Tag: Siberia

Categories
Tourism Malaysia

MALAYSIA’S 8 BEST KEPT SECRETS FOR BIRD LOVERS!

If you’ve watched animation movie Rio (2011) or The Big Year (2011) played by Steve Martin and Owen Wilson, you might have changed your perception about the winged animals prominently featured in these films. Yes, birds are actually one interesting type of reptile, attracting the attention of ornithologists and the casual nature lover alike.

These creatures – some of them rare, nomadic, mysterious, and beautiful – occupy a variety of habitats. They nest in urban parks, while some others hide away in forests. There have been stories of people venturing deep into the jungles of continents for a single satisfying glimpse of these feathered friends.

We may observe them, but they remain “untouchable.” Perhaps that is what makes them such fascinating creatures to us all, and the reason why birdwatching is a passionate pursuit for many, especially among the hipster generation now.

Malaysia, blessed with its tropical nature and greenery, is certainly one of the best bird-watching destinations in the world, with many species easily observable.

 

Let’s see why Malaysia should be your next birdwatching destination!

  1. After South America, Asia has the second largest concentration of birds in the world, and Malaysia boasts a total of 790 species nationwide in both Peninsular and East Malaysia, plus over 100 species of migratory birds.
  2. Malaysia has 55 Important Birds Area (IBA) covering a total of 5.1 million hectares of mangroves land, forests and parks (www.birdinginmalaysia.com). There are 63 species of endemic birds in Malaysia (nowhere else in the world can you find them but here) along with other rare and endangered species such as Silvery Pigeons, Christmas Frigatebirds, Spoon-billed Sandpipes and Helmeted Hornbills.
  3. The migration season for birds coming from Siberia, Manchuria and China to Malaysia starts around September annually, up until early April when it’s time to return to the north. This is the perfect time to observe the arrival of Oriental Honey buzzard, Siberian Thrush and Yellow-rumped Flycatcher after a long flight from home.
  4. The well-known birding sites in Peninsular Malaysia are Fraser’s Hill and Taman Negara which are easily accessible over a 2 or 3 hours’ drive respectively from the nation’s capital of Kuala Lumpur. Meanwhile, over in Sabah, Kinabalu Park, Kinabatangan River and Danum Valley are well known birding destinations. In Sarawak, there are 20 IBAs which are home to 500 species of birds, especially in Bako National Park. Good transport infrastructure allows quick and easy travel between the different birding sites. 

  5. There are several interesting birding routes in Malaysia that each offer different experiences and allow birdwatchers to observe different species of birds. In Peninsular Malaysia there are the Central Route, Central Route Plus and the captivating Northern (Hornbill) Route. These routes cover the crowd–favourite venues such as Taman Negara, home to 350 bird species including Hornbills, Trogons, Barbets and Great Argus. Migratory birds also can be viewed in Langkawi, Kedah and Tg. Tuan, Melaka.
  6. Up north in the state of Perak and just a 2-hour drive from Penang is The Royal Belum Park. The Royal Belum Park is home to an impressive 10 species of hornbills. Some even call it the Hornbill Capital of the World! There is no other place on the planet relative to the size of the area where tourists can find that many number of species of hornbills.
  7. Meanwhile, in East Malaysia there are two well-known routes, namely Borneo (Sabah) Route and Borneo (Sarawak) Route – that covers lowland forest to montane and lower montane which promise many species – such as Malaysian Treepies, Ashy Drongos, Mountain Leaf Warblers or bulbuls.
  8. In the care of skilled and experienced Malaysian birdwatching guides, your chances of seeing your target birds are greatly enhanced. With the right equipment such as potable blinds (camouflage tents), the guide can bring you up close to view the beautiful and vulnerable Malayan Peacock Pheasant and – when the timing is right – even to witness its behaviour during the courtship season!  A well organised birdwatching tour, lasting approximately 14 days, may result in an impressive 200 to 230 species of birds!

 

Contacts:

Tour Agency: Natural History Tours (bird-malaysia.com or junglewalla.com)
Address:        1C, Lot 1392 Jalan Tanjung Rhu, 07000 Langkawi
Website:        www.jungewalla.com
Email:             info@bird-malaysia.com or jungewalla@gmail.com
Contact:         + 6019 5902 300 or + 6012 4870 600

Tour Agency: Ecotourism Conservation Society (ECOMY)

Address:        28, Jalan Spektrum U16/21, Taman Bukit Subang, 40160 Shah Alam, Selangor
Website:        www.ecomy.org
Email:             ecotourismmalaysia@gmail.com
Contact:         +6019 3745246

Categories
Tourism Malaysia

Chasing Birds Across the Peninsular Malaysia

CHASING BIRDS ACROSS THE PENINSULAR MALAYSIA

The birds have started singing. This is us calling all birders from all over the world to gear up and put on your favourite pair of khakis, a birding vest, a floppy hat and a pair of binoculars, as well as take out your passport; then jump on a plane and head straight to the Peninsular Malaysia where various birding events are being held to “welcome” the migratory birds.

Malaysia is blessed with an abundance of biodiversity, ranking 12th globally in terms of mega-biodiversity. Our incredible natural assets — virgin jungle, beautiful islands, cool highlands, and more — come together to provide the perfect habitat and ecosystem for the animal kingdom, not least our feathered friends.

A total of 795 species of birds have been recorded in Malaysia with over 60 species considered as endemic birds, and nearly 60% is in the state of Pahang and Langkawi Island. The variety of climates and habitats has resulted in this region becoming extremely diverse in terms of birds species. The diverse bird population combined with the wonderful scenery and friendly people make any visit to Malaysia an unforgettable experience for the veteran or first timer birder.

Malaysia also lies in the path of the East Asian-Australasian Flyway that provides strategic and important resting sites for migratory birds flying between wintering sites in Southeast Asia and Australia and the breeding sites in China, Japan, Korean, Mongolia and Siberia.

For those who are not aware, there are nearly 12,000 sites in 218 countries identified as Important Bird Areas or IBA. For an area to qualify as an IBA, it must meet a set of standardized criteria based on the presence of species that are of worldwide conservation concern.

The Malaysian Nature Society has identified 55 Important Bird Areas in Malaysia, of which 18 are in Peninsular Malaysia. It was reported that the local birdwatching sites in Malaysia have recorded increasing numbers of bird watchers, pointing to the fact that more visitors acknowledge and are becoming receptive to the importance of nature and wildlife.

Peninsular Malaysia alone is home to a total of 644 species of birds, where 445 of them are residents while 232 are migrants. Four species are endemic to the Thai- Malayan Peninsular, three of which are entirely confined to Peninsular Malaysia. The Peninsular is also an important migratory stop for birds from Siberia, Manchuria and China.

Migratory birds fly across Malaysia – and over thousands of kilometres annually – to escape the cold winter or to reach breeding grounds. So, birders, prepare yourself for a day in the wild to get a glimpse of these beautiful creatures.

Here is the list of birding events that birders can look forward to in the coming months:

RAPTOR WATCH 2018

Raptor Watch is held annually on the first weekend of March. For the year 2018 the event will be held on 10 and 11 March (Saturday-Sunday). However, the spring raptor migration actually begins in mid-February and lasts till mid-April. Actually, birders can still go anytime within this period to see the birds but the peak period to watch the most number of birds is the first weekend of March.

Apart from watching the raptors, which is the main stars of the event, participants can also take part in various other activities such as guided walks, arts craft and games.

This event will give birders and the general public the opportunity to witness one of nature’s most exquisite offerings. Raptors migrate southward to escape the bitter cold of the northern winters and make the same venturous journey back during spring to their breeding grounds in temperate Asia.

During the spring migration, thousands of raptors can be seen flying across the Straits of Malacca. Having to use massive amount of energy flying across the Straits of Malacca, the raptors will be flying low at the event site making it possible to have a good view of these magnificent birds.

Tanjung Tuan has been listed as an important raptor site by BirdLife International, National Geographic Society and Hawkmountain. This place is an important stop over site for migratory raptors after crossing the Straits of Malacca. It provides food for the raptors as well as a resting spot. For raptors arriving late in the evening, it provides shelter for the night before they take off for flight the next day. Without Tanjung Tuan, many raptors may never make it back, due to exhaustion and lack of food.

Date : 10 – 11 March 2018
Venue : Tanjung Tuan Forest Reserve, Port Dickson, Negeri Sembilan
Organiser : Malaysian Nature Society (MNS)
Tel : 03-2287 9422

Fax : 03-2287 8773 Email : mns@mns.org.my Website : www.mns.my / https://mnsraptorwatch.wordpress.com FB Page : https://www.facebook.com/MalaysianNatureSociety.Official

TAMAN NEGARA BIRD COUNT (TNBC) 2018

Taman Negara is home to over 479 species of birds. As Malaysia’s premier National Park, Taman Negara has the highest concentration of birds in the country and the number is unmatched by any other wildlife area in the region.

Get yourself prepared to spot and count the various bird species at Malaysia’s premier National Park, Taman Negara, by participating in the Taman Negara Bird Count, which is organised by BirdGroup Taman Negara (BGTN). Participants will be able to observe rarely seen birds and learn about their habitat.

Now in its fifth year, the number of species recorded during the Bird Count event has risen from 76 species in 2014 to 171 in 2017. For the three-day event in 2018, the organiser aims to record an even higher number of bird species with larger area of coverage.

Participants will be divided into groups and each group will be led by a licensed Nature Guide.

Join them and be part of this exciting and educational conservation programme.

COUNT FOR FUN!
COUNT FOR CONSERVATION!
COUNT OF FUTURE GENERATION!

Date : 16 – 18 March 2018
Venue : Kg Kuala Tahan/ Taman Negara, Jerantut, Pahang
Organiser : BirdGroup Taman Negara
Tel : Roslan Kassim (014-6051663), Aki Jalil (019-9965263), or
Sabri (014-8393900)

Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/Taman-Negara-Bird-Count

FRASER’S HILL INTERNATIONAL BIRD RACE 2018

Fraser’s Hill is often been referred to as a first-class bird watching destination in this region, since this highland paradise is home to more than 250 species of wild birds. Come November and December each year, the virtually untouched mountainous forests of Fraser’s Hill will receive many species of newcomers, that is the migratory species that fly across from places as far as northern Siberia of Russia and islands north of Japan and neighbouring land mass, to seek new feeding grounds as well as to escape the freezing winter up north.

The sightings of Siberian thrush from Siberia are often reported and they are truly a rare treat to ardent bird watchers. Normally these migratory species stay around in Fraser’s Hill for couple of months before migrating southwards to Australia and New Zealand. They will fly back home to the north in March and April when the sun is getting sunnier. Be part of this international event!

The objectives of the Fraser’s Hill International Bird Race are to preserve nature and simultaneously to promote Fraser’s Hill as a bird sanctuary. Even though there are other bird watching destinations in the country, Fraser’s Hill is still a preferred destination because large species of mountain birds thrive comfortably in the most conductive habitats here, and at certain times of the year, migratory birds make their presence felt, although briefly.

The competition will be divided into three distinctive categories -the advanced category for the serious and experienced bird watchers who habitually return to Fraser’s Hill at the slightest opportunity to do trial field runs, the novice category for those who have just taken up bird watching out of curiosity or treat bird watching as an academic hobby, and the local category for the local residents who know the whereabouts of the birds in Fraser’s Hill and see the birds every day.

Date : 30 March – 1 April 2018
Venue : Fraser’s Hill, Raub, Pahang
Organiser : Frasers Hill Development Corporation
Tel : 09-5681623/ 24
Fax : 09-5681626

Website : http://www.pahangtourism.org.my

KENYIR BIRD NATURE QUEST 2018

When you find out that nine out of ten species of hornbills in Malaysia can be found in Terengganu, what is there to stop you from organising a birding event that can spur the interest of birders from all over the world to visit this beautiful state.

The Malaysian Nature Society, Kuala Terengganu branch and Ping Anchorage MICE have once again taken the initiative to hold “Kenyir Bird Nature Quest” for the sixth time. The two-day event happening in March will include lectures, workshops, and activities such as bird watching, elephants tracking and jungle trekking.

Terengganu actually has a total of 290 species of birds and among them is the world’s fastest bird, the peregrine falcon. Surrounded by lush tropical rainforest, the idyllic and beautiful Tasik or Lake Kenyir is a perfect paradise for nature lovers…and apparently our feathered friends think so, too!

Date : 24 – 25 March 2018
Venue : Tasik Kenyir, Bukit Lawit (Kenyir Hornbill Valley), Terengganu
Organiser : Malaysia Nature Society (Kuala Terengganu Branch) Ping Anchorage

MICE
Tel : 09-6262020
Fax : 09-6262022

Email : info@terengganutourism.com Website : www.terengganutourism.com

WINGS OF KKB – SELANGOR INTERNATIONAL BIRD RACE

This annual event celebrates the diversity of bird species between the Selangor-Pahang border. Participants of the event will traverse a route from Kuala Kubu Bharu in Selangor to Taman Millenium, a former mining pool where birds are known to visit and rest at the lake or surrounding jungle. From here, birdwatchers will proceed to Hulu Tamu for a chance to spot birds hanging out at this hotsprings area.

Further along, birdwatchers will visit Sungai Kedondong, a waterfall area, where tiger shrikes and whiskered treeswifts can be seen, before finally ascending to Resorts World Genting where cooler temperatures attract high altitude mountain birds.

The Wings of KKB event is not only for bird enthusiasts, but also welcomes photographers who are interested in wildlife photography for the abundance of opportunities and subject matters available.

Date: 20 – 22 April 2018
Venue: Kuala Kubu Bharu, Selangor
Organiser: Majlis Daerah Hulu Selangor
Tel: 03-6064 1331 Email: aduan@mdhs.gov.my
Website: www.facebook.com/OfficialMDHS or http://wingsofkkb.blogspot.my/

Categories
Tourism Malaysia

Chasing Birds Across the Peninsular Malaysia

CHASING BIRDS ACROSS THE PENINSULAR MALAYSIA

The birds have started singing. This is us calling all birders from all over the world to gear up and put on your favourite pair of khakis, a birding vest, a floppy hat and a pair of binoculars, as well as take out your passport; then jump on a plane and head straight to the Peninsular Malaysia where various birding events are being held to “welcome” the migratory birds.

Malaysia is blessed with an abundance of biodiversity, ranking 12th globally in terms of mega-biodiversity. Our incredible natural assets — virgin jungle, beautiful islands, cool highlands, and more — come together to provide the perfect habitat and ecosystem for the animal kingdom, not least our feathered friends.

A total of 795 species of birds have been recorded in Malaysia with over 60 species considered as endemic birds, and nearly 60% is in the state of Pahang and Langkawi Island. The variety of climates and habitats has resulted in this region becoming extremely diverse in terms of birds species. The diverse bird population combined with the wonderful scenery and friendly people make any visit to Malaysia an unforgettable experience for the veteran or first timer birder.

Malaysia also lies in the path of the East Asian-Australasian Flyway that provides strategic and important resting sites for migratory birds flying between wintering sites in Southeast Asia and Australia and the breeding sites in China, Japan, Korean, Mongolia and Siberia.

For those who are not aware, there are nearly 12,000 sites in 218 countries identified as Important Bird Areas or IBA. For an area to qualify as an IBA, it must meet a set of standardized criteria based on the presence of species that are of worldwide conservation concern.

The Malaysian Nature Society has identified 55 Important Bird Areas in Malaysia, of which 18 are in Peninsular Malaysia. It was reported that the local birdwatching sites in Malaysia have recorded increasing numbers of bird watchers, pointing to the fact that more visitors acknowledge and are becoming receptive to the importance of nature and wildlife.

Peninsular Malaysia alone is home to a total of 644 species of birds, where 445 of them are residents while 232 are migrants. Four species are endemic to the Thai- Malayan Peninsular, three of which are entirely confined to Peninsular Malaysia. The Peninsular is also an important migratory stop for birds from Siberia, Manchuria and China.

Migratory birds fly across Malaysia – and over thousands of kilometres annually – to escape the cold winter or to reach breeding grounds. So, birders, prepare yourself for a day in the wild to get a glimpse of these beautiful creatures.

Here is the list of birding events that birders can look forward to in the coming months:

RAPTOR WATCH 2018

Raptor Watch is held annually on the first weekend of March. For the year 2018 the event will be held on 10 and 11 March (Saturday-Sunday). However, the spring raptor migration actually begins in mid-February and lasts till mid-April. Actually, birders can still go anytime within this period to see the birds but the peak period to watch the most number of birds is the first weekend of March.

Apart from watching the raptors, which is the main stars of the event, participants can also take part in various other activities such as guided walks, arts craft and games.

This event will give birders and the general public the opportunity to witness one of nature’s most exquisite offerings. Raptors migrate southward to escape the bitter cold of the northern winters and make the same venturous journey back during spring to their breeding grounds in temperate Asia.

During the spring migration, thousands of raptors can be seen flying across the Straits of Malacca. Having to use massive amount of energy flying across the Straits of Malacca, the raptors will be flying low at the event site making it possible to have a good view of these magnificent birds.

Tanjung Tuan has been listed as an important raptor site by BirdLife International, National Geographic Society and Hawkmountain. This place is an important stop over site for migratory raptors after crossing the Straits of Malacca. It provides food for the raptors as well as a resting spot. For raptors arriving late in the evening, it provides shelter for the night before they take off for flight the next day. Without Tanjung Tuan, many raptors may never make it back, due to exhaustion and lack of food.

Date : 10 – 11 March 2018
Venue : Tanjung Tuan Forest Reserve, Port Dickson, Negeri Sembilan
Organiser : Malaysian Nature Society (MNS)
Tel : 03-2287 9422

Fax : 03-2287 8773 Email : mns@mns.org.my Website : www.mns.my / https://mnsraptorwatch.wordpress.com FB Page : https://www.facebook.com/MalaysianNatureSociety.Official

TAMAN NEGARA BIRD COUNT (TNBC) 2018

Taman Negara is home to over 479 species of birds. As Malaysia’s premier National Park, Taman Negara has the highest concentration of birds in the country and the number is unmatched by any other wildlife area in the region.

Get yourself prepared to spot and count the various bird species at Malaysia’s premier National Park, Taman Negara, by participating in the Taman Negara Bird Count, which is organised by BirdGroup Taman Negara (BGTN). Participants will be able to observe rarely seen birds and learn about their habitat.

Now in its fifth year, the number of species recorded during the Bird Count event has risen from 76 species in 2014 to 171 in 2017. For the three-day event in 2018, the organiser aims to record an even higher number of bird species with larger area of coverage.

Participants will be divided into groups and each group will be led by a licensed Nature Guide.

Join them and be part of this exciting and educational conservation programme.

COUNT FOR FUN!
COUNT FOR CONSERVATION!
COUNT OF FUTURE GENERATION!

Date : 16 – 18 March 2018
Venue : Kg Kuala Tahan/ Taman Negara, Jerantut, Pahang
Organiser : BirdGroup Taman Negara
Tel : Roslan Kassim (014-6051663), Aki Jalil (019-9965263), or
Sabri (014-8393900)

Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/Taman-Negara-Bird-Count

FRASER’S HILL INTERNATIONAL BIRD RACE 2018

Fraser’s Hill is often been referred to as a first-class bird watching destination in this region, since this highland paradise is home to more than 250 species of wild birds. Come November and December each year, the virtually untouched mountainous forests of Fraser’s Hill will receive many species of newcomers, that is the migratory species that fly across from places as far as northern Siberia of Russia and islands north of Japan and neighbouring land mass, to seek new feeding grounds as well as to escape the freezing winter up north.

The sightings of Siberian thrush from Siberia are often reported and they are truly a rare treat to ardent bird watchers. Normally these migratory species stay around in Fraser’s Hill for couple of months before migrating southwards to Australia and New Zealand. They will fly back home to the north in March and April when the sun is getting sunnier. Be part of this international event!

The objectives of the Fraser’s Hill International Bird Race are to preserve nature and simultaneously to promote Fraser’s Hill as a bird sanctuary. Even though there are other bird watching destinations in the country, Fraser’s Hill is still a preferred destination because large species of mountain birds thrive comfortably in the most conductive habitats here, and at certain times of the year, migratory birds make their presence felt, although briefly.

The competition will be divided into three distinctive categories -the advanced category for the serious and experienced bird watchers who habitually return to Fraser’s Hill at the slightest opportunity to do trial field runs, the novice category for those who have just taken up bird watching out of curiosity or treat bird watching as an academic hobby, and the local category for the local residents who know the whereabouts of the birds in Fraser’s Hill and see the birds every day.

Date : 30 March – 1 April 2018
Venue : Fraser’s Hill, Raub, Pahang
Organiser : Frasers Hill Development Corporation
Tel : 09-5681623/ 24
Fax : 09-5681626

Website : http://www.pahangtourism.org.my

KENYIR BIRD NATURE QUEST 2018

When you find out that nine out of ten species of hornbills in Malaysia can be found in Terengganu, what is there to stop you from organising a birding event that can spur the interest of birders from all over the world to visit this beautiful state.

The Malaysian Nature Society, Kuala Terengganu branch and Ping Anchorage MICE have once again taken the initiative to hold “Kenyir Bird Nature Quest” for the sixth time. The two-day event happening in March will include lectures, workshops, and activities such as bird watching, elephants tracking and jungle trekking.

Terengganu actually has a total of 290 species of birds and among them is the world’s fastest bird, the peregrine falcon. Surrounded by lush tropical rainforest, the idyllic and beautiful Tasik or Lake Kenyir is a perfect paradise for nature lovers…and apparently our feathered friends think so, too!

Date : 24 – 25 March 2018
Venue : Tasik Kenyir, Bukit Lawit (Kenyir Hornbill Valley), Terengganu
Organiser : Malaysia Nature Society (Kuala Terengganu Branch) Ping Anchorage

MICE
Tel : 09-6262020
Fax : 09-6262022

Email : info@terengganutourism.com Website : www.terengganutourism.com

WINGS OF KKB – SELANGOR INTERNATIONAL BIRD RACE

This annual event celebrates the diversity of bird species between the Selangor-Pahang border. Participants of the event will traverse a route from Kuala Kubu Bharu in Selangor to Taman Millenium, a former mining pool where birds are known to visit and rest at the lake or surrounding jungle. From here, birdwatchers will proceed to Hulu Tamu for a chance to spot birds hanging out at this hotsprings area.

Further along, birdwatchers will visit Sungai Kedondong, a waterfall area, where tiger shrikes and whiskered treeswifts can be seen, before finally ascending to Resorts World Genting where cooler temperatures attract high altitude mountain birds.

The Wings of KKB event is not only for bird enthusiasts, but also welcomes photographers who are interested in wildlife photography for the abundance of opportunities and subject matters available.

Date: 20 – 22 April 2018
Venue: Kuala Kubu Bharu, Selangor
Organiser: Majlis Daerah Hulu Selangor
Tel: 03-6064 1331 Email: aduan@mdhs.gov.my
Website: www.facebook.com/OfficialMDHS or http://wingsofkkb.blogspot.my/

Categories
Tourism Malaysia

Chasing Birds Across the Paninsular Malaysia

CHASING BIRDS ACROSS THE PENINSULAR MALAYSIA

The birds have started singing. This is us calling all birders from all over the world to gear up and put on your favourite pair of khakis, a birding vest, a floppy hat and a pair of binoculars, as well as take out your passport; then jump on a plane and head straight to the Peninsular Malaysia where various birding events are being held to “welcome” the migratory birds.

Malaysia is blessed with an abundance of biodiversity, ranking 12th globally in terms of mega-biodiversity. Our incredible natural assets — virgin jungle, beautiful islands, cool highlands, and more — come together to provide the perfect habitat and ecosystem for the animal kingdom, not least our feathered friends.

A total of 795 species of birds have been recorded in Malaysia with over 60 species considered as endemic birds, and nearly 60% is in the state of Pahang and Langkawi Island. The variety of climates and habitats has resulted in this region becoming extremely diverse in terms of birds species. The diverse bird population combined with the wonderful scenery and friendly people make any visit to Malaysia an unforgettable experience for the veteran or first timer birder.

Malaysia also lies in the path of the East Asian-Australasian Flyway that provides strategic and important resting sites for migratory birds flying between wintering sites in Southeast Asia and Australia and the breeding sites in China, Japan, Korean, Mongolia and Siberia.

For those who are not aware, there are nearly 12,000 sites in 218 countries identified as Important Bird Areas or IBA. For an area to qualify as an IBA, it must meet a set of standardized criteria based on the presence of species that are of worldwide conservation concern.

The Malaysian Nature Society has identified 55 Important Bird Areas in Malaysia, of which 18 are in Peninsular Malaysia. It was reported that the local birdwatching sites in Malaysia have recorded increasing numbers of bird watchers, pointing to the fact that more visitors acknowledge and are becoming receptive to the importance of nature and wildlife.

Peninsular Malaysia alone is home to a total of 644 species of birds, where 445 of them are residents while 232 are migrants. Four species are endemic to the Thai- Malayan Peninsular, three of which are entirely confined to Peninsular Malaysia. The Peninsular is also an important migratory stop for birds from Siberia, Manchuria and China.

Migratory birds fly across Malaysia – and over thousands of kilometres annually – to escape the cold winter or to reach breeding grounds. So, birders, prepare yourself for a day in the wild to get a glimpse of these beautiful creatures.

Here is the list of birding events that birders can look forward to in the coming months:

RAPTOR WATCH 2018

Raptor Watch is held annually on the first weekend of March. For the year 2018 the event will be held on 10 and 11 March (Saturday-Sunday). However, the spring raptor migration actually begins in mid-February and lasts till mid-April. Actually, birders can still go anytime within this period to see the birds but the peak period to watch the most number of birds is the first weekend of March.

Apart from watching the raptors, which is the main stars of the event, participants can also take part in various other activities such as guided walks, arts craft and games.

This event will give birders and the general public the opportunity to witness one of nature’s most exquisite offerings. Raptors migrate southward to escape the bitter cold of the northern winters and make the same venturous journey back during spring to their breeding grounds in temperate Asia.

During the spring migration, thousands of raptors can be seen flying across the Straits of Malacca. Having to use massive amount of energy flying across the Straits of Malacca, the raptors will be flying low at the event site making it possible to have a good view of these magnificent birds.

Tanjung Tuan has been listed as an important raptor site by BirdLife International, National Geographic Society and Hawkmountain. This place is an important stop over site for migratory raptors after crossing the Straits of Malacca. It provides food for the raptors as well as a resting spot. For raptors arriving late in the evening, it provides shelter for the night before they take off for flight the next day. Without Tanjung Tuan, many raptors may never make it back, due to exhaustion and lack of food.

Date : 10 – 11 March 2018
Venue : Tanjung Tuan Forest Reserve, Port Dickson, Negeri Sembilan
Organiser : Malaysian Nature Society (MNS)
Tel : 03-2287 9422

Fax : 03-2287 8773 Email : mns@mns.org.my Website : www.mns.my / https://mnsraptorwatch.wordpress.com FB Page : https://www.facebook.com/MalaysianNatureSociety.Official

TAMAN NEGARA BIRD COUNT (TNBC) 2018

Taman Negara is home to over 479 species of birds. As Malaysia’s premier National Park, Taman Negara has the highest concentration of birds in the country and the number is unmatched by any other wildlife area in the region.

Get yourself prepared to spot and count the various bird species at Malaysia’s premier National Park, Taman Negara, by participating in the Taman Negara Bird Count, which is organised by BirdGroup Taman Negara (BGTN). Participants will be able to observe rarely seen birds and learn about their habitat.

Now in its fifth year, the number of species recorded during the Bird Count event has risen from 76 species in 2014 to 171 in 2017. For the three-day event in 2018, the organiser aims to record an even higher number of bird species with larger area of coverage.

Participants will be divided into groups and each group will be led by a licensed Nature Guide.

Join them and be part of this exciting and educational conservation programme.

COUNT FOR FUN!
COUNT FOR CONSERVATION!
COUNT OF FUTURE GENERATION!

Date : 16 – 18 March 2018
Venue : Kg Kuala Tahan/ Taman Negara, Jerantut, Pahang
Organiser : BirdGroup Taman Negara
Tel : Roslan Kassim (014-6051663), Aki Jalil (019-9965263), or
Sabri (014-8393900)

Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/Taman-Negara-Bird-Count

FRASER’S HILL INTERNATIONAL BIRD RACE 2018

Fraser’s Hill is often been referred to as a first-class bird watching destination in this region, since this highland paradise is home to more than 250 species of wild birds. Come November and December each year, the virtually untouched mountainous forests of Fraser’s Hill will receive many species of newcomers, that is the migratory species that fly across from places as far as northern Siberia of Russia and islands north of Japan and neighbouring land mass, to seek new feeding grounds as well as to escape the freezing winter up north.

The sightings of Siberian thrush from Siberia are often reported and they are truly a rare treat to ardent bird watchers. Normally these migratory species stay around in Fraser’s Hill for couple of months before migrating southwards to Australia and New Zealand. They will fly back home to the north in March and April when the sun is getting sunnier. Be part of this international event!

The objectives of the Fraser’s Hill International Bird Race are to preserve nature and simultaneously to promote Fraser’s Hill as a bird sanctuary. Even though there are other bird watching destinations in the country, Fraser’s Hill is still a preferred destination because large species of mountain birds thrive comfortably in the most conductive habitats here, and at certain times of the year, migratory birds make their presence felt, although briefly.

The competition will be divided into three distinctive categories -the advanced category for the serious and experienced bird watchers who habitually return to Fraser’s Hill at the slightest opportunity to do trial field runs, the novice category for those who have just taken up bird watching out of curiosity or treat bird watching as an academic hobby, and the local category for the local residents who know the whereabouts of the birds in Fraser’s Hill and see the birds every day.

Date : 30 March – 1 April 2018
Venue : Fraser’s Hill, Raub, Pahang
Organiser : Frasers Hill Development Corporation
Tel : 09-5681623/ 24
Fax : 09-5681626

Website : http://www.pahangtourism.org.my

KENYIR BIRD NATURE QUEST 2018

When you find out that nine out of ten species of hornbills in Malaysia can be found in Terengganu, what is there to stop you from organising a birding event that can spur the interest of birders from all over the world to visit this beautiful state.

The Malaysian Nature Society, Kuala Terengganu branch and Ping Anchorage MICE have once again taken the initiative to hold “Kenyir Bird Nature Quest” for the sixth time. The two-day event happening in March will include lectures, workshops, and activities such as bird watching, elephants tracking and jungle trekking.

Terengganu actually has a total of 290 species of birds and among them is the world’s fastest bird, the peregrine falcon. Surrounded by lush tropical rainforest, the idyllic and beautiful Tasik or Lake Kenyir is a perfect paradise for nature lovers…and apparently our feathered friends think so, too!

Date : 24 – 25 March 2018
Venue : Tasik Kenyir, Bukit Lawit (Kenyir Hornbill Valley), Terengganu
Organiser : Malaysia Nature Society (Kuala Terengganu Branch) Ping Anchorage

MICE
Tel : 09-6262020
Fax : 09-6262022

Email : info@terengganutourism.com Website : www.terengganutourism.com

WINGS OF KKB – SELANGOR INTERNATIONAL BIRD RACE

This annual event celebrates the diversity of bird species between the Selangor-Pahang border. Participants of the event will traverse a route from Kuala Kubu Bharu in Selangor to Taman Millenium, a former mining pool where birds are known to visit and rest at the lake or surrounding jungle. From here, birdwatchers will proceed to Hulu Tamu for a chance to spot birds hanging out at this hotsprings area.

Further along, birdwatchers will visit Sungai Kedondong, a waterfall area, where tiger shrikes and whiskered treeswifts can be seen, before finally ascending to Resorts World Genting where cooler temperatures attract high altitude mountain birds.

The Wings of KKB event is not only for bird enthusiasts, but also welcomes photographers who are interested in wildlife photography for the abundance of opportunities and subject matters available.

Date: 20 – 22 April 2018
Venue: Kuala Kubu Bharu, Selangor
Organiser: Majlis Daerah Hulu Selangor
Tel: 03-6064 1331 Email: aduan@mdhs.gov.my
Website: www.facebook.com/OfficialMDHS or http://wingsofkkb.blogspot.my/

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Cuisine in Melaka

RAPTOR WATCH 2012 (MARCH 10-11) IS BACK

23 February 2012 | last updated at 12:34am

Raptor Watch takes flight for 13th straight year

MALACCA: Raptor Watch, one of the region’s biggest bird-watching events, promises yet another exciting spectacle this year.
Organised by the Malaysian Nature Society (MNS) in partnership with the Malacca government, the event will take place for the 13th straight year at PNB Ilham Resort, near Tanjung Tuan, on March 10 and 11.

Every year, spectators get to see thousands of raptors, also known as birds of prey, migrate north to their breeding grounds in Siberia, China, the Korean peninsula and Japan from their winter refuge in the south.

Tanjung Tuan, which is gazetted as a forest reserve, is the nearest landfall across the Straits of Malacca from Indonesia and is an important site for the birds to rest or catch thermals before continuing on their journey.

Due to its importance to migratory birds, the 60ha site is designated as an important bird area by Birdlife International.

MNS conserves the forest reserve by promoting Raptor Watch, through which it raises awareness of raptors and the need to conserve their habitat.

Visitors come from Singapore, Taiwan, the Philippines and Thailand. Last year, about 2,000 turned up.

This year, MNS hopes to get even more spectators to take part in activities, which include guided walks, eco-talks, games, arts and crafts, an obstacle course and a treasure hunt.

MNS head of communications Andrew Sebastian said last year’s raptor count went up to 57,000 birds over more than 40 days.

“This year, we have spotted 141 raptors, which may seem like a small number, but this is a good sign, as it means the birds will come in big numbers in March.”

For details, visit http://mnsrw2012.wordpress.com