 Malaysia
is separated into two main birding regions – Peninsular
Malaysia, and the state of Sabah and Sarawak
on the island of Borneo. Many birds are common
to both geographic areas though some species,
known as endemics are unique to a certain location,
such as the Malayan Whistling Trush in the peninsula
and the Borneo Blue Flycatcher and Yellow – rumped
Flowerpecker in Sabah. Underscoring the importance
of forests, birding activities are concentrated
in three distinctive habitat types – montane
forests, lowland rainforests and mangroves. Montane
forests generally occur above an elevation of
900 meters where species such as the Mountain
 Peacock- Pheasant and Mountain Blackeye thrive,
in the cool damp climates and stunted trees of
these high altitude regions.
Lowland rainforests, including
freshwater swamp, peat and hill dipterocarp forests,
remain and most extensive habitat for over 200
birds and are crucial to Storm’s Stork
and Green Imperial Pigeon.
Other birds such as the Common Kingfisher depend on the mangrove forest ecosystems where salt and freshwater environs meet on the coastline fringe. While each habitat provides an excellent birding experience, try to visit several sites in different ecological zones to enjoy the variation in birdlife. |
These
sites are easily accessible by bus or car and
are equipped with a variety of accommodation
for those who wish to spend time away from the
city.
