landscape dominated by large
grass-like blades of pandunas leaves which line the
narrow channels. A variety of ferns, orchids and epiphytes can
be seen attached to tree trunks while thorny rattan weave
through the undergrowth. Among the fields of metre high reeds
and rows of dense foliage found in the open water, dozens of
pitcher plants hang in shades of green and red, In the drier
areas, lowland rainforest trees and palms add to the diversity
of the wetland reserve.
Tasek
Bera is a sanctuary for more than 200 bird species, 50 mammals and
90 fish species. It
is also a habitat providing food and shelter for bird life,
including kingfishes, hawks , herons, but overall, water-birds are
strangely scarce. Though very difficult to see in the wild, the
extended wetland area and its surrounding forests still support
tigers, tapirs and elephants, all endangered species. Other wildlife
known to exist here include the clouded leopard, wild boars,
monkeys, mouse-deer, flying squirrels and flying lemur though the
endangered crocodile called the Malayan False Gharial is a rear
sight these days.
As
an important biodiversity reservoir for freshwater fishes, Tasek
Bera contains a large number of the country’s species, including
popular aquarium fish such as harlequins and tiger barbs as well as
large predatory catfish and other sport fish.
Tasek Bera is an
ecosystem supporting not only a diversity of animal and plant
life, but the livelihood of the Semelai – the aboriginal people inhabiting the wetlands.
Tasek
Bera has distinct wet and dry seasons which may determine the best
time to visit. The wet months are from April to May and from
September to January; while the dry periods are from February to
April and June to August. Note
however that some sections of the forest trails may not be
accessible during the wet months.
Visitors will
enjoy spending a few hours cruising the myriad of river
channels and inlets to explore the vegetation and search for
wildlife while boating or kayaking.
Biologically
rich in flora and fauna, the lowland rainforests offer ample
opportunities for
jungle trekking excursions.
With
over 15 types of sport fish in the rivers and lake it is a perfect
hideout for a bit of fishing. According to the local aborigines,
good fishing occurs after heavy rains.
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