– a rare and Endangered species
– Borneo Tabin and Kinabatangan river are 2 places easier to see this bird
– 珍稀瀕危物種
– 婆羅洲塔賓與京河是比較見到這鳥的鳥點。
update 202509
This is one of those birds that can easily be overlooked, even though it’s quite easy to spot along the Kinabatangan River. But if you take a moment to look closely, it’s truly a beautiful bird.
这是一种很容易被忽略的鸟，虽然在京那巴当岸河很容易看到。但如果你认真看，它其实非常漂亮。
202506, Kinabatangan River, Sabah, Malaysia
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update 202410
– another bird that we always looking while we on Kinabatangan River, it is a big bird that always perch near river bank.
– it is rare opportunity, it stand low and close to us .. and really good to see it face to face angle
– 在京河我们都会尽量找着你一只极度濒危的鸟。可是在这，不难见到。在河边通常可以见到他们站高高。
– 容易见到，可是不容易拍到。这次，运气站在我们这。真很低+近啊。
202402, Kinabatangan River, Sabah, Malaysia
#####
update 202402
– a Photography trip at here, lucky us to have this bird stay low and long with weird hairstyle even quite a lot of rain…
– A dark-brown stork with green-bronze iridescence on the wings and breast. It has a distinctive white ruffled neck, a white tail, and a dark salmon-tipped bill. Resident and migrant. Individuals and small groups forage in rivers, shallow wetland margins, urban grassy areas, and flooded grasslands for insects and small vertebrates. May gather in groups of several hundred when conditions are suitable. (EBird)
– while I am keeping my eye to flying pacific swift and saw this big bird flying high
– 当我在测试R6拍飞的燕子时，看到这较大的鸟飞的很高。
202201, Selangor, Malaysia
update 202105
– what a surprise when going through my hardisk (202104) when I was there for some waders. I still remember why the Lesser Adjutant flying so high up and actually it is not Adjutant.
– 非常惊讶，在清理影碟照片时。发现这稀有候鸟。当时，我还在想为什么小秃鹳飞的这么高。
202104, Kapar, Selangor, Malaysia
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update 202401
– when we first saw it, we ask the van to stop … and make the right decision. It is best view after this for the next 7-8 days
A tall, lanky, black-and-white stork with a unique red, yellow, and black bill. The male has dark-brown eyes, and the female has yellow eyes. In flight, the bird’s massive size, and the dark bands in the center of the white wings are diagnostic. Scarce but conspicuous; mostly resident but can be partially nomadic in parts of the range. Found singly or in pairs at rivers and large undisturbed wetlands, foraging for favorites like catfish, but it will also take frogs, birds, and insects. [Ebird]
It is one of the birds everyone of us dreams of seeing and photographing, with its beak’s vibrant colors being absolutely stunning. We were fortunate to observe it up close, offering great views and excellent photo opportunities.
A dark-brown stork with green-bronze iridescence on the wings and breast. It has a distinctive white ruffled neck, a white tail, and a dark salmon-tipped bill. Resident and migrant. Individuals and small groups forage in rivers, shallow wetland margins, urban grassy areas, and flooded grasslands for insects and small vertebrates. May gather in groups of several hundred when conditions are suitable. [Ebird]
As usual, this large and conspicuous stork stands out. It is commonly found in both urban areas and forests. Watching it slowly walk across the golf course provided us with a great photo opportunity.
It’s such a unique bird—many might call it ugly, but I don’t think any birder would agree. To me, it’s a beautiful creature, full of fascinating details.
– another Borneo montane endemic – bigger than other white-eyes
– with a black eye mask
婆羅洲高山特有種。不很稀有。
update 202509
This common Bornean endemic can still be highly luck-dependent to see well. During our short few-hour visit to Kinabalu Park, luck was on our side—we had an excellent, close-up view of this bird after waiting less than five minutes.
– a heavy rain morning, make us lost direction just birding with umbrella and raincoat. Lucky to have this bird so close at eye-level. beautiful Borneo endemic
– 一个下雨的早上，没办法带上雨伞一样的找鸟。还好这漂亮的特有种站的这么近。
202408, KNP, Sabah, Malaysia
#####
update 202306
– surprise for last trip, it was so tough to meet one of this common bird, even we had many sights again last day of the long tour. But this bird gave us very good view and picture opportunity
3. Hume’s White-eye, 休氏绣眼鸟, 休氏繡眼鳥, Zosterops auriventer, KELICAP-KACAMATA RIMBA MELAYU
– previously belong to Everett’s White-eye.
– almost cannot differentiate with another similar white-eye Swinhoe’s (Oriental). but easier distinct from the environment. Where Hume’s normally found near forest instead of mangrove.
– very tiny active bird, note gray-brown upperparts, yellow-washed underparts, pale gray face, pale eyes, and white-speckled “scaly” forehead.
– 非常活跃与小的婆罗洲特有种。全是几乎白灰，身下带黄。
We had been trying hard to photograph this bird, but with no luck—until the final five minutes of our two-day birding trip at Kinabalu National Park. Finally, success just before the end!
– a very tiny small pale Borneo endemic, which normally moving in group
– a special endemic for the group, which told them very small bird and not very attractive but they say want have a try .. bingo .. got it quite low for us take picture
– common Borneo montane white eye with obvious black forehead and lores
update 202408
– a raining morning, everyone got wet, but it still do not stop everyone continue look for their target .. this bird came close and give us very good view
a montane common endemic, normally moving in flock feeding together make a lot sound
高山特有种，蛮普通。通常群体活动。
update 20240105
– so many good pictures opportunity, December in Taiwan but I am there not just for Photography … lets plan 2024 ? 2025 ? Autumn color with birds .. 😀
– this endemic normally moving in group and active making soft call
– 这特有种通常群体活动，蛮普通。叫的很小声。
– 台湾12月很多红叶，应该可以拍些好照片。。2024，2025再去？
202312, DaXueShan, Taiwan
update 20231218
– the only species that I saw 2 day in the row at DaXueShan, lovely and moving fast as other Yuhina.
– the RF200800 does not failed me to fast lock focus and track the bird even I missed quite a lot due to low light (low shutter speed while moving the lens direction fast) but as long as the bird stand still for a second or more most of the continuous series I had more than 70% keeper.
– It is a small parrot (18 cm) and is primarily green with bright red underwing coverts, a reddish shoulder patch, and yellowish margins on the wing coverts. It is sexually dimorphic. The female has a grey-brown head. The male has a black mantle, red upper mandible, and blue head and rump.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blue-rumped_parrot
– a rare small parrot, male with blue-grey-green wing
5. Rose-ringed Parakeet, 红领绿鹦鹉, 紅領綠鸚鵡, Psittacula krameri, ホンセイインコ, BAYAN GELANG BIASA
– feral for Peninsular Malaysia.
– Vibrantly bright green parakeet, frequently found in woodland, parks, gardens, where feeds mainly in trees. Nests in cavities, including holes in buildings. Easily overlooked if quiet, as the bright green plumage blends easily with foliage. Note the very long slender tail, bright red bill; male has narrow black-and-rose neck ring. Closely resembles larger Alexandrine Parakeet, which has a wine-red patch on each shoulder. (ebird)
– the flower withered but the bird still coming … good view of this cute bird
– 花都开始谢了，可是话还是来。真的很美。
202404, Bukit Tinggi, Pahang, Malaysia
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update 202403
– as usual this tree still attract few birds, but today too bad just this hanging parrot available. This bird is so small and cute
– 这树几乎吸引蛮多鸟，可是今天就这一只小家伙。可是他很可爱+小。
202403, Bukit Tinggi, Pahang, Malaysia
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update 202310
– it is always good to see this bird perch and most of the time we always tell guests .. see it is Blue-crowned Hanging-Parrot flying … haha such a tiny bird flying …
A large green parrot with a thin pair of tail rackets, confined to North Sulawesi and satellite islands. Entirely green, except for distinct yellow wash on breast and collar. Males show a small red crown patch. Juveniles lack rackets. Found in pairs and groups in canopy of forests and edges in lowlands and foothills. Prominent yellow breast and large size of this species distinguish it from Golden-mantled Racquet-tail. If rackets are not seen, note the silvery-gray bill, unlike Blue-naped Parrot. Noisy, giving varied vocalizations. Song is a high-pitched “kut-ut-ut-kler-kler.” Also gives screeches, squeaking, piping, and ear-splitting “kraa” notes. [Ebird]
– Racquet-tail always attract us, even just the common Greater Racquet-tail at Malaysia. This colorful parrot with Racquet-tail, just another bird that I want to photograph i close range. finally it perch so just infront of us.
This tiny parrot was feeding—maybe on ants?—along a tree trunk. Luckily, a few came down low near the village, giving us a great look. Up close, it’s truly beautiful; otherwise, it just looks like a little green blur zipping around!
This is one of the most common birds on Waigeo Island—you can often see them flying around. We were lucky to stay at a resort where they flew close by and occasionally perched on nearby fruit trees. Just before heading out for our evening birding session, this lovely female came really close and low for us—what a treat!
One of the exciting moments was spotting this shy and rare bird through the thick morning mist. Thanks to Pak Esli’s persistence, he returned the next morning and got a much better view!
101. Sri Lanka Hanging-Parrot, 斯里兰卡短尾鹦鹉, 斯里蘭卡短尾鸚鵡, Loriculus beryllinus, ズアカサトウチョウ
– as other Hanging-Parrot small, always canopy. Sri Lanka endemic make no different
– 与其他短尾鹦鹉一样，小小+站高高
update 20240102
– while ours’ trip to Sri Lanka, so much rain while we planning to go out for more birds on day 2 but rain just too heavy for us. But it is glad that Sri Lanka is a place almost any where possible to birding. (ecxcept the forest reserve, bird really scared around) Included the garden of hotel, we got few good birds just at lobby of the hotel even raining
– as usual very colorful bird than move in pair, not very common only saw 2 times over 10 days
– 鹦鹉就是多色彩，不很普通。10天中就见了2次。
update 202401
– a raining evening, we been force to birding at Hotel garden and not a bad one we have this lovely endemic come to feed on palm seed
– 一个下雨的下午，没办法出去就在酒店前观鸟。还很不错这一只特有种。竟然飞过来吃果子。
202312, Kitulgala, Sri Lanka
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update 202304
– always seeing this flying for the pass and finally before got “tick attack” (suspect we got the 200-400 tick bites here)we got this bird sitting good for good view to all and some picture opportunity.
Is a long journey from Malaysia – Sulawesi – Jayapura (~26 hours without a bed, too much coffee and waiting) …for the day1 when we arrive, we give Magnificent Riflebird a try but failed to have any photo .. but the bird was well seen above our “hide”
Day2 – Nimbokrang
We start our drive, walk ~430am, 15 min drive and ~20min walk … the first Bird-of-paradise is waiting for us .. before we walk into our “hide”. The bird keeps calling, trying to attract female … but seem it is not attractive enough. only one female comes close and fast. The male trying to “show off” with some action but the female flew off just immediate it trying to show his “dance”
I am mostly recording video, so this picture I share is a Jpeg extract from Canon Digital Photo Professional software …
– one of the most easier, walk not that far and the birds just there without any waiting
– first Bird-of-Paradise of the trip and amazing beautiful
非常漂亮的天堂鳥。
update 202508
It’s amazing how this bird kept calling during all three of our visits—only once did it attempt to display for a nearby female. I really enjoy watching this species dance; it’s not as dark or fast-moving as some other birds-of-paradise, which makes it even more enjoyable to observe.
It’s our last day at the first birding spot, and we were happy with our choice—got an even better view of this stunning Bird-of-Paradise. Since I already had good shots of its display, I focused on capturing it in flight. And yes… it flew off right after a nearby female called!
202507, Nimbokrang, Jayapura, West Papua, Indonesia
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update 202507
After several years, I’m finally back in West Papua—so excited to return! Our first bird-of-paradise of the trip was the same as before: a beautiful male Twelve-wired Bird-of-Paradise, calling at dawn in the dim morning light.
– let’s share some old pictures and video
– this was 2019 Oct, our West Papua Bird Photography trip first Birds-of-Paradise and one of the most easier.
– special of this bird is the tails
2. King Bird-of-paradise, 王极乐鸟, 王天堂鳥, Cicinnurus regius, ヒヨクドリ, Cendrawasih Raja
update 202602
This is one of my absolute favorite birds, and seeing it always gets my heart racing. This trip was particularly special because we found a much better vantage point. Unlike the first spot where the birds stayed high up after a 15-minute walk, this site offered open, low-level views for everyone. It did require a 40-minute trek through flat, muddy trails, but the proximity was worth it. Some of us even went back for a second round to capture better shots. I am already looking forward to returning in August 2026. Who wants to join me?
202507, Nimbokrang, Jayapura, West Papua, Indonesia
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update 202508
This is definitely one of my favorite birds-of-paradise. It usually stays high in the canopy, but with some luck, you can still capture its stunning poses and display.
For this trip, we were lucky—it came down really low, giving us a perfect chance to photograph this beautiful bird up close!
202507, Nimbokrang, Jayapura, West Papua, Indonesia
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BoP #2 which is my target #1 for this tour, was just about 20min walking after Twelve-wired Bird-of-Paradise, but this is so much smaller, higher & active makes only a very limited angle to get the full view. I am lucky to have this just ~5min wait.
King Bird-of-paradise, 王极乐鸟
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3. Lesser Bird-of-paradise, 小极乐鸟, 小天堂鳥, Paradisaea minor, コフウチョウ, Cendrawasih Kecil
– The only BoP we didn’t see much and dancing .. just hear most of the time … the location we wait seem not the really correct location for “dancing” … but it did flying across and let us record
– 在非常高的樹上叫不停，就見到它們飛來飛去。幸運都停了一會。
update 202508
Same as before—it stayed high up in the trees. But this time, we were lucky to be much closer (surprisingly, we didn’t walk much on this tour—except one guest who followed me for the Black Sicklebill). Still, the bird was displaying with a few females nearby, and everyone was happy with the show!
– another not so obvious Bird-of-Paradise got from Irian Jaya.
– this is so far away, and somehow it still belongs to BoP .. we got it record ..
– 鳥不是特別出色，還要在遠遠的。
– 攝於伊里安查亚
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After 5 days of “enjoy”, reasonable food, easy walk (flat), air-cond room, not far from airport and bird spots .. we finally move to 2nd destination Arfak Mountain..
After got the information before, we get ready with some extra food … sleeping beg, insect repellent, etc .. just before we going into a “no Phone” (only a particular spot can get a phone signal which is a bit distance from our “homestay”. After ~2 hours of offroad travel, we arrive at our homestay a little bit late and with rain .. so we call this a day and enjoy our cold stay
Here, we need to split into a few groups to decide on different BoP hide due to limited “hole” for photography …
Day1 at Arfak Mountain
5. Western Parotia, 阿法六线风鸟, 阿法六線風鳥, Parotia sefilata, カンザシフウチョウ, Parotia Arfak
– lucky to have this amazing, lovely bird for bird #1 .. we walk a very steep hike ~45-60 degree uphill for ~500m … we saw the bird-eating, calling for the whole morning but just not dancing … at ~9 am, we almost give up … the female came to the dancing group, followed by the male than the moment begin …
update 202602
This is one of our main target species, both to photograph and to witness in person just how incredible its display can be. It is a big bird, and once it starts displaying, it looks both spectacular and amusing at the same time. No matter how many times we watch it, the display never gets boring. Sometimes, we even return again in the afternoon, hoping to catch more action.
##### It’s hard to miss this amazing bird when visiting West Papua—but getting good photos during its “dance” is still a big challenge. The bird moves in every direction with lightning speed, often in low light. Once we had enough photos, everyone switched to video mode, hoping to capture its incredible display. This shot shows the moment it ends its dance—standing still and shaking its head. Captured at 40fps and turned into a short video. Hopefully, I’ll get to share the full display video soon!
– a big overall blackbird, with a colorful throat depends on the angle and also have a Blue eye
– the male famous with ballerina dance displaying to attract female
– 非常特别的天堂鸟。大，黑，喉会变黄绿。为吸引母鸟会跳草裙舞
201910, Mount Arfak, West Papua, Indonesia
update 2020 Jul
Western Parotia, 阿法六線風鳥, 阿法六线风鸟, Parotia sefilata
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so amazing to see it dancing ..
update 2020 Jan 16
a close look at the Juv
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6. Red Bird-of-paradise, 红极乐鸟, 紅極樂鳥, Paradisaea rubra, ジュウニセンフウチョウ, Cendrawasih Mati-kawat
actually, this is the last BoP of the tour but I really like it so much when I process the pictures …. can’t wait to share this great moment with you all. Endemic, common but somehow I really like this
update 202508
This year’s setup is much better—a shorter walk and an improved bird hide gave us a better viewing angle. Unfortunately, no female showed up, so the bird just did a short display as if preparing, then left. Still, a stunning bird and a moment worth witnessing.
This marks the final Bird of Paradise for our 16-day West Papua trip. Everyone was thrilled to see this beautiful and relatively easier species. It looked like it was just starting to display and call for a female—but no luck today. Still, it was fun watching it practice its dance moves!
– another BoP that really amazes us, it keeps cleaning the “dancing” ground and displaying (dancing) to attract a female. make a lot of photo opportunity
– 唯一不冷場的鳥，從早上到中午。下午都一直清理它的舞場，叫不停。
update 202603
Meet one of the most accessible and stunning Birds of Paradise. The male features a striking yellowish hue overall, complemented by a magnificent tail that shimmers with different colors as the light hits it from various angles.
I am planning a photography trip for August 2026 to capture this beautiful species. Who would like to join me?
– one of the easiest and beautiful Bird-of-Paradise
– every morning, it will come to “dance” ground clearing and calling the female – this is a moment after an hour clearing, no female is approaching so it is resting and preening nearby
– 一隻蠻普通+漂亮的風鳥，天堂鳥。
– 每天它都會到這清理，呼叫。希望母鳥的到來。
update 202602
This is one of the easiest Birds-of-Paradise to see, yet it is still among the most stunning and beautiful. This time, the display site was amazingly right beside the roadside! Compared to past trips, where we needed to hike 1–2 hours on steep slopes, this felt like a real luxury. If we have an extra morning, I would definitely return to enjoy this spectacular display again.
I will be revisiting West Papua in 2026 — anyone interested in joining?
update 202509 ##### Still remember the moment—our porters and local guides were late, so everyone rushed to the birding spot without them. Luckily, we arrived just in time to witness something special. A truly lucky group to see this stunning Bird-of-Paradise performing its display to attract a female. Such an incredible experience with these amazing birds! 还记得当时的情景——我们的挑夫和当地向导迟到了，大家只能自己快步前往观鸟点。幸运的是，我们还是赶上了精彩的时刻。 真是幸运的一组人，看到天堂鸟为了吸引雌鸟而展示求偶舞。这种鸟真是太神奇了！
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update 202105
– one of the most seen, photograph BoP, but still like this bird very much. the body contains so much color and the chest “green” can changing depend on lighting and angle to “purple”
It’s not a lifer for me, but watching this bird display openly—with such a unique courtship dance and even mating—definitely made my July 2025 unforgettable. Even with highlights like the dancing Western Parotia, displaying Black Sicklebill, close views of King Bird-of-paradise, a flying Twelve-wired BOP, and up-close Owlet-nightjars… this moment will stick with me forever.
It’s truly a privilege to witness this amazing courtship display. We were lucky to see it many times and even managed to capture it in slow motion with new technology—something that would’ve been nearly impossible just a few years ago. Enjoy the moment!
Frogmouth is one of my favorite bird family .. and I like to see them at night .. this frogmouth is huge !!! average 53cm !!!! We do not really look for it but on the way to our BoP saw it on the wire, road site so I decided to walk down shoot it with handheld .. yes handheld 😀 to reduce time waste …
It’s a massive bird (according to the field guide, 45–60 cm), and it truly looks huge when seen up close. We were lucky that Ahmad took us to his house—yes, just right across from it—to see three of them roosting. But I still hope to see it one day at night, with those glowing red eyes!
这是一只体型非常大的鸟（根据图鉴约45–60厘米），现场看真的很大！
很幸运 Ahmad 带我们去他家（就在他家对面）看到3只正在栖息的鸟。但我还是很想哪天能在夜晚看到它，看到那双“红眼睛”的样子。
202507, Nimbokrang, Jayapura, West Papua, Indonesia
– One of the most beautiful Monarch seen so far …this male just lovely with a blue eye-ring.
– male Blue-white and female is orange-rufous
– 非常特別與漂亮的王鶲
update 202102
– when I first saw the female, I was like wow this Monarch is just gorgeous. then we spent quite some time getting the male into the frame too.– as other Monarch, active and noisy bird– 當我們見到母鳥時真的不能相信這麼漂亮的王鶲– 讓後我們都決定用一點時間把公鳥拍下。
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– heard this bird calling many places but just too shy to show
– obvious bill shape
– 很多點都能聽到它叫。就是很難見到。
update 202507
Excited to revisit this amazing birding spot soon! During our last trip, we spent quite a bit of time searching for this unique “hook-billed” bird—but the effort was totally worth it. Can’t wait to try again in West Papua!
58. Vogelkop Bowerbird, 褐色园丁鸟, 褐色園丁鳥, Amblyornis inornata, チャイロニワシドリ, Namdur Polos
– one of the amazing birds, how this bird behaves… we spend our rest time to monitor this bird for 2 evenings.. it just amazing collect and put the same color “rubbish” to decorate the house.
– while we hiking for other birding sites, I actually notice some colorful rubbish been hide in some hole …think the bird knows how to keep the “rubbish” in another location if it is not required.
– 蠻大，沒什麼顏色的鳥。
– 非常特別的鳥，會把不一樣的”垃圾“。顏色分類。真的很厲害。
update 202105
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59. Common Paradise-Kingfisher, 普通仙翡翠, 普通仙翡翠, Tanysiptera galatea, ラケットカワセミ, Cekakak-pita biasa
– Blue-white, red bill & long-tailed
– this bird is common especially at Raja Ampat, but it just too active and shy ..
– 印尼拉賈安帕群島蠻普通的鳥，可是很害羞。不容易拍照片。
Common Paradise-Kingfisher, 普通仙翡翠, 普通仙翡翠, Tanysiptera galatea
– pink crown, green black-white breast- orange-yellow belly
– 非常漂亮的果鳩
– 粉紅頭冠，灰白臉與胸，綠背。
– 非常害羞。
update 202508
Small and stunning—another beautiful fruit-dove!
In all my previous visits, we only had brief glimpses, often high up and far away. But this time, it came down low and stayed with us for a good while. What a treat!
One of the most common lowland birds in West Papua—but still very special, especially when it opens its mouth, showing off that bright, shiny color. And the female is just as stunning! (I’ll post her next time.)
For us, after a long day of travel, this was the first bird to welcome us—right outside our room!
update 202102
- this bird very active and beautiful for both male and female
- captured our stay at our hotel at Raja Ampat
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62. Lesser Frigatebird, 白斑军舰鸟, 白班軍艦鳥, Fregata ariel, コグンカンドリ, Cikalang Kecil
– one of the least common in this region with the Greater
– male is easier to distinct but females sometimes confuse.
– LF which refers has obviously the extended spurs which absent from Greater Frigatebird. some angles may confuse with Christmas Island Frigatebird.
update 202101
- captured this at our hotel near the beach while our stay at Raja Ampat, Indonesia
- the spurs extend from the center white breast
- blackhead, the white breast should be an adult female?
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63. Golden Monarch, 金王鹟, 黑黃王鶲, Carterornis chrysomela, キイロカササギビタキ, Kehicap Emas
One of the most common birds around, but this time it kept its distance and wasn’t too friendly. Still, we managed to get plenty of nice flight shots.
Such a beautiful bird, especially when its wings are fully open!
This bird is endemic to Papua Island, and unlike some species that require long waits, this one was a quick and lucky tick! It perched right where we wanted—such a satisfying moment.
Big thanks to the team for their persistence! We finally got a good look at this fairly common lowland forest bird in West Papua. It was a bit of a shame the first one only I managed to photograph—but luckily, we found it again and everyone got their shot!
This was another tricky bird to get! We spent two hours on the first afternoon, and only I managed to get a partial shot of the head and body. The next day trying for Papuan Pitta was another tough one—again, I was the only one who got a photo. On our final evening, Ahmad suggested trying a new bird hide. （bird not come for feed) —just walked and flew around. But in the end, everyone finally got a look at this Papua endemic!
It’s a huge bird with a brightly colored head. I missed it during my last trip, but this time I finally got to see two—moving around almost like pets, even with names! Really happy to finally see this massive and beautiful bird.
202507, Nimbokrang, Jayapura, West Papua, Indonesia
69. Mountain Owlet-nightjar, 灰裸鼻鸱, 山裸鼻鴟, Aegotheles albertisi, ミヤマズクヨタカ, Atoku gunung
update 202508
This is another one of my favorite bird families—always a top priority whenever I visit sites where it’s possible to see them. During our 4-day stay at Mount Arfak, we saw four individuals: three Mountain and one Feline Owlet-nightjar. This one was especially memorable—so beautiful and just about 5–8 feet away, staring right at us!
It’s not a new family or species — I’ve definitely photographed this bird before during a previous visit to the Arfak area. But this time, I got to witness it fighting with a Lophorina superba while trying to attract a female at the “stage.”
This tiny parrot was feeding—maybe on ants?—along a tree trunk. Luckily, a few came down low near the village, giving us a great look. Up close, it’s truly beautiful; otherwise, it just looks like a little green blur zipping around!
This bird showed up a few times throughout our West Papua trip and became one of our frequently seen species. Unfortunately, only I managed to get some record shots—others only saw it walk past! It actually paused in this spot for around 4 seconds, but due to the bird hide’s viewing angle, not everyone could get a photo.
This is one of the most common birds on Waigeo Island—you can often see them flying around. We were lucky to stay at a resort where they flew close by and occasionally perched on nearby fruit trees. Just before heading out for our evening birding session, this lovely female came really close and low for us—what a treat!
74. Beach Kingfisher, 白头翡翠, 海灘翡翠, Todiramphus saurophagus, シロガシラショウビン, Cekakak Pantai
update 202509
This kingfisher is quite common from Maluku to Papua Island—not a rare bird, but like many kingfishers, it can be shy when approached. Also, it’s not the easiest to photograph, especially with its bright head that’s easy to overexpose.
After our noon break, we explored along the river and were lucky to spot one perched nearby. Even better, it came back again for another look!
One of the exciting moments was spotting this shy and rare bird through the thick morning mist. Thanks to Pak Esli’s persistence, he returned the next morning and got a much better view!
This bird behaves much like a fantail but has the appearance of a drongo—a truly unique combination. While the rest of the group was in the hide, I was left outside (no seat available), which turned out to be a blessing, as I got to enjoy this strange and wonderful bird up close!
78. Brown Oriole, 褐鹂, 褐色黃鸝, Oriolus szalayi, チャイロコウライウグイス, Kepudang Coklat
update 202509
It gives off a call similar to an oriole, yet its appearance is rather plain and understated. Despite its simple look, it’s a species we rarely get to see up close or capture in photographs, making this encounter quite special.
One of the easiest and most rewarding night birding moments! This lovely endemic owl started calling right at dusk near the roadside. We didn’t have to wait long — just a short walk into the bushes, and there it was, perched and showing well for everyone. A truly special night encounter!
It’s not a new mammal family, but definitely a new addition to our collection! Spotted this stunning-looking mammal on Waigeo Island. While everyone was enjoying coffee and waiting for fruit-doves, some local kids called us into the forest. We couldn’t really understand what they were saying—but soon enough, this beautiful creature appeared, low and close. What a surprise and such a beautiful moment!
– another chance to photograph and see this bird.. this bird is not easy at most of the location except Danum Valley which is seem quite easier. Even after all people have a good look I still have chance to take a picture of this shy and active song bird
1. Straw-headed Bulbul, 黄冠鹎, 黃冠鵯, Pycnonotus zeylanicus, キガシラヒヨドリ, BARAU-BARAU RAYA
– bird make very nice songs , that’s why always main target to be trap
– critical engendered species
update 202502
I was thrilled to spot this bird just five feet away from us and couldn’t help but shout, “Straw-headed!” We were incredibly lucky that it stayed long enough for us to enjoy a great view and capture some photos. A truly fortunate sighting after so many years!
– it is a critical endanger and rare bird, getting difficult to sight one since 5 years ago.. but this year seem good year sight it Johor, Sukau (multiple times), Danum Valley & Taman Negara.
– it is boring morning without much activities, before we heading back for breakfast. Saw a bulbul shape bird flying across and YES .. it just stand not that high and far from us ..
– it is a hot afternoon while we trying to find a Black-and-Red Broadbill nest which gone after the water level is over the nest. But all of sudden I saw these 2 birds just stand infront of us … wow wow .. it was so close for us to get some shot compare to normal high up at the canopy
It was a pleasure to encounter this beautiful bulbul on the first day, right at eye level, giving us the perfect view. I took the opportunity once again to capture some action shots.
– another fruiting tree “waiting” moment, this is very first bird that come close and low for us. Even missed Photograph the main target but managed to see both Black-and-white Bulbul & Chestnut-capped Thrush but still happy guests saw both species
– 遇上了果树，主要是耐心等待。虽然错过摄影黑白鹎与栗顶地鸫。可是客人看到已很足够了。下次吧
202406, Poring, Sabah, Malaysia
#####
update 202012
###
Scaly-breasted Bulbul,鳞胸鹎, Rubigula squamata, ウロコヒヨドリ, Burung Merbah Bersisik
look like Pen Malaysia Black-crested Bulbul, this sub-montane endemic … many years ago, I ever say to my friend … “Black-crested Bulbul very common at Pen Malaysia la, I don’t need ”
update 202509
This is a bird that’s easy to miss—even though it’s not rare—mainly because there aren’t many reliable spots to see it regularly, except this special location. The wait can be a bit boring since it only comes for fruit 2–3 times a day, but we were lucky to have a great session with this beautiful Borneo endemic.
– another Borneo Endemic not that difficult to be missed if we have enough time to be at right time. But this time, we are lucky enough to have just park ours car and found this bird with another 2 endemic birds just in single area for feeding on this flower.
– normally moving in group, black crest with yellow body
– depend on the checklist, some have split as Pale-faced Bulbul which is montane Borneo endemic
– look very similar to Yellow-vented Bulbul
update 202506
This bird seems to be everywhere this time—so much easier to spot compared to last year, when it sometimes took multiple visits just to catch a glimpse of this Bornean endemic!
這次這隻鳥似乎到處都能看到，比起去年容易多了！去年有時候得跑好幾趟才有機會瞄到這種婆羅洲特有種！
202506, KNP, Sabah, Malaysia
#####
update 202407
– a recent split, it is a Borneo highland endemic. a common bird making a lot of noise while moving in group or pair.
– 最近才被分出来的婆罗洲高山特有种。蛮普通，通常群体活动。
202406, KNP, Sabah, Malaysia
#####
update 202308
– a highland, bulbul that pretty common but recently gave me some hardtie to looking for it. previous trips just need more tie on this bird. Not sure what happen .. but last trip, it just show there when we arrive …
– some checklist already split this as Pale-faced Bulbul as Borneo endemic
– 高原的鹎，其实蛮普通可是最近不知道怎了，还是要点时间看到它。
– 有人已把它分成新婆罗洲特有种。
202306, KNP, Sabah, Malaysia
update 202011
201905, KNP, Sabah, Malaysia
5. Spectacled Bulbul, 小褐鹎, 小褐鵯, Rubigula erythropthalmos, コアカメチャイロヒヨ, MERBAH MATA MERAH KECIL
– small brown’s Bulbul, which with Yellow eye ring
it is last Peninsular Malaysia birding tour for 2025 (as for now), it was real luck even raining season but we have full 1 day without any rain with 42 birds photograph ! I am day1 using Canon new R6 markiii, due to busy schedule can;t share much like last time (but if you need more info how’s it perform from actual field experience in Malaysia rain forest do PM me)
this is one of the bird that we had so many sights and few times it is low and good light for us. lovely not so common bulbul
– a Buff-vented look-alike bulbul (Peninsular Malaysia) which absent from Borneo island.
– a “brown” bulbul, Borneo lowland endemic
– white eye, steak dark brown head
– 婆罗洲没”黄臀灰胸鹎“。把它分出这特有种。
– 白眼，头部明显暗纹
– very common brown bulbul endemic, it is Buff vented Bulbul (peninsular Malaysia) look alike
– 非常普通的婆罗洲特有种
update 202208
– a common lowland Borneo endemic. overall brown with darker brown-black on head
– a newly split from Ochraceous Bulbul, special to Borneo. additional of Borneo Endemic.
A brownish-olive bulbul with a wispy crest and a puffy, glowingly white throat. Inhabits lowland and montane forests, where it prefers primary or well-aged secondary growth. Forages in the middle and lower levels of the forest, usually in small, noisy flocks. (Ebird)
– 之前与西马的白喉褐冠鹎同类。之后分为婆罗洲特有种。
update 202308
– a new split Borneo endemic, which normally found Sub-montane or montane of Borneo. it look very Ochraceous Bulbul.
– A highly localized species, found almost exclusively in the kerangas and peatswamp forests of Borneo and Sumatra’s lowlands (rarely in adjacent wooded habitats). Fairly plain overall; note brown upperparts, off-white chest, pale yellow belly, and elegant white eyebrow. Long and heavy hook-tipped silver bill is diagnostic if seen well. Forages singly, in pairs, and in small bands, typically in the middle and lower levels of forest. Gives a variety of harsh scolding calls, including a nasal “jyaw, jyaw” and a quicker, drier rattle. [ebird]
– a boring raining morning, almost nothing calling or action.. except this bird gave us some good view … any how main target ticked
– 郁闷的下雨早上，（还在下雨）几乎没什么鸟叫。就这鸟乖乖的让我们看/拍。目标鸟看到了还好。
202309, KLIAS, SABAH, Malaysia
update 202306
– a Borneo extension quick drop-by for 2 hour and lucky to have this close and clear view
– 婆罗洲行之加行程1，第一站停了2个小时。非常幸运看到这么近
202306, Sabah, Malaysia
18. Cream-eyed Bulbul, 白眼鹎, 白眼鵯, Pycnonotus pseudosimplex, MERBAH MATA PUTIH BORNEO
– a very similar look with cream-vented bulbul but it is newly know to be Borneo endemic
– 与白眼褐鹎有点困扰。是最近被分为婆罗洲特有种。白眼，褐色
Dull dirt-brown bulbul with pale button eyes. Currently only known from northern Borneo, where it is the only plain brown bulbul with white eyes. Pale-eyed forms of closely related Cream-vented Bulbul do not overlap in range. Found in a range of forests and forest edges. Like other bulbuls, often joins flocks at fruiting trees. Gives loud “pinks” and quiet sputtering trills. (ebird)
update 202510
This may not be the flashiest Bornean endemic, and sightings aren’t often reported, but it’s actually quite common in Danum Valley. While we were focused on looking for our main target, this bird unexpectedly came low and offered us a great photo opportunity — a nice bonus for the day!
– after tired to search for Bornean Wren-babblers .. everyone saw it but not a very good view ::( .. decide to walk up to canopy for some relax birding and this bird stand in-front of us .. sometime it is easy to miss as a brown bird
– 在看到加里曼丹地鹛后，大家都筋疲力尽了。就上了树上不到简单看鸟，这一只好鸟竟然就站前面。
202408, Danum Valley, Sabah, Malaysia
#####
update 202404
– another species getting difficult to sight, may be we overlooked the “brown bird” .. pale white eye which very Cream-vented Bulbul look alike but absent from Borneo
– 另一种鸟越来越难见到，可能我们都饿没注意这鸟？与马来西亚的白眼褐鹎很像。可是在婆罗洲没有。
202403, Danum Valley, Sabah, Malaysia
#####
update 202307
– a recent visit to Danum Valley and used to see it quite common at RDC and Danum Valley. But than not really has good sight since ~2 years ago until now
olive above and yellow below with an especially pale throat. Like many other bulbuls, manages to be distinctive despite being utterly unremarkable-looking. Inhabits lowland and foothill forests, in both primary and secondary growth. Moves through middle and upper levels of forest in pairs or small flocks, sometimes with other species. Gives rough “wek” and “kwik” calls when foraging, but otherwise fairly quiet. [Ebird]
– a uncommon bulbul, for most of the location except South of Peninsula Malaysia & Borneo Danum Valley
– 蛮稀有的除了，西马南部与丹浓古
update 202603
Back in Merapoh for the second time this month! We hit our targets—the
Garnet Pitta, Great Argus, and Malayan Peacock-Pheasant—within just three hours on the first evening. During a relaxed birding session the next morning, we spotted this bird again in the same area. This time, it perched incredibly close to us for several rounds.
202603, Taman Negara Sungai Relau, Pahang, Malaysia
#####
Another milestone for the trip! We heard them calling and saw them fly off several times, but never got a clear look until last morning. This one was incredibly vocal and perched right in front of us.
202602, Taman Negara Sungai Relau, Pahang, Malaysia
#####
update 202507
It’s quite a strange little spot we visited—good birds spot overall, it also held some uncommon species for Peninsular Malaysia. One of the highlights was this very yellowish bulbul that came in low and close for great views!
– as usual with morning walk to look for more missing “brown birds”, all of sudden saw Brown+Yellow bird and very soon heard the call .. I ask everyone to have a good view of this not so common brown bird
– a wonderful day to go out with buddy, still very quiet overall.. but surprise this bird so close to us. ~10 feet at eye level for us. Now can see so much clear on the crown view
– 与朋友去走走，森林还是非常安静。可是幸运地，这鸟站在我们10尺+地角度。它的冠是很漂亮的哦
20240111, Talang, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia
#####
update 202307
– a raining afternoon, after some good flock of woodpeckers. This bird just stand at road side for us. lovely looking bulbul
– 下了一场雨后，来了一次啄木鸟的鸟浪。之后就发现这漂亮的鹎。
202307, Lenggor, Johor, Malaysia
20. Ochraceous Bulbul, 白喉褐冠鹎, 白喉褐冠鵯, Alophoixus ochraceus, シロハラカンムリヒヨドリ, MERBAH-BERJANGGUT GUNUNG BIASA
A brownish-olive bulbul with a wispy crest and a puffy, glowingly white throat. Inhabits lowland and foothill forests, where it prefers primary or well-aged secondary growth. Forages in the middle and lower levels of forest, usually in small, noisy flocks. Calls consist primarily of loud, dry “chek” notes; variable song is pleasant and warbling. Extremely similar in appearance to closely related Puff-throated Bulbul, but smaller Ochraceous has darker and browner upperparts, duller yellow underparts, and a shorter crest. [ebird]
This is one of those birds we often hear or briefly see, but rarely get a good photo opportunity with. However, last month we were lucky to enjoy two amazing encounters—one in Peninsular Malaysia and another in Borneo.
As we were walking out of the forest after getting our main target, we heard its call nearby. Moments later, it appeared almost at eye level, just around 5 meters from us. What a moment!
– overall bulbul, leafbird and most of the colorful birds, songbirds are very low density at west Sumatra
– 一只非常有条纹的鹎，整体呈灰色。
– 在苏门答腊，鹎，叶鹎，鸠都几乎很难看到。
update 202401
– the famous Tapan road had few landslides so we mostly walking at the road (~15-20km) but overall Bulbul, leafbirds, dove almost not heard or visible … but this endemic came down to feed berry while we have good view of ~12 Blue Nuthatch.
A dark, sleek, medium-sized bird with a black crest and a white rump. The red color under the tail is often difficult to see. Eats fruit, flower buds, and insects. Conspicuous and sometimes gregarious, often seen high in trees or perched on wires in urban and rural areas; generally prefers scrubby edge habitat instead of dense forest. Calls include a variety of chirps and whistles. Native to South and Southeast Asia. Introduced to Kuwait, Qatar, United Arab Emirates, Oman, and some Polynesian islands, including Hawaii. [Ebird]
update 202412
It seems this bird is quite common in the region—I may have seen it before in Sri Lanka or somewhere else. Still, it’s great to spot our first bird here after a long journey and a relaxing stay at the homestay in Baihualing, Yunnan, China.
I’ve quickly adapted to the setup (Canon R1), and capturing these in-flight shots felt almost seamless. The bird flew straight toward us, and I managed to get all 19 frames perfectly in focus.
– another shy and beautiful partridge found from 600-1000m sub-montane
Update 202504
No matter how rare or beautiful a bird is, once a photographer captures it too easily, it somehow loses its charm after being “ticked.”
Me and my best buddy first heard the call here, and we later saw it dashing across the area. Since then, this pair has been showing up quite frequently at a particular spot. Strangely, not many people come to see them, even though they’re such a photogenic pair in a perfect setting.
– after long missing this bird at Bukit Tinggi, finally it is back to the common spot. Luckily to have it calling in front of us
– 这鸟几乎不见了，可是最近又出现了。这次很幸运，在我们面前叫不停。
#####
update 202407
– from last first back, it become more brave willing to come open and slow walk. even with the bigger Pheasant arrive it still feed together. Sad it still looking for his mate, making his call bit weird and tired.
– one of the most beautiful partridge for Malaysia.
– another bird that everyone still hope to see while looking for while visiting one of the feeding spot. But it is never easy to meet this bird … finally it is active last few weeks and I managed to see it for 3/4 trips there.
update 2017 Nov 11
just another bird … same behavior as the previous one .. too tame 🙁
update 2017 Jan 28
– very good sighting of this rare bird and able to shoot with my SONY RX10 m3
4. Sabah Partridge, 沙巴山鹧鸪, 沙巴山鷓鴣, Tropicoperdix graydoni, クリチャミヤマテッケイ, SERUK-BUKIT SABAH
– also call Sabah Partridge, the look slightly different on the chest & head.
– behavior, environment very similar
– comparative common or more sighting compare to the Arborophila Charlton
update 202408
– this bird seem not really easy to have picture in Danum, but it is a lucky day.. the bird just stand there for so long .. but it is under the dark area .. ISO16000 used 🙁
– after got the Bornean Bristlehead, this bird soon come and make loud call for us .. really beautiful and loud call
– 看到棘头鵙后，这鸟就来很近+叫的很大声。这鸟也很漂亮虽然叫的大声恐怖。
update 202310
– as usual, one of the very tame bird to be seen and photograph, never missed over the years .. sometime I am just worry of the bird behavior
– 这鸟有时间，到对的地方。几乎没错过。可是就太乖了，我真的有点担心这鸟的安全。
202208, Sukau, Malaysia
#####
update 202305
– a noisy and lovely Partridge, with the name of Sabah Partridge ** . We got it at Sabah and as usual this bird come to say “hi” to me again over the years same location.
– found and seen 2 birds at 2 locations. lucky group
– a very similar to Pen Malaysia, same call, same behavior and it is a good bird that never miss so far for 2022
– 正式被名为沙巴鹧鸪。
– 与西马的非常像，叫，”脾气“都一样。2022美好的一年，没错过这鸟。
202209, Sabah, Malaysia
update 202208
– shooting this from boat, the R7 just auto lock focus on the bird eye even this was at quite dark environment and shaky boat (7 people moving for better view). But almost all picture focus lock on
– last bird for previous Sabah trip, we can’t wait for better view as we are rushing back to airport. But this bird never failed as I told my guests, it is always here since years back.
5. Crimson-Headed partridge, 红头林鹧鸪, 紅頭林鷓鴣, Haematortyx sanguiniceps, アカガシラシャコ, SERUK KEPALA MERAH
– Montane Borneo Endemic
– it is pretty common to be seen but not too easy to be photographed
update 202512
I still remember the early days when we worked hard to photograph this beautiful Bornean endemic. Back then, it felt special to get a clean shot. At Kinabalu National Park, the bird is quite used to people, giving great photo opportunities. Nowadays, though, there are many reliable spots where you can get good views and photos of this stunning bird.
– Sabah and Sarawak (Center of Borneo) race seems a bit different
update 202311
– it is off season for here now, after all Malaysia tours… time for some rest and process some 2023 pictures for sharing.
– this is one of the best encounter at Bakelalan, which look different from the Sabah race.
– 进入“雨季“+鸟安静的季节。我们马来西亚的鸟团都停了。是时候休息或看看2023的照片。
– 这是沙捞越的亚种，与沙巴的不一样。有机会看看吧。
202307, Bakelalan, Sarawak, Malaysia
update 202307
– just another not good weather day, we stucked and cannot proceed to ours destination so we birding where the car can reach. This bird is the only bird calling and very soon we have very good view and some picture of this Borneo endemic
Red-breasted Partridge, Arborophila hyperythra (Sarawak , center of Borneo)
At the center of Borneo (Sarawak) all the birds seen with white or light grey supercilium, brighter throat, chin …. which never seen at Kinabalu National Park, Crocker Range.
– a colorful, shy, noisy, moving in group partridge.
– 非常漂亮，害羞，吵的鹧鸪。通常群体行动。
update 202503
It’s a rainy day, and a few birds are perched on a tree. I quickly enable “pre-continuous shooting” and adjust the settings to the maximum speed possible at ISO 25600 and F7.1—1/1600s. Hoping for the best, I got lucky, and the shot of the bird flying down turned out well.
这是一个下雨天，几只鸟停留在树上。我迅速开启“预连续拍摄”模式，并将设置调整到 ISO 25600、F7.1 下的最高速度——1/1600 秒。抱着一丝希望，幸运的是，拍到了一张鸟儿俯冲的精彩瞬间。
202503, Trusmadi, Sabah, Malaysia
#####
update 202310
– 2022-2023 so much rain across Borneo – Pen Malaysia … I forgot how many times I got all wet when in the forest .. how many times we cancel our drive due to heavy rain .. but bird still coming for food while heavy rain
– when I am at the feeding station (without feeding, how we can see it so well), it is boring so I am trying to have some “small like mosquitoes” series support one of my friend always like to shoot environment shots
– love to have slow motion 4k recording. R3 still good option overall for me . compare to R7, R6II for the moment. Fast AF, Accurate AF, button orientation, battery, speed, video format etc
– a lovely and shy bird captured in control environment(feeding station in wild jungle). It is real tough to have it in wild environment.
– sometime really need to give some respect to Bird photographers that really have patient. I don’t have any good photo for this bird before this group of birds that never stop come even heavy rain.
– Smaller than Himalayan snowcock, this species has a grey head and neck with a white patch behind the eye and above the dark cheek. Chin, throat and breast are white, with two grey bands on the breast. Grey wing coverts and tertials have a white trim. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tibetan_snowcock
A beautiful little gamebird of foothill and highland forests with extensive ground-level cover, where it moves about in medium-sized convoys through the dense undergrowth. Usually quiet, though sings melodically and loudly at dusk and dawn. Brightly-colored, even for a partridge; both sexes have a bright orange throat, a bluish-gray chest, and orange-and-white spotting on the sides [Ebird]
At almost every hide we visited, the owners assured us that this bird is always around. However, we didn’t spot it at any of those hides, except on day one when it briefly walked past. Hopefully, everyone on our team managed to capture a photo of this beautiful partridge.
101. Indian Peafowl, 蓝孔雀, 藍孔雀, Pavo cristatus, インドクジャク
An unmistakable, large ground bird. The unmistakable iridescent blue male spreads out its ornamental upper tail feathers when courting females. Females have a shorter tail, an iridescent green neck, and browner plumage. Found in forest, forest edge, and agricultural land. Often seen on paths or alertly feeding in the undergrowth. Can be fairly confiding especially when found close to human habitation. Its loud screaming “may-yow” calls are heard incessantly during the rainy season. [eBird]
– in Sri Lanka, the most common bird to be seen is not sparrow, crow .. but one of them is this beautiful and big bird which can found almost any where, urban, forest edge, forest etc.
– 在斯里兰卡岛上，这鸟几乎哪都看到。大+漂亮
202312, Yala NP, Sri Lanka
151. Red-billed Partridge, 红嘴山鹧鸪, 紅嘴山鷓鴣, Arborophila rubrirostris, アカハシミヤマテッケイ, Puyuh-gonggong sumatera
a very beautiful dark, highland partridge, saw it move it pair
update 202401
– another bird suppose to hope come to feeding station but not, but we managed to heard and found the bird. Again this is another reason setup customize button for my R3 which can shoot in complex environment (just like this) point the focus points (I using 5 point) on to any part of the bird and eye will be lock focus ..very useful and suitable for people like shooting wildbird in move
A large brown francolin with a red face and streaked chest, commonly found in the lowlands of South Africa, particularly in Kruger National Park. It is abundant, tame, and often seen walking around or heard calling.
A very common francolin in Kruger National Park, we encountered it daily inside the park. It was generally very tame. Once, we saw one trying to display to impress a female, but the female seemed uninterested and ran away. After taking countless photos, we decided to capture it flying across the road — with the CANON R1, it was an effortless shot.
A large, mostly dark brown francolin with pale feather-edging that forms a fine scaly pattern on the body. It also has dull red legs and a mostly reddish bill with a dark top and yellow base. The pale eyebrow and throat are emphasized on a dark face. The juvenile is duller. The loud, territorial crowing call (“kak-kaak, kak-keek, kak-keek”) is given from a low perch; it increases in pitch but decreases in volume. Bold and confiding, it is widespread and common in its range; found in fynbos, semi-arid zones, and coastal scrub. Gray-winged Francolin differs by having yellow legs, a rufous-streaked chest, and a gray-and-brown necklacing pattern. [Ebird]
This species is very common around Cape Town—we easily spotted it along the roadside on our way to the hills and inside the Botanical Garden. It’s incredibly tame, showing no concern for humans. Its feather pattern is simply stunning, making it look truly beautiful.
This was our very first partridge of the trip — it crossed the road right in front of us, and I was quick enough to get a few shots before it vanished.
Partridges in Africa seem much easier to spot than those in Asia — they’re generally not shy at all, unlike the ones we usually struggle to see back home.
1. Marbled Wren-Babbler, 石纹鹪鹛, 石紋鷦鶥, Turdinus marmoratus, ウロコサザイチメドリ, KEKICAU-MURAI BESAR BUKIT
– a sub-montane bird which big in size .. shy and move fast
– normally low almost close to ground
update 202411
– A large Wren-babbler that is highly vocal, active, and shy. It is one of the most thrilling birds to spot and photograph.
–
Another fortunate morning! After successfully spotting one of the main target Pittas, this bird, as always, actively looked for other interesting birds near the hotel.
– as usual, this shy bird always hiding behind something. But this time with CANON R3, using single point to touch any part of the bird body. The bird eye will be lock focus and track. So simple compare to old time.
How I wish can spend more time with this beautiful bird, but guests still has targets.. lets move on.
– lowland bird that can found both 2nd forest and primary forest
– very beautiful calling
– small Wren-babbler with white breasted and normally move in pair
update 202508
What a wonderful morning! This bird started calling from a distance, then went silent for a while—suddenly, it began calling right behind us! Two of them were standing together, calling to each other. A truly amazing sight for everyone.
Whenever I’m in Borneo, this active and beautiful bird is always high on my list—it’s one I definitely don’t want to miss! It can sticks to the forest edge and stayed around for a good while this time, giving us a great view.
It is a stunning and energetic bird that is almost impossible to miss in Danum Valley. However, this time, it posed a real challenge to photograph as it approached us but mostly stayed on the ground. Still, everyone had a great view of it.
– a bird that usually quite difficult to be photograph at Peninsula Malaysia, seem easier at Borneo. Almost never missed this bird at Danum Valley. But when I am at another famous birding spot Tabin Wildlife Reserve, this bird seem same like Danum Valley. not really shy … easy to get picture too
– a difficult to miss bird in Danum Valley, it will come even from far and normally just stand quite still not far from us. A lovely Wren-babbler
– 丹浓谷非常普通也很少会错过的鸟。非常漂亮
202409, Danum Valley, Sabah, Malaysia
#####
update 202408
– almost never miss bird from Danum Valley, very first few bird for the morning. It just stand there for us ..but still dark .. ISO 10000
– 丹浓谷几乎不会错过的鸟。在第一个早上，这鸟一大早就跳出来让我们看个够。
202408, Danum Valley, Sabah, Malaysia
#####
update 202407
– a bird that never miss and bore to see and photograph again and again. This time, it just appear just ~100m from the lodge. very active to be calling non stop
– this bird seem not easy at any where, but Danum Valley, BRL seem very easy .. I almost never miss this bird even for picture … but not this time, day1…day2 we tried very hard even went into trail but this bird seem very quick show and gone no one seem have good view except me 🙁 …but this bird just sudden appear at main road after we got the Finsch’s Bulbul … it just stand there and sing+dance for us
– very lucky moment, I am suppose to look for ours last missing target. But I saw these 2 birds keep moving together and I decided to spend minutes to have some good video and pictures. After I got few clips, the Giant Pitta call and that’s the best moment happen. Got the Giant pitta calling for everyone of us
– this lovely bird always accompany me when I looking for some special targets for guests. As usual, think one of most easy place to see this bird is Sabah.
– 这鸟每次当我找目标鸟时，它总是在附近叫不停。在沙巴这鸟应该很容易看到。
202305, Danum Valley, Sabah, Malaysia
update 2017 Jul 18
update 2016 Sept 19
beautiful call
update 2016 Jul 10
3. Streaked Wren-Babbler, 短尾鹪鹛, 短尾鷦鶥, Turdinus brevicaudatus, ノドフサザイチメドリ, KEKICAU-MURAI GUNUNG BIASA
– streaky breast small wren-babbler
– another small and moving non stop found near sub-montane and montane area
update 202507
As active as ever, but thankfully it gave us a brief window for some nice shots. While many are complaining about the 1.0.3 firmware, I personally didn’t face any AF issues. The R1 still locks focus quickly and tracks the bird really well!
update 202410
– a very active Wren-Babbler as other Wren-Babbler. Very good in details if photograph close.
– lucky morning meet this pair active bird real close and stay long for us to capture many lovely photos.
– 与其他鹪鹛一样，非常活跃。很上镜的一只鸟，拍起来非常好看。
– 一个幸运的早上，遇上这一对鸟。非常的乖，跑来很近+就让我们拍到美美。
202410, Fraser Hill, Pahang, Malaysia
#####
update 202403
CANON R3, CANON RF200-800mm
Pahang, Malaysia
– lucky to have this bird calling non stop at road side when we just arrive to check out
4. Large Wren-Babbler, 大鹪鹛, 大鷦鶥, Turdinus macrodactylus, オオサザイチメドリ, KEKICAU-MURAI BESAR BIASA
– big and active Wren Babbler
– many different calls
– lowland
update 202412
After returning from Lombok, Ramesh was eager to tick off the long-awaited Large Wren-Babbler from his list. So, we decided to visit Lanchang, Pahang. We spent about an hour on one trail, where we only heard the bird’s call but were entertained by a few other birds. Opting to change locations, we entered another trail, and before long, the bird started calling again. With some patience and a bit of luck, the Large Wren-Babbler emerged, calling for several minutes. What a lucky encounter!
– a large and really shy bird, keep changing call. sometime can difficult to spot even it stand near and close
– travel 1 hour special target to this bird, first bird sight .. only heard and not seen. 2nd bird came close and stay so long .. everyone has good view
– another example to show .. my picture is different ? I am sure many say, why so bad quality, not an open picture, bla bla … but do you know ? most of my situation … the bird is in the forest, I need to make sure my guests have a view of it and gave them good angle than only my turn to look for “leftover” angle to have a photo … no complaint ahhhhh …give a like please haha
– and normally we see it mean we need to look for other bird soon .. not stay there waiting ..
– a day tour end up with this amazing active bird which stay at open for more than 25 minutes … good view, picture and video
– 一日观鸟，尽然遇上这么一只很“傻”的活跃+害羞的鸟。站着叫了最少25分钟。
202308, Lanchang, Pahang, Malaysia
update 202308
– a very tough trip at Taman Negara, even we had some good birds but most the birds really difficult to even seen. This bird make use suffer for 3 days, finally in the evening stand so long for us to have good view
– a very active bird, lucky to have few moment captured it calling but too bad I can’t handle the 400mm well with handhled. can see shaky
– as usual it making funny calls, it change call for more than 4 differents
– lucky guest to see this bird for 2 times in 2 days. He insist to have a better look at this target bird. But the first bird seem does not cooperate for him to have good look. Next day , next destination this bird stand long for us.
– Borneo Endemic , which shy move fast as usual Wren-babbler ..
– most the time move close to ground
– white with streak on breast , long bill
update 202412
Another unforgettable moment with this rare, incredibly shy, and active Borneo endemic. It’s hard to believe it stayed in front of us, slowly moving, for quite a while—just about 10 feet away. Truly a remarkable memory to cherish for 2024.
– so far, this bird just too difficult to capture video, saw them display before but inside dark area and deep in bush or else moving fast and calling .. finally one of the moment I want to share .. how this bird making this song and hope one day capture how it making the call .
– another good moment with this bird, it is difficult to while this bird love to moving near ground and very active. Some of us just see the bird jumping around … but after lunch I decide to check out again. Very lucky to have this bird just ~10 feet from me ..
– never want to missed this bird while I am in Borneo, one of my top 3 birds to be seen and photograph. It happen to my last bird of long main tour. Good view for all, record picture for this super active bird.
– a must see bird at Danum Valley, one of favorite. It is always active and good to have good view.
– 婆罗洲我最喜欢鸟之一。每次到丹浓谷，我都非常期待看到他。他的活跃，叫声是多么的吸引人。
202403, Danum Valley, Sabah
#####
update 202310
– 2023 is very good year, I didn’t missed any chance to look for this at Danum Valley. active and beautiful bird for photography
– 2023 我在丹绒谷，几乎没错过一次拍这鸟。很活跃，漂亮的鸟。
202307, Danum Valley, Sabah, Malaysia
udpate 202309
– Wren-Babbler always my favorite bird to photograph, it is just challenge , beautiful … this bird always my number 1 bird to be chase each time I am at Borneo
– 鹪鹛是我最喜欢拍摄鸟种之一。因为充满挑战+漂亮。特别是这一只，每次到婆罗洲我都要挑战他的。
202307, Danum Valley, Sabah, Malaysia
update 202307
– really like the front view of this active bird. most of the time on low near ground.
– 它的正面，真的很好看。这鸟，通常在很低活动。
202307, Danum Valley, Sabah, Malaysia
####
– this bird seldom stop more than 1-2s. it always on the move and on low ground. I had tried long to get a video. But always failed, not even more than 3s so far .. finally this time I got ~10s even it is not really focus and good view but this is how the bird behave – hope one day can have better video … – 这鸟总是不停的动，几乎不停多过1-2秒。还要主要在地上，试了好几年还是没办法拍多过3秒的视频。还是觉得，不是这么容易。这次拍到好几秒它怎么动。虽然，没很好对焦。可是先加减看看。
###
– when look close it is so gorgeous especially the front pattern
– most of them really shy, it is so difficult to have a open view this time. But I still meet one over the after lunch walk. managed to have some pictures and “walking” video
– as usual, a fast moving “ground” level wren-babbler come close to me but just quiet stand there looking at me while the Stripe Wren-Babbler calling non stop nearby,
– 这鸟如常鬼鬼祟祟的在附近看我，以为我看不到他。真的很喜欢这鸟。
202306, Danum Valley, Sabah, Malaysia
update 202305
– my favorite bird and this make another favorite picture for me as it look at me for ~1s just like the way it stand and sing.
– 最喜欢鸟种之一，这也是我最喜欢照片之一。这样看我很可爱。
202305, Danum Valley, Sabah, Malaysia
###
– one of my favorite bird of Malaysia, I heard Blue-headed Pitta, Striped Wren-Babbler & this bird calling and while I am hiding and waiting for Blue-headed Pitta to show. This bird suddenly appear as this, shooting 500mm at almost no crop.
– never boring to see this bird and happy to see it again after long
– 疫情关系，2年没到婆罗洲非常高兴又见到它了。
202205, Danum Valley, Sabah, Malaysia
update 2020 March 22
– rare lowland Borneo Endemic
update 2017 June 12
#
6. Eyebrowed Wren-Babbler, 纹胸鹪鹛, 紋胸鷦鶥, Napothera epilepidota, コサザイチメドリ, KEKICAU KENING PANJANG
– an active small wren-babbler ..
– limited locations for this bird
update 202509
Just returned from a very special birding trip. My guest, Jonathan, had high expectations for bird photography. Although we didn’t see or photograph a large number of species, it was still a rewarding and memorable experience for both of us.
We stayed mobile throughout the trip, adjusting plans based on bird activity and Jonathan’s target species. One highlight was our determination to get a better shot of the Crimson-headed Partridge—which led to an unforgettable moment. A normally shy and fast-moving wren-babbler suddenly came into the open and stayed there, calling non-stop for almost 10 minutes! This species usually disappears after 1–2 seconds, so it was truly a rare and special encounter.
刚刚结束了一次非常特别的摄鸟之旅。我的客人 Jonathan 对鸟类摄影有很高的要求。虽然这次看到和拍到的鸟不算多，但对我们来说却是一次非常有意义和难忘的经历。
Finally got my photo lifer for Sabah! This bird has always been tricky—I had seen it twice before but never had the chance to photograph it. Today, I heard its unique call, and not long after, it came in silently and stood in the shadows. What a stunning bird!
Still quite shy overall, but with patience came trust. Grateful for that moment—this uncommon bird finally gave us a clear view and photo opportunity as a reward for our quiet persistence.
“I’ve always liked wren-babblers, and this is one of the least-seen species in Malaysia. I happened to hear and spot this bird by chance—it was such a different experience compared to before. Finally, I managed to get some good photos!
It is a very special bird to see again, and this time, it is not as shy as it was years ago. It’s great to know they are still around and have found a partner.
always one of my favorite bird to be seen or photograph. This is one I seldom meet at Malaysia but it is pretty common at Sumatra, Indonesia
这是一种我在马来西亚很少见到的鸟，但在印度尼西亚的苏门答腊挺常见的。”
202411, Danau Kaco, Sumatra, Indonesia
#####
update 202411
– A tiny and very shy bird that is difficult to get a good view of or photograph. Based on my sightings across Peninsular Malaysia, Borneo, and Sumatra, both Sumatra and Borneo offer slightly better chances of seeing this bird clearly. However, Sumatra seems to be the best place for capturing good photos. Without a doubt, the bird stayed long enough for me—even allowing me to record a video!
– It’s one of those tiny, mysterious birds that appears briefly and disappears just as quickly. Rare and shy, it’s often challenging to get a clear view. I photographed this bird in Sumatra last year, and this year, with the Photography group, we put in extra effort for a better shot. Finally, we were rewarded with some truly amazing moments with this elusive bird…
– another favorite bird of mine, active and beautiful Borneo endemic. But for last few months, seem difficult to have some photo of this bird. Lucky morning to have this small flock moving along the road side.
– very small wren-babbler no tail that move very fast
– split to different family Pnoepygidae, may make another sharing
– 被分鹩鹛属
update 202409
– one of my favorite birds of Malaysia, it is small, cute, active and lovely bird. It always moving with wing span open. But it almost invisible by naked eye.
– with the new canon Pre-continuous Shooting function, simple when see the bird stay still, half-press shutter .. and when see the wing open or move press the shutter .. than anything happen in before .5s will be record as raw into camera .. make this kind of picture simple
9. Black-throated wren-babbler, 黑喉鹪鹛, 黑喉鷦鶥, ノドグロサザイチメドリ, KEKICAU-MURAI BESAR BORNEO
– Borneo endemic
– few different calls
– can perch high up after alert
update 202510
We were searching for a special target, but this bird unexpectedly showed up and stayed in the open for over 10 minutes! Interestingly, both the previous and next tours spent so much time trying to get a clear view of it. What an incredible bird when seen up close!
It’s quite funny—this bird gave us such a hard time in our previous tours, but this time, she just showed up right in front of us while we were focusing on another target! And she stayed at the same spot like she was taking a nap!
Unfortunately, I told my friend to check the same spot later… but no sign of the bird at all!
This is one of the less common Borneo endemics, but almost guaranteed if you visit Danum Valley. Despite being active and often tricky to photograph, we were lucky this time. After getting all our main targets, we spent some extra time and finally managed a decent look and a few shots—even if it didn’t stay still for long!
– long time never been Tabin Wildlife Reserve, this time come here for quick one and meet up my very first Guide from Danum Valley BRL .. Paul .. We spend 3 mornings and 2 evening for birding .. not really bad overall, got all 3 Wren-Babbler .. this is one active moving around
– a Borneo endemic pretty common lowland – sub-montane forest. It is a bird seldom miss at Danum Valley.. but still difficult to have a good photo.
– 一只婆罗洲特有种从低海拔-中海拔都能找到。在丹浓谷很少或看不到。可是拍好照片还是需要点运气。
202406, Danum Valley, Sabah, Malaysia
#####
update 20240324
– another reason to be at Danum Valley, as this bird is common here and difficult to miss it. active and with few different amazing “call”
– 另一个理由要到丹浓谷观鸟。这鸟在这蛮普通，几乎很难错过的。这鸟也蛮活跃+吵的。
202403, Danum Valley, Sabah, Malaysia
#####
update 202307
– all of sudden almost any where also heard this bird calling. very active moving as usual. but this bird seem willing to stand here for me take some good pictures and video
– 突然几乎每个森林都听到他叫。可是还是超活跃，可是这家伙。站蛮久。几乎全部都客人都看的非常好。
202307, Danum Valley, Sabah, Malaysia
####
– a bird that make many different call, very active and shy for photography.
– as other Wren-Babbler this one same moving really fast and active surprise it is not very shy. Moving in pair and bush fast
– 与其他鹪鹛一样动作非常快，草丛中跳来跳去，可是好像不是很害羞。
update 202401
– almost not possible to get the picture of this endemic bird with bird watcher … but lucky or not so lucky the main target is no show … while we waiting, I personal looking for this bird and lucky to have this better moment for photo and I actually got 3 in 1 frame.
– male with ref bellied and tailed , female without the red
update 202505
What a fantastic day at Fraser’s Hill—surrounded by stunning views and so many amazing birds! I missed capturing a few, but this tiny, colorful one couldn’t escape my lens.
– just another good decision to make, we change ours original plan to looking for this beautiful bird and it did show quite well for all of us. Still one of most beautiful bird of Malaysia
– 我们赌了一把，换了原本路线。到这找找这鸟。尽然真的看到，还要蛮久。马来西亚最漂亮鸟之一吧。
202305, Selangor, Malaysia
update 202209
– a special arrangement for guest, lucky to found this handsome again.
– 客人的特别要求，安排到这。幸运的见到几只很近的距离。
202209, Pahang, Malaysia
update 202205
– never get bore to see this lovely and colorful bird and it was a lucky day it show up to us in the early morning
– 谁看到这鸟会不喜欢？幸运的一个早晨，一对在我与客人的面前出现。
202205, Fraser Hill, Pahang, Malaysia
update 202106
– normally moving in group, male with brighter color (blue face, yellow, red) belly and longer tail
– this is a special morph, Yellow or Golden which is more rare
– 通常群体活动
– 公鸟，颜色较鲜艳。头部较多蓝，腹部红，尾巴较长。
– 这是较特别个体，尾部鱼腹部都是黄的。比较稀有。
202009, Fraser Hill, Pahang, Malaysia
update 2020 Sept
update 2016 Nov 1
– as usual the season is coming .. it show actively now
– a very beautiful appear at a very weird place where just near beach, dry area and strong wind. A small little pond attract so many of this bird keep coming.
A small finch with a striking white head and dark body. Rich chestnut brown above, with reddish tail and pale peach-washed underside. Juveniles much duller and browner, but usually show a paler head. Gregarious, found in terrestrial flocks, often with other finches, in open country such as marshes, croplands, grasslands and scrub, in the lowlands. Juvenile has a paler head and a noticeably smaller bill than juvenile Five-colored Munia. Gives weak, high-pitched “weee” and stronger, metallic “wit-wit-wit” notes [Ebird]
This munia is very common in the open areas of Lombok Island and can be spotted almost everywhere. It resembles the White-headed Munia but features a darker back and front.
It’s rare! After so many visits to Tomohon without a single sighting, I finally managed to see one this year. Not the most colorful, but still a lovely bird to see.
For Peninsula Malaysia a blackbird that loves to moving fast in the forest …. we make a trip just for this bird .. but found out it is not really active but was lucky it appear for food just 10-15min before we leaving … ~33cm
For Borneo ~28cm , smaller . Brownish color but behave same, moving fast and making a lot of noise.
Had an incredible time birding with a patient group from Canada. After a quiet start at our first stop, we headed deeper into the National Park. Suddenly, I caught a familiar call—I couldn’t help but shout, ‘Jayshrike!’ We got so lucky when it flew out and perched right in front of us. What a spectacular view, absolutely brilliant!
202602, Taman Negara Sungai Relau, Pahang, Malaysia
#####
update 202508
Another very special tour—so happy we managed to see this unique monotypic species (one of the three target species in Malaysia) with great views! We did struggle a bit with the Rail-babbler though… it hasn’t responded at all for the past 1.5 days. Fingers crossed we’ll have better luck in the next two days!
It was so exciting to hear this just as we were leaving Fraser’s Hill. In our group, three of us are seriously working on seeing bird families around the world, and although we had three sightings during the tour, this one gave us the best view—perhaps even better than the one at Sungai Relau. Plus, I managed to get a photo of this one. Such a lovely bird!
– finally all 5 special 2 bird family tours done for Rail-Babbler & this Jayshrike .. this year lucky to have 100% . This bird normally quite straight forward but it missing for the 1st day and only heard but without show us . Day2, early morning when we step down from car, immediate I heard the call within 2 minutes we got the bird and Bingo !!
– another special trip to this “South” of Peninsular Malaysia but this time we actually target only Malaysian Rail-Babbler and Cinnamon-rumped Trogon. Day1 , we already have this bird again with better view and photo and the Rail-Babbler give a good view but …
– an active bird that everyone seem special look for this bird family
– another very good encounter from Borneo, which smaller and color different from Peninsular Malaysia/Thailand species (which is bigger and Black)
– not really sure just me, it getting difficult to have good view for this bird at Borneo .. it just get more shy compare to before pandemic
– 在婆罗洲行，另一只突然听到，看到，拍到的好鸟。与马来西亚西马，泰国的颜色不一样+小一点。
– 不知道是我而已还是有点变化，疫情前蛮容易看到。可是疫情后，几乎那个地方都很害羞。
202405, Danum Valley, Sabah, Malaysia
#####
update 202406
– a uncommon special bird family, a very black and active bird to be seen. It is not easy almost whole Malaysia except some South part of Malaysia
– we keep heard and miss this special bird for a long tour but it is so easy at the end of the extension.
– 蛮不普通的其中一种鸟种。非常害羞，活跃。几乎都不容易见到，除了在西马南部
– 19天观鸟团，就见到它飞来飞去。非常不容易，就在加长部分非常容易就见到了。
202406, Lenggor, Johor, Malaysia
#####
update 202307
– a special Rail-Babbler tour, and what a bonus of so many special birds included this cool looking, active bird.
– 白眉长颈鸫特别团，也看到很多很特别的鸟。包括这只稀有，害羞，有形有款的黑鸟。
202307, Lenggor, Johor, Malaysia
####
– an early morning with quite heavy rain, while I am waiting in the car a group of 5 birds keep flying around and making calls. I still walking out to captured some pictures and 2 sg Bird Photographers join me the raining chasing fun
– a black bird, use to be very active and shy. But not this time, very friendly to us.
– a very special bird to be seen and it was a 2nd bird of the day and it make our good day and trip 2 hour travel. It stay for very long for us to have very good view, pictures, videos.
– 一只非常活跃，害羞的鸟。这次非常的友善。站了很久很近，让我们拍的好好的。
20230216, Lenggor, Johor, Malaysia
update 202105
– just another 2017 archive picture, never get bored to see this special bird which really noisy in the forest and active moving around
