The northeast is a large plateau which is mostly comprised of dry, sandy soil. Much of the land has been deforested for centuries, and 80% of the population ply their trade as farmers. Droughts are commonplace and in the monsoon season, flooding is an all-too common occurrence. Mudslides often occur around deforested hills, resulting in loss of many lives, livelihood and property.

Few specialities are found in this area as most species found in the plains of the northeast are open-country birds which are also present throughout most of Thailand. The bulk of the birding sites are religated to the areas which are still forested, mostly around the northwest and southeastern areas near the borders with Laos and Cambodia. The decline in bird species can be attributed to the active appetities of the local peoples who are known to literally eat anything that moves. Knowing this helps to answer the question as to why the resources of the region are in such short supply.

The northeast has been populated by the Tai peoples since the founding of the First Dynasty in China.

Phu Wiang National Park (Khon Kaen)

Khao Yai National Park (Korat)

Phu Reua National Park (Loei)

Phu Kradeung National Park (Loei)

Nam Nao National Park (Petchabun)