Birding in Borneo with More than 700 Different Birds

Birdwatching in Borneo: Discover Exotic Birds of Sabah

Birdwatching in Borneo: Discover Exotic Birds of Sabah

Borneo is one of the world's premier birdwatching destinations, home to over 688 bird species with 60 species endemic to Sabah, Malaysian Borneo. From lowland rainforests to montane cloud forests, the island's diverse habitats offer birders exceptional opportunities to observe some of Southeast Asia's rarest and most spectacular birds.

Endemic and Rare Birds of Borneo

Birdwatchers visiting Borneo can encounter numerous endemic species found nowhere else on Earth. Notable endemic birds include the Bornean Bristlehead, Whitehead's Trogon, Black-sided Flowerpecker, and the mountain blackeye. The island is also home to eight species of hornbills, including the iconic Rhinoceros Hornbill and the rare Helmeted Hornbill.

Other sought-after species include the Bornean Ground Cuckoo, Blue-headed Pitta, Bornean Peacock-Pheasant, and various broadbills and babblers that attract birders from around the world.

Best Birdwatching Locations in Sabah, Borneo

Kinabatangan River is Sabah's premier lowland birdwatching destination. River cruises and forest trails offer sightings of Oriental Darter, Storm's Stork, Buffy Fish Owl, Blue-eared Kingfisher, and eight hornbill species. The riparian forests and oxbow lakes create ideal habitats for both resident and migratory birds.

Danum Valley Conservation Area protects pristine lowland dipterocarp rainforest and is considered one of Borneo's best locations for observing rare forest birds. The area's canopy walkway and extensive trail system provide access to species like the Bornean Bristlehead, Great Argus, and various pittas and trogons.

Rainforest Discovery Centre (RDC) in Sandakan features a canopy walkway reaching 26 meters high, bringing birders eye-level with the forest canopy where many species feed and nest. The centre's accessible trails and bird hides make it ideal for both serious birders and casual observers.

Kinabalu National Park offers montane birdwatching from 1,500 to 3,000 meters elevation. The cool mountain forests are home to high-altitude specialists including Whitehead's Trogon, Friendly Bush Warbler, Bornean Treepie, and the Kinabalu Friendly Warbler found only on Mount Kinabalu.

Planning Your Birdwatching Trip to Borneo

The best time for birdwatching in Borneo is during the drier months from March to October, though birds can be observed year-round. Hiring experienced local bird guides significantly increases your chances of finding endemic and rare species, as they know the calls, behaviors, and specific locations where target birds can be found.

Whether you're a serious birder seeking endemic species or a nature enthusiast wanting to experience Borneo's incredible avian diversity, Sabah offers world-class birdwatching across its varied ecosystems.