Birding in Malaysia; The diversity of Borneo and hornbill heaven!

Edited by Travel Weekly

With diverse ecosystems like mangroves, rainforests, mountains and beaches, Malaysia is a haven for birdlife and is considered one of the world’s best birdwatching destinations.

Home to around 790 species of bird (63 of which are endemic to Malaysia) birdwatching plays a key role in the nation’s tourism industry with bird enthusiasts spending more and staying longer on average – i.e. they high-yield tourists!

Borneo Bristlehead. Photo: Jamil Mat Isa (Supplied).

Malaysia is recognised as one of the world’s 12 megadiverse countries, a distinction given to nations that harbour the majority of Earth’s species and are therefore considered extremely biodiverse. The country is home to over 700 species of birds, accounting for roughly 8 per cent of the world’s total bird species. Impressively, Malaysia also boasts over 60 endemic species (those found nowhere else on Earth) which draws in a strong cohort of high-yield tourists each year.

Birding in Borneo

The national parks of Sabah and Sarawak, located in Malaysian Borneo are a must-do for any avid birdwatcher with dense rainforests and hundreds of beautiful birds waiting to be seen.

However, there are some slight differences between the two that birdwatchers should be aware of.

Firstly, Sabah in the north is known for lowland rainforests, coastal areas and montane forests like Mount Kinabalu. Situated below is Sarawak, which features sprawling river systems and wetlands as well as stunning limestone formations like the Mulu Caves.

Male Bornean Banded Pitta – Hydrornis schwaneri – Photo: Jamil Mat Isa (Supplied).

Because of their differing landscapes, the two destinations can provide unique birdwatching experiences for travellers.

Sabah is especially famous for its highland bird species like those found around Mount Kinabalu like the Bornean Bristlehead, Kinabalu Friendly Warbler and a range of endemic montane birds. It offers a varied experience for birdwatchers with highlights including Kinabalu Park, Danum Valley, Tabin Wildlife Reserve, and Sepilok. Infrastructure for birdwatching is more developed in Sabah with numerous lodges and guided tours available.

Sarawak on the other hand is a favourite for the Mulu National Park and an abundance of forest birds and lowland species like the Bornean Peacock-Pheasant, Bornean Banded Pitta, and the rare Black Oriole. Sarawak is a more immersive birding experience, especially in its lowland and swampy areas with an ethos focused on exploring rich rainforests and discovering rare species.

Conservation is a key area of concern in both Sabah and Sarawak, the latter of which is home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Mulu National Park, though runs into challenges in the way of logging and palm oil plantations. Sabah on the other hand has well-protected areas like the Kinabalu Park and Danum Valley as well as a growing eco-tourism market and awareness of bird conservation.

Belum National Park – Hornbill Heaven

Belum National Park is often referred to as the “Hornbill Capital of the World” thanks to the ten types of hornbills found within its borders. During the fruiting season, birdwatchers flock to the park to witness the sight of thousands of Hornbills flying in large flocks, something that is becoming increasingly rare in other parts of Southeast Asia.

Oriental Pied Hornbill. Photo: Jamil Mat Isa (Supplied).

Species of hornbills that can be spotted include the majestic Rhinoceros Hornbill, known for its distinctive casque and The Helmeted Hornbill which is a favourite when spotted because it is currently under threat from poaching. The park is also home to the smaller Oriental Pied Hornbill and the unique White-crowned Hornbill.

It’s diversity serves a testament to the health and richness of this ecosystem, making it a crucial site for conservation efforts.

Belum National Park is not just about hornbills; it is a biodiversity hotspot teeming with a wide range of other wildlife species.

The park is one of the few places in Malaysia where the Malayan Tiger still roams freely.

Malayan tiger (iStock – alexmatamata).

This apex predator, symbolising the wild heart of Malaysia, is critically endangered with fewer than 150 individuals estimated to remain in the wild.

Birdwatching Etiquettes and Tips

Bornean Green Magpie – Cissa Jefferyi. Photo Hafiz Ikhlas. (Supplied)

While birdwatching, it is crucial to respect the birds’ habitat. Avoid making loud noises, littering, or disturbing the birds. Use binoculars or a telescope for a closer look without invading their space.

To find out more about birding in Malaysia, head to the Nest Society Website HERE or to Tourism Malaysia’s website HERE.

Feature image: Whitehead’s Broadbill – Calyptomena whiteheadi: Photo. Jamil Mat Isa (Supplied).

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Birding in Malaysia