A yearly event, we have our yearly Hornbill Expedition trip to Belum-Temengor even the Covid-19 lock down but we make it short instead, where we just spend 1.5 days boat ride and 2 morning at Titiwangsa Rest area (which is ~30km from Belum jetty).
This forest believe to be older than 130 million years, due to the lake crossing the main forest make it an open area for hornbill seeing good spot … it is always to better chance to spot all 10 hornbills of Malaysia here within few days of birding trip.
As usual, our main target is Plain-pouched hornbill which believe peak season Aug-Sept every year.. easily spot them in big flocks flying on skyline here.
Plain-pouched Hornbill, 淡喉皱盔犀鸟,淡喉皺盔犀鳥, Rhyticeros subruficollis, ムジシワコブサイチョウ, ENGGANG GUNUNG BELANTARA
Sometime, birding here can be depressing, birds can be far !!!! not even able to ID without photo record as only using binocular ….
But it is always good place to capture some Bird in flight due to open area and with some distance .. (for photographers, we need little bit luck and patient to have birds nearer and flying)
Wreathed Hornbill, 花冠皱盔犀鸟, Rhyticeros undulatus, シワコブサイチョウ, ENGGANG GUNUNG BIASA
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sometime, lucky to have it perch low too.
Great Hornbill, 双角犀鸟, Buceros bicornis, オオサイチョウ,ENGGANG PAPAN
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a very common hornbill but here it can stand 300m at the canopy .. the only option waiting it flying to get some BIF picture
Oriental Pied-Hornbill, 冠斑犀鸟, Anthracoceros albirostris, キタカササギサイチョウ,KELINGKING BIASA
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Black Hornbill should be one of the most common here but this is our last hornbill record for the trip .. during the boat session, we hard quite a lot of this bird but we just didn’t see the bird come close or open
Black Hornbill, 黑斑犀鸟, Anthracoceros malayanus, クロサイチョウ,KELINGKING HITAM
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Another Critically Endangered due to killing this bird for the solid-beautiful ivory like casques.. at here it is not difficult to see one ..
here is the main target for the trip, Plain-pouched hornbill. It look almost identical like Wreathed Hornbill except
lack of grooves on bill
small size
lack of a black patch on the pouch
Plain-pouched Hornbill, 淡喉皱盔犀鸟,淡喉皺盔犀鳥, Rhyticeros subruficollis, ムジシワコブサイチョウ, ENGGANG GUNUNG BELANTARA
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lucky to have this perch quite low
Plain-pouched Hornbill, 淡喉皱盔犀鸟,淡喉皺盔犀鳥, Rhyticeros subruficollis, ムジシワコブサイチョウ, ENGGANG GUNUNG BELANTARA
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There are a group
Bushy-crested Hornbill, 凤头犀鸟 spotted but this happen while Great Hornbill perch low … so we decided give it a missed than we didn’t see it any more for the trip ..
*** picture from previous tour
Bushy-crested Hornbill, 凤头犀鸟,鳳頭犀鳥, Anorrhinus galeritus, ムジサイチョウ, Burung Arau, ENGGANG BULUH
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only 8 hornbills for the 1.5 days boat ride but this is mainly targeting the Plain-pouched Hornbill where we spotted 9 groups and ~377 birds
There are some other birds also captured during the tour on the boat and Titiwangsa Rest area which is ~30km from Belum Jetty ,… as below
Oriental Honey-buzzard, 凤头蜂鹰
at this season , plenty of this raptor can be sight
Oriental Honey-buzzard, 凤头蜂鹰
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2. Lesser Fish-Eagle, 鱼雕
many fish eagle can be easily spot
Lesser Fish-Eagle, 鱼雕
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3. Gray-headed Fish-Eagle, 灰头鱼雕
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4.White-bellied Sea-Eagle, 白腹海雕
wont miss this bird here , plenty of them either flying high or low
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5.Large Green-Pigeon,大绿鸠
– very easy to spot this bird but as usual, standing high up in big flock
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6.Black-thighed falconet, 黑腿小隼
captured at Titiwangsa rest area which is ~30km further from Belum Jetty from Kuala Kangsar direction
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7. Sultan Tit, 冕雀
captured at Titiwangsa rest area which is ~30km further from Belum Jetty from Kuala Kangsar direction
both male and female come near the light area for insect attracted by the light
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8. Scarlet Minivet, 赤红山椒鸟
captured at Titiwangsa rest area which is ~30km further from Belum Jetty from Kuala Kangsar direction
both male and female come near the light area for insect attracted by the light
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9. Large Woodshrike, 鉤嘴林鵙
captured at Titiwangsa rest area which is ~30km further from Belum Jetty from Kuala Kangsar direction
both male and female come near the light area for insect attracted by the light
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.
3. Great Barbet, 大拟啄木鸟, 大擬啄木, Psilopogon virens, オオゴシキドリ
This largest of the barbets is colorful, but often appears all-dark from a distance. No other barbet in its range combines the features of a massive pale bill, black head, and dark olive back. Sluggish and shy; tends to stick to dense forest canopy, where it is difficult to see. Its loud hooting song (typically a series of two repetitive notes) is often the only indication of this species’s presence. Also gives a harsh, screaming “karrrrr” that has a gull-like quality. [Ebird]
I’ve seen this bird many times in various places but never had the chance to capture a photo—until now. Here, we finally had numerous opportunities to take some great shots.
Seeing the photo afterward was a completely different kind of excitement, as the vibrant colors that define the bird truly stood out. Simply incredible!
A gregarious babbler with a dark back and underparts spangled with scaly silver markings. At first glance, may resemble a cupwing, but this babbler is much larger and longer-tailed, and does not stick as closely to the ground as cupwings do. Often moves deep in dense shrubbery, but will occasionally forage in the middle layers of the forest as well, scaling trees and creeping along branches. [Ebird]
One of the stunning babblers has such flat body feather details that it almost resembles a drawing.
An 8-day journey to Yunnan, particularly to this bird photography paradise, is almost at its end. As expected, capturing great photos of many species was as simple as sitting and waiting. However, a bit of luck was still needed. According to local, the number of bird species visiting has decreased, and with more hides available, the birds may now spread out instead of gathering in the usual spots. Regardless, we thoroughly enjoyed our authentic photography experience here.
Although the trip isn’t over yet, this moment stands out as one of my favorites. The bird was incredibly active, appearing for just a split second with an almost surreal “flat” look to its body—like a 2D drawing. But with patience, it rewarded us with some fantastic views as the day drew to a close.
This tiny bird moves swiftly through the bushes, making it incredible that we managed to spot it.
It’s a bird everyone on this trip has been eager to photograph. Yesterday, only Amy and I were lucky enough to capture it, while others could only catch a glimpse without getting any photos. However, luck was on our side today! Two different Tesias came close to us within just 15 minutes, giving everyone the chance they had been hoping for. Tonight, we can all sleep soundly, content with the experience.
An active little bird with a bright yellow belly and a pale-tipped fan-like tail. Most common in foothill and submontane broadleaf forests, where it forages energetically and acrobatically in the middle and lower levels, often with fulvettas, warblers, and other small passerines in mixed-species foraging flocks. Very similar in shape to fantails but much smaller, and actually more closely related to tits. Song is a series of high “tsit” notes interspersed with twitters and trills. Call is often repeated at length, akin to a song, but much simpler, a series of high “tsip” notes. [Ebird]
An active little bird with a bright yellow belly and a pale-tipped fan-like tail. Most common in foothill and submontane broadleaf forests, where it forages energetically and acrobatically in the middle and lower levels, often with fulvettas, warblers, and other small passerines in mixed-species foraging flocks. Very similar in shape to fantails but much smaller, and actually more closely related to tits. Song is a series of high “tsit” notes interspersed with twitters and trills. Call is often repeated at length, akin to a song, but much simpler, a series of high “tsip” notes.
update 202412
One of the most active birds, behaving much like a fantail. While it’s not a lifer for me—I previously recorded it in Northern Thailand—it’s still a challenge to spot here in Yunnan, China. Thankfully, luck was on our side, and we managed to witness it spreading its tail, giving us a few great moments for some good photo opportunities.
One of a number of mind-numbingly similar Seicercus warblers. Greenish-yellow above and bright yellow below, with a faint wingbar, a yellow eyering, and a grayish crown marked by two black stripes. Gray of the crown is weaker than that of White-spectacled and Plain-tailed Warblers, but this feature is difficult to see in the shade of the understory, where it usually forages. Breeds in submontane and montane forest up to the treeline; averages higher Martens’s Warbler. Descends into submontane and hill forest in the non-breeding season. Song is an unremarkable but lively burst of whistled notes, lower in pitch than that of Plain-tailed Warbler. [Ebird]
A tiny warbler with a sudden flash of “yellowish” plumage appeared, and I immediately thought, “It’s a new bird!” Naturally, everyone quickly grabbed their cameras to capture it. It only showed up briefly while we were casually waiting for birds to come to the water.
8. Small Niltava, 小仙鹟, 小仙鶲, Niltava macgrigoriae, チビアオヒタキ
Size distinguishes this species from other niltavas; coloration is quite similar to Large Niltava, which is double the size. Male Small Niltava is bright blue with the brightest patches on the shoulder and forehead. Female is brown with a white eyering and a rufous tail and wingtips. Forages in the lower and middle levels of hilly and montane forests, usually singly. Listen for its distinctive song, a cleanly descending “wee-dee-dee.” [EBird]
Another bird we encountered, found only at a single hide despite visiting many others, initially appeared quite shy. However, after a few hours of brief appearances, it gradually became more comfortable and eventually stayed long enough for some great photos.
We chose this hide specifically for this bird and spotted it early in the morning. Afterward, we decided to move to another hide. The male arrived briefly before leaving, but luck was on our side as we caught the moment.
One of the standout birds at Baihualing, Yunnan, China is often seen as a highlight by both locals and visitors. Whenever someone spots or photographs one, it becomes big news in the village, quickly drawing bird enthusiasts and photographers to the area. This one shows up unexpectedly, as it did this time to take a drink, it captivates everyone around. It is a beautiful bird, with the female being particularly striking.
This is a fairly common bird in the area, but it moves too quickly to capture good shots. It often hides in dark and damp spots, making it a wonderfully active but elusive subject.
Tiny, stumpy bird of dense undergrowth. Male is dark slate-blue with broad white eyebrows that give him the appearance of a furious little old man. Female is warm pale brown all over. In areas of overlap with Chinese and Lesser Shortwings, look out for the all-dark lower belly, which is white in those species. Inhabits hill and montane forest, where it forages in dense undergrowth, frequently in proximity to streams. Song is composed of high thin whistles with short bursts of clicking chattering mixed in.
While everyone was focused on a few main target birds, one of our buddies, who could be considered a new birder, suddenly shouted, “Shortwing!” He was so proud of himself for identifying a bird on his own. Honestly, I think he should be even happier if he managed to spot a rare bird feeding instead!
Medium-sized owl with significant variation in plumage and vocalizations across its large range. Either gray or brown in coloration, with prominent pale ear tufts and pale face outlined in black. Fond of open wooded habitats from lowlands to foothills, often found roosting in temples, houses, and gardens, particularly in rural areas. Larger and more strongly tufted than both Oriental and Mountain Scops-Owls; both also lack the black facial border. Listen for this species’ incisive, short hoots, given at well-spaced intervals (often around 10 seconds). [Ebird]
It is quite a common bird, even in Malaysia. It was previously classified as the Sunda Scops-Owl but is now considered part of the Collared Scops-Owl. We often had one just outside our room, almost every day.
There is always debate about using torches or flashlights on birds, with no clear consensus on whether it is right or wrong for nature. However, there are certain actions we should never take or support, such as keeping them in cages or tying them up. It’s disheartening to know that many people still do such things, often just for the sake of a photograph.
Tiny brown flycatcher with a triangular white bib bordered with black. Gray head, frosty white brow, and ruddy wings and tail are not as eye-catching as the throat patch, but just as distinctive. Unobtrusive and retiring, generally keeping to the dense lower levels of foothill forests. Frequently forages in inaccessible gorges and thick streamside vegetation. Usually seen singly, occasionally in pairs. [Ebird]
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.
Small songbird of forest edges, open scrub, and farmland, usually seen in pairs or small flocks. Male is silvery gray overall with black face and white supercilium, throat, belly, and wing patches. Female dull brown overall, with a rufous tail and faded version of the male’s head pattern. Bold but not very active, usually seen perching for long periods on posts and overhead wires. Song is bright and melodious, but often has a somewhat faltering quality, trailing off towards the end. Most common call is a harsh rising “bzeeet!”. [EBird]
During one of the quieter moments while waiting for a Scarlet Finch, a female caught my attention. As it flew around, I decided to enable Continuous Pre-record mode, just in case. Suddenly, it spread its wings, and I seized the perfect moment to press the shutter after see the action, capturing this stunning shot.
Adorable tiny bird that loosely resembles a minute tailless wren. Warm dark brown above with rufous overtones, and scaled below; pale-morph birds have white edgings to black “scales,” while dark-morph birds have edgings that are coffee-stain tan. Smaller Pygmy Cupwing lacks the tan spots speckling the crown and neck of Scaly-breasted. Scaly-breasted inhabits dark, damp areas in dense forest, often around boulders, streams, and ravines. Song is a jumbled series of high-pitched melodic warbles, notably more complex than the song of Pygmy Cupwing. [Ebird]
On our last day in Baihualing, we spotted two distinctly different tiny, tailless birds. At a distance of about 10-15 meters, I initially assumed they were the same Pygmy Cupwing. However, upon reviewing the captured photos, it was clear they were different species.
Knowing their behavior of spreading their wings when moving, I enabled Continuous Pre-record mode and pressed the shutter the moment the bird moved. Got it!
A common inhabitant of lowland and foothill tropical forests, where it sings brightly but often unseen from the canopy; listen for its repeated 3- or 4-syllabled ‘took-o-rrook!’ Tends to be more common in edge areas and degraded forests than other barbets. Bright green with a blue throat, a red-and-yellow crown, and a heavy, pale-based bill. Birds at the northern and western parts of this species’ range have a black brow, while southern birds don’t. [Ebird]
A vibrant bird with a predominantly blue head, commonly found in BaiHuaLing, Yunnan, China. Its calls are nearly constant throughout the area, and it occasionally comes down to forage for food and water.
Possibly the species to which the moniker of “scimitar-babbler” attaches most fittingly, as this inhabitant of high-altitude evergreen forests has a bill shaped like a curved sword. Predominantly orange-brown, with a gray head and jagged white eyebrow. Easily identified, even if seen only in silhouette; no other babbler in its range has such a long, sharply curved bill. Moves through the lower levels of the forest in large, noisy flocks. [ebird]
This bird has an oddly thin and curved beak, giving it a truly unique appearance. Though active, it’s not hard to spot here. At many bird hides, it readily comes out to grab food before retreating, making it relatively easy to see and photograph.
One of the most captivating birds of Baihualing, Yunnan, with its vibrant and striking colors, complemented by a charming crest, is both active and beautiful.
Birding in Yunnan, China last December was incredibly easy. We simply chose a hide, settled in, and waited—and sure enough, the birds came! In fact, there were so many, it was just a matter of picking which ones to photograph. We specifically came to this hide hoping to see the woodpecker, but we were also treated to a few star species like the Great Barbet, Slender-billed Scimitar-Babbler, and more.
This was a family holiday, so there wasn’t much birding planned. Still, I carried a wide-angle lens and the RF 100–500mm with me. In winter, there are plenty of gulls around, especially near the lake. One morning, I came across a group of gulls feeding very close by. I spent a few quick moments capturing this beautiful bird at close range.
It was a freezing morning at around –6°C. We went to Napa Lake mainly to revisit some good memories from years ago. After waiting for a beautiful sunrise, I was almost ready to return to the car when I suddenly heard a bird calling very close by. The bird stayed low to the ground, barely moving—likely due to the cold—with ice clearly visible around it.
I managed to capture some close shots, and that moment became the happiest highlight of this casual, relaxing trip to Yunnan.
23. Eurasian Coot, 白骨顶, 白骨頂, Fulica atra, オオバン, PANGLIN-HITAM BIASA
update 202601
This bird is very common here in Yunnan—you can easily see it up close around streams, rivers, and lakes. I’m here on a family holiday, enjoying a relaxed time with coffee and loved ones, casually watching the birds nearby. Suddenly, this bird started showing some action. My camera didn’t miss the moment—I captured everything and compiled the shots into this MP4.
We decided to walk along the boardwalk instead of taking a boat ride. While strolling, this bird came surprisingly close to us. I quickly opened my bag, grabbed the Canon RF100–500, and managed to capture this cute little bird.
Surprised that I haven’t shared this beautiful yet very common bird before. I’ve photographed it in many places—Malaysia (Kuala Gula, Kota Kinabalu), South Africa, Thailand, Kenya, and China.
This time was special, as it was the closest encounter so far. The bird was feeding right outside our hotel and wasn’t bothered at all, even when we got quite close.
This bird was surprisingly tame at Potatso National Park. It even hopped along the boardwalk like a little tour guide leading us on our walk. Many of them were feeding in the trees too, and honestly, I much prefer this pose compared to the ones “walking” on the boardwalk.
The weather today is exceptional. The deep blue of the sky is reflecting perfectly on the lake, creating a beautiful color contrast with this immature Brown-headed Gull. However, it is disappointing to see so many people feeding the birds various kinds of human food. While people likely have good intentions, but feeding with wrong food can be affect the bird health
this is a special bird for Sulawesi as it is only for South-Sulawesi (we got this from Makassar). the rest of the area having “Blue-headed” instead of Black-headed
update 202310
– a special target at South Sulawesi, it is not as easy as the Tangkoko version of Green-backed. Look different on head , darker
– an endemic for the Sulawesi that found near the mangrove. someone say this is the ugliest bird from Sulawesi… but not for me .. it is handsome for sure
Scaly-breasted Kingfisher, 鱗胸翡翠, Actenoides princeps
just another endemic of 5 Kingfishers
a male bird. slightly shy compare to female .. cant get close to the bird
female. very tame captured think ~10m away
6. Sacred Kingfisher, 白眉翡翠, 白眉翡翠, Todiramphus sanctus, ヒジリショウビン, Cekakak Australia
– winter Migrant (South) before heading home
– look very similar to Collared Kingfisher with more white overall
– 與白領翡翠像。
Got this extra bonus while we at Mangrove Boat ride for the Great Billed Kingfisher
7. Ruddy Kingfisher, 赤翡翠, Halcyon coromanda, アカショウビン, Cekakak Merah
– another common resident, widespread across Asia
– 亞洲蠻普通的翡翠。赤色，帶紫。
Got this extra bonus while we at Mangrove Boat ride for the Great Billed Kingfisher
8. Sulawesi Pitta,苏拉威西八色鸫, 蘇拉威西八色鶇, Erythropitta celebensis, スラウェシヤイロチョウ
– previously under Red-bellied Pitta and split
– one of the lovely endemic
– 紅胸八色鶇分出來的
– 蘇拉威西特有種。
update 202311
– a bird that we shoot nearby feeding station for this bird, but we didn’t feed the bird… so do we consider take photo of feeding bird ? Yes or No ?
– 我们在喂食点附近见到，拍到。可是这属于拍喂食点的鸟？ 有对有不对？
201909, Tomohon, Sulawesi, Indonesia
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update 202012
– small and red-bellied pitta
– a split from Red-bellied pitta, as the name stated. An endemic of Sulawesi.
update 202105
201911, Makassar, Sulawesi, Indonesia
update 202012
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missed this at Tangkoko, thought going to miss this .. somehow got it just ~1 hour arrived Tomohon and 15 min after got the Scaly-breasted Kingfisher
9. Knobbed Hornbill, 苏拉皱盔犀鸟, 蘇拉皺盔犀鳥, Rhyticeros cassidix, アカコブサイチョウ, Julang Sulawesi
– another endemic for Sulawesi. very beautiful Hornbill
– 非常漂亮的特有種犀鳥。
update 202511
This was one of our main targets here, and we were lucky to have three individuals giving us great views and photo opportunities.
Personally, I think this is one of the most stunning hornbill species I’ve ever seen.
这是我们此行的目标之一，很高兴我们遇到了三只，都给了我们绝佳的观赏和拍摄机会。
对我来说，这是最美丽的犀鸟种类之一。
202511, Tangkoko, Sulawesi, Indonesia
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update 2020 May 5
Knobbed Hornbill, 蘇拉皺盔犀鳥, Rhyticeros cassidix, アカコブサイチョウ, Julang Sulawesi
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it is nesting season , so almost all will got the same tree, same angle 😀
so lucky saw ~6 birds flying across ..
10. Sulawesi Scops-Owl, 苏拉威西角鸮, 蘇拉威西角鴞, Otus manadensis manadensis, セレベスコノハズク, Celepuk Sulawesi
– common Sulawesi endemic
– 蠻普通的蘇拉威西特有種
update 202511
Incredible to see that this bird still remembers me since my last visit in June—it’s just as tame and approachable as before. It perched around 6 meters above ground and stayed for 10–15 minutes, giving us a lovely session.
– it is almost not possible to miss this bird either day time or night time. me and my buddy+guests like owl and and woodpecker for start .. and this is very first owl we got and before we meet our “torch holder” (guide found us in the dark in the forest)
– many raptors endemic of Sulawesi, this is a small raptor
– overall rufous-light brown with a black-white tail (whit spot)
– 蘇拉威西很多猛禽特有種。小猛禽，棕色與黑白尾。
update 202309
– ours’ boring morning which cannot find the thrush and heard this bird and slowly we trying to locate this lovely bird .. small and beautiful
– 很闷的一个早上。没什么鸟，可是当我们走远时听到这鸟叫。没很久，就找到这么美丽的猛禽
202304, Tangkoko, Sulawesi, Indonesia
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15. White-faced Cuckoo-Dove, 白脸蕉鸠, 白臉蕉鳩, Turacoena manadensis, カオジロクロバト, Merpati-hitam sulawesi
– a common endemic Sulawesi but as other cuckoo-doves very shy
– medium size, white-face, green
– 蠻普通蘇拉威西特有種，可是很害羞。不容易接近。
– 白臉，大部分綠
16. Minahassa Masked-Owl,米纳仓鸮, 米納倉鴞, Tyto inexspectata, ミナハサメンフクロウ, Serak Minahasa
– a rare Barn-owl endemic and the name derived from Minahassa Peninsula described as a breeding bird
– 非常稀有的蘇拉威西特有種。
update 202310
– a special owl, seem everyone wanted to have a look at Sulawesi (included the local) as believe lucky ? but it is always challenge to looking for one.
– 蛮特别的鸮，几乎每个观鸟的到这都想看到。（本土人也很希望看到，代表幸运）
201908, Tangkoko, Sulawesi, Indonesia
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17. Sulawesi Woodpecker, 苏拉威西啄木, 蘇拉威西啄木, Yungipicus temminckii, セレベスコゲラ, Caladi Sulawesi
– very small endemic woodpecker
– 很小的啄木。蘇拉威西特有種。
update 202310
– another lucky bird my fellow buddy believe. He always think, after we got any woodpecker sign. The luck will be good .. so we normally look for woodpecker before look for ours target
Sulawesi Woodpecker, 坦氏啄木鳥, Yungipicus temminckii,セレベスコゲラ, Caladi Sulawesi
18. Yellow-billed Malkoha, 苏拉黄嘴地鹃, 蘇拉黃嘴地鵑, Rhamphococcyx calyorhynchus, セレベスバンケンモドキ, Kadalan Sulawesi
– a very active and big Sulawesi endemic
– bill upper yellow down red
– rufous upper and bottom dark black-blue
– 蘇拉威西特有種
– 嘴 – 黃-紅。
– 與其他地鵑一樣，活躍。
update 202501
This large and beautiful bird is a common endemic of Sulawesi, but it’s always a pleasure to photograph. I was very fortunate to capture it in flight!
Still figuring out where to go for a few days in April 2025—anyone up for a quick Sulawesi trip?
这种体型大而美丽的鸟是苏拉威西的常见特有种，但拍摄它依然是一种享受。我很幸运能捕捉到它的飞行瞬间！
2025年4月还有几天行程待定，有人想来一趟苏拉威西短途旅行吗？
202304, Tangkoko, Sulawesi, Indonesia
update 202304
– a pre-tour day, arrive Tangkoko a day earlier. Decided to walk with guests in the evening. never saw so many of them.. total ~10 of them feeding on same tree.
take opportunity to trying BIF shot. not bad overall.
19. Golden-mantled Racquet-tail, 金衣盘尾鹦鹉, 金衣盤尾鸚鵡, Prioniturus platurus, ウチワインコ, Kring-kring bukit
– one of the very special Sulawesi endemic
– this parrot with racket-tailed
– this is a female bird
非常特別鸚鵡，這隻有盤尾。蘇拉威西特有種。
這是母鳥。
update 202102
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20. Isabelline Bush-hen, 苏拉苦恶鸟, 蘇拉苦惡鳥, Amaurornis isabellina, チャバラバンクイナ, Kareo Sulawesi
– a shy Sulawesi endemic
– making a very noisy call just like other Rallidae (crake-hen)
– 很害羞的蘇拉威西特有種
– 與其他秧雞一樣都很吵。
#
21. Superb Fruit-Dove, 华丽果鸠, 壯麗果鳩, Ptilinopus superbus, クロオビヒメアオバト, Walik Raja
– one of the most beautiful bird, it can be found in Sulawesi Sub-montane area
– maybe been poach over the years, most of the time high up
– 算是我看或最漂亮的鳥。
– 通常都站高，害羞。
update 202505
Our 10-day birding trip to North Sulawesi and Halmahera ended on a high note with this incredible bird. It took us nearly the whole morning to find it, but in the end, it rewarded us with a great view.
– a Sulawesi endemic
– small size owl just like other Boobook
– 蘇拉威西特有種
– 與其他鷹鴞一樣，都蠻小的。
update 202511
This species has always been a favorite and rarely disappoints when it comes to good views. This time, four individuals came close, and two were even feeding together—such a cute moment! Big thanks to the guests for trusting the wait.
update202310
– as usual, even special target tour. we still spend some time for my lovely owls. Arrive here, not very long. There are 4birds calling and 2 of them perch near for us to take pictures.
– 如常，目标鸟团。我们一样晚上找找我喜爱的猫头鹰。到达折后，没等很久。4只鸟在叫，2只还让我们拍好好。
202310, Tomohon, Sulawesi, Indonesia
update 202304
– 2023 April Sulawesi-Halmahera Bird watch trip end. Today finally got to sleep until 6am and wake up for proper breakfast. Tomorrow another new challenge.
– a special boobook, with special call.
– this bird is first ever bird we saw so tame, it stand there for such a long time for us to have good view.
– small endemic owl captured from Tangkoko, Sulawesi, Indonesia
#
23. Great-billed Heron, 大嘴鹭, 大嘴鷺, Ardea sumatrana, スマトラサギ, Cangak Laut
- lucky to have these 2 birds displaying and managed to have a good session with them
- a not so common heron
非常幸運，拍到它們在配偶行為。
update 202102
- while w on the way to Great-billed Kingfisher. Saw these 2 birds displaying and stop to capture the good moment.
#
#
24. Purple-winged Roller, 藍翅佛法僧, 紫翅佛法僧, Coracias temminckii, セレベスブッポウソウ, Tiong-lampu sulawesi
– a very beautiful bird, just like Malaysia Indochinese Roller but this with less vibrant colors and a “purple” wing-tail. Sulawesi endemic.
– 非常漂亮的佛法僧，非常害羞。蘇拉威西特有種。
update 202505
This species is always one of my main photography targets whenever I’m at Tangkoko. It’s a darker-colored roller, typically found near the forest edge, with striking overall purple plumage.
– overall rufous front, brown back. Yelloweye, white-browed
– 蘇拉威西特有種的貓頭鷹。
– 棕色，前部淺棕色。
update 202511
We spent over 20 days in Sulawesi last month, and overall did quite well with owls. Among them was this small Sulawesi endemic owl—once considered common, but now increasingly harder to photograph.
Thankfully, we had a few great views and good opportunities to capture this shy species. A real treat for the tour!
– it is a season where most of them not roosting at common area. We stay until dusk (~5pm) and managed to have good view of a pair of them .. just wake up with stretch wing
– as other’s flowerpecker, good to find near some flowering tree
– 蘇拉威西特有種
update 202310
– our simple no target day at Tomohon, come across this best spot for all the small birds .. good photography spot … so close and good lighting and background
– a very active and shy bird
– reddish eye-ring
– first saw at Sabah, also same very active and shy
非常活躍與害羞的鳥。與在沙巴見得都一樣。
update 202511
It’s strange how this species, once commonly heard and briefly seen in Tangkoko, has become harder to encounter in recent visits. But this time, luck was on our side—it was feeding just beside the trail and gave us a rare opportunity for some decent photos.
– white eye-ring, a black forehead. White chest-bellied
– 苏拉威西特有种。
– 白眼圈，前头部黑。白胸-腹
update 202105
201909, North Sulawesi, Indonesia
#
34. Sulawesi Masked-Owl, 苏拉仓鸮, 蘇拉威西蒼鴞, Tyto rosenbergii, Serak Sulawesi, セレベスメンフクロウ
A very large barn-owl with a gray facial disk, gray crown, and rufous upperparts and wings with scattered dark markings. Prefers open country, like agricultural land, plantations, and forest edge, from lowlands to mountains. Limited to Sulawesi. Distinguished from smaller Minahassa Masked-Owl by gray face, gray forecrown, more extensive dark markings across wings and upperparts, and preference for open country.[Ebird]
While we were trying to get better shots of the boobook, this owl started calling right at dusk. It remained a bit shy and didn’t perch too close, but I did my best with the Canon R5 Mark II + RF 400mm + 1.4x extender to capture a decent shot.
当我们正努力拍摄鹰鸮时，这只猫头鹰在黄昏时分开始鸣叫。虽然它有些害羞，没有停在太近的位置，但我依然尽力用 Canon R5 Mark II + RF 400mm + 1.4x 增距镜拍下了它的身影。
202511, Tangkoko, Sulawesi, Indonesia
#####
#####
update 202410
– a Sulawesi endemic with very Barn Owl look alike and call alike … white overall compare to Minahasa Masked Owl more “light rufous” and slight look different
– a owl that we tried many times, many location.. but after few tried what a surprise to see it in one dusk but missed the picture opportunity. But went for 2nd night and got it flying on the sky .. and lucky to have CANON focus monster R3 with RF400mm F2.8 to have this ..
– almost time to finish off Malaysia tours, and time for lovely places again. I am going Sulawesi and Halmahera again Oct. Anyone interest on 2025 ? 2024 full 😀
– hopefully see this owl again, lovely and wait for me.
– last night of birding, after Speckled Boobook, immediate got this rare endemic and managed to capture few flying (not really enough shutter speed for sharp picture) . It flying high up with torch the light still not enough for any picture opportunity. Thanks CANON R3 it lock focus in such dark environment and track it down.
35. Black Sunbird, 黑花蜜鸟, 黑花蜜鳥, Leptocoma aspasia, クロタイヨウチョウ, Burung-madu hitam
A small songbird with a long downcurved bill. Male is blackish with iridescent areas: crown glossed greenish or blue, and shoulders, rump, and tail glossed with blue. Throat iridescent reddish-purple in most of range, but blueish in the north Moluccas and Kai islands. Female is nondescript, with a grayish head, white throat, olive upperparts, and yellowish underparts over much of range. In the south Moluccas and Aru islands, underparts are grayish. Juvenile resembles female, but yellower on throat. Inhabits forest edge, open forest, gardens, and scrub in lowlands and hills. Male can be separated from dark-bellied forms of male Olive-backed Sunbird by glossy, iridescent crown and black back. Females differ from Olive-backed Sunbird by absence of eyebrow, absence of white tail tip, white throat, grayish head, and duller yellow underparts. Females lack eye-ring, unlike larger female Brown-throated Sunbird, and are less uniform underneath than female Elegant Sunbird. [EBird]
蛮普通的花蜜鸟，在苏拉威西等附近岛屿。光线不好时，几乎都是黑的。可是在光线好时，它真的很美。
update 202511
One of the most stunning birds in my opinion—and definitely not just “black”!
We missed it at the usual location where it only perched far away. But today, while we were escaping the afternoon heat in a shaded area, this beauty flew in and stayed for a long time right in front of us.
– a bird with good lighting, it become so colorful instead of “black”
– 在光线好的时候，这鸟不是黑的！
202304, Tomohon, Sulawesi, Indonesia
####
update 202304
– last evening birding, we enjoy the cold weather. surprise so many small birds come to same area in close range. It look like we are birds photography instead of watching.
– we enjoy so much all the small bird such a good view and pictures
– the good evening light make the “black” bird so beautiful.
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.
– 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.
A distinctive large, spectacularly-marked pigeon. Green with a conspicuous pale gray head, a red eye-ring around a beady yellow eye, a dark neck and chest, a bold white belly, a chestnut base to the undertail, and a broad white band in the otherwise dark tail. Shows subtle bronze tones in some parts of the plumage, such as the nape. Singles, pairs, and small groups inhabit the upper levels of forests and forest edges, mostly in the hills and mountains, less often lower down. Gives a very deep, two-noted call, descending on the second note: “woop-mooo.” Also gives single “woop” notes. [Ebird]
– a very surprise to have eye level of Sulawesi Myna, Sulawesi Hawk Eagle follow by this always hidden bird. and it stay so long for us to have front, side, back view.
– 非常幸运，低角度见了苏拉王椋鸟, 苏拉鹰雕.这害羞的鸠也让我们看了很久。
202304, Tangkoko, Sulawesi, Indonesia.
38. Sulawesi Myna, 苏拉王椋鸟, 蘇拉威西王椋鳥, Basilornis celebensis, セレベスオオサマムクドリ
A glossy-black starling with a rounded crest and prominent pale markings on cheeks and breast sides. Juvenile dark brown with a pale underside. Inhabits canopy of forest, forest edge, and nearby degraded areas within lowlands and foothills, typically in pairs or small groups. Distinguished from Short-tailed and Asian Glossy Starlings by large-headed appearance (due to crest) and conspicuous pale patches in plumage. Calls include a clear, metallic, piercing “tzew” and “tzip” as well as “zowee” notes; also gives quiet buzzy warbles. [EBird]
– 几乎全黑.脸颊和胸前有白。蛮可爱的鸟。可是通常都站高高的。
这次很幸运的站了很低让我们拍。
update 202310
202304, Tangkoko, Sulawesi, Indonesia
update 202305
– always seen bird but always high up without any reasonable view or picture. finally this bird decided to stand low for us.
An unmistakable long-tailed, black-and-white myna. Black except for broad white breast band and collar. South Sulawesi form has a pale-tipped bill; in north, bill is entirely dark. Juveniles less glossy and shorter-tailed than adults. Found in pairs or small groups in canopy of forest and forest edge in lowlands and foothills. Often perches out on prominent dead branches. Restricted to Sulawesi, satellite islands, and Togian Islands. Gives a variety of odd calls, including high-pitched piercing “keer,” soft low-pitched “kyop,” and other whistles and metallic notes. (ebird)
update 202511
Another productive morning clearing one more target on our final 2025 Sulawesi Bird Photography Tour. As we arrived at the location, this bird was already perched out in the open, offering great views and photo opportunities.
Never before has this bird stayed out in the open for us this long—easily 10 to 20 minutes! After such an extended view, everyone got ready for a flight shot… and yes, it finally took off with a perfect pose.
A tiny, short-tailed songbird. Unmistakable male is dark with a red cap, breast spot, and rump. Underparts white, with a dark vertical line on the belly and white tufts on sides of breast. Female is gray, with red confined to rump; this color patterning is diagnostic. Juvenile resembles female, but lacks the red rump. Singles or pairs inhabit the upper reaches of hill and montane forest and forest edges. Restricted to Sulawesi. Gives thin, high-pitched “tzeet” and “kwit” call notes. Song starts with “tzeet-tzeet” phrases, then descends into a rapid warble.
[ebird]
update 202307
– a lovely and beautiful bird to be seen, previously saw it high up and finally have it low and beautiful view
– anyone want join me Oct 2023 for Photography trip to Sulawesi ?
– a special almost represent Sulawesi as almost any where you can see symbol
A massive black-and-white megapode with a rose-pink breast and a diagnostic prominent knob on the nape. Found in lowland and hill forest, in areas near beaches or areas with volcanic sands in which they lay their eggs. Immatures show a blacker head with a white throat and a tufted crest. Occurs in pairs that forage on the ground and roost in trees by night. Often best seen at known egg-laying sites, either during laying sessions, or roosting in trees nearby. Generally silent, but occasionally gives a loud, bubbling “waow.” [Ebird]
update 202310
– another main target for a short Photography tour, not really a difficult bird to be seen but it stay far from the hide and very alert with sounds. But there are few individual come to the ranger area which gave some close pictures.
A spectacular chestnut-backed thrush with striking white facial patches, black-and-white wings, and bold pied markings below. Juvenile shows buff streaks on crown and back and buff throat. Terrestrial, feeding on the forest floor singly or in pairs within the lowlands and low hills. Unmistakable within its limited range on islands of Sulawesi and Kabaena. Mournful song is a phrase of several high-pitched whistled notes, “deee-der-doo” or “deee-der.” Calls include “chak” notes and a high-pitched “peep” call. [Ebird]
update 202511
Compared to all my past visits, this bird has been surprisingly easy to photograph during the last two trips to Tangkoko—both within just two weeks! Still took some effort to get a clean shot, but it was definitely worth it. Such a lovely and stunning Sulawesi endemic!
46. Bay Coucal, 苏拉鸦鹃, 蘇拉鴉鵑, Centropus celebensis, セレベスバンケン, Bubut Sulawesi
A reddish-brown cuckoo with a long, often shaggy-looking tail. Juvenile shows a pale eye and a paler breast and throat than adults. The species favors vine tangles within forest and forest edge in lowlands and foothills, where it is usually encountered singly or in pairs. The entirely brown body, lacking black, separates this species from Lesser Coucal. Song is a series of “hoot” notes that often encourages other nearby coucals to respond. Alarm call is a harsh, short rasping “burr.” [ebird]
– as other coucal, shy, moving in bushes … very coucal call alike
– 有如其他鸦鹃，害羞，喜欢活动在草丛里。
update 202512
This is a very common but typically shy species in Sulawesi. Fortunately, we had a few great moments where it took flight in open view, allowing us the rare chance to capture some nice bird-in-flight photos of this elusive bird.
– a bird always heard at lowland of Sulawesi, it is not so boring coucal overall but same it spend us sometime to have a good look of this bird
– 在苏拉威西，这特有种。通常都很容易听到。可是要拍到不是太容易。
201909, Tangkoko, Sulawesi, Indonesia
47. Sulawesi Myzomela, 苏拉摄蜜鸟, 蘇拉威西攝蜜鳥, Myzomela chloroptera, セレベスクレナイミツスイ, Myzomela merah-tua sulawesi
update 202602
As Chinese people, we embrace red as the essential color of the festive season; however, photographers also find beauty in a full spectrum of colors.
作为华人，我们在节日期间对红色情有独钟，但摄影师也同样热爱色彩斑斓的世界。
202511, Tomohon, Sulawesi, Indonesia
#####
update 202503
it is one of very common endemic for Sulawesi, you wont miss the active “red” bird always feeding nearby flowers.
I am leaving to Sulawesi soon, hope more visit to the lovely Island in future.
它是苏拉威西岛常见的特有物种，你一定不会错过那只活跃在花丛间觅食的鲜红色鸟儿。
我马上要前往苏拉威西，希望未来能更多次造访这座美丽的岛屿！
202310, North Sulawesi, Indonesia
48. Black-billed Koel, 黑嘴噪鹃, 黑嘴噪鵑, Eudynamys melanorhynchus, スラウェシオニカッコウ, Tuwur Sulawesi
A commonly heard but very shy bird, with a call resembling that of the Malaysian Asian Koel—though its “woo” is slightly shorter.
这是一种常听见却非常害羞的鸟，它的叫声与马来西亚的亚洲噪鹃相似，但“喔”的声音稍微短一些。
update 202505
It was a dull and cloudy day when we first heard the call a few times and caught a glimpse of the bird flying, but no one managed a photo. Fortunately, the bird began circling near us, and while everyone searched for a perch shot, I took the opportunity to capture it in flight.
49. Sulawesi Crow, 苏拉威西乌鸦, 蘇拉威西烏鴉, Corvus celebensis
update 202507
This is a very common crow in Sulawesi, recently split from the Slender-billed Crow. With its new status as a separate species and a Sulawesi endemic, I made an extra effort on this trip to get better photos of it.
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.
51. Sulawesi Hornbill, 白颊犀鸟, 白頰斑嘴犀鳥, Rhabdotorrhinus exarhatus, カオジロサイチョウ, Kangkareng Sulawesi
update 202511
Another key target for Koel, and we got it almost immediately after arriving at the spot. A beautiful and small endemic hornbill. It made some soft calls too—hopefully I can convert the video and share it soon.
Soon heading back to Sulawesi! I’ve visited during different seasons, and this endemic bird has always been one of our key targets—alongside the impressive Knobbed Hornbill, another iconic endemic of Sulawesi.
Simplified Chinese Translation:
即将再次前往苏拉威西！我曾在不同季节造访这里，这种特有鸟类一直是我们重点寻找的目标之一，另一个就是体型更大的苏拉威西特有种——苏拉皱盔犀鸟。
202504, Tangkoko, Sulawesi, Indonesia
51. Purple-bearded Bee-eater, 须蜂虎, 紫鬚蜂虎, Meropogon forsteni, セレベスハチクイ, Cirik-cirik sulawesi
update 202511
It’s always one of our main targets when visiting Central Sulawesi. We’ve been here for two days and managed to see this bird twice, though still from a bit of a distance. We’re hoping to get a closer look soon!
A truly special Sulawesi endemic for us. Two more target species to go in the next day and a half — wish us luck!
This is truly one of the most beautiful mynas! We had seen this species a few times before, but usually perched high up near the canopy, offering only distant views.
This time, we were fortunate — a few individuals came down to feed, giving us a clear and close view, along with great photo opportunities.
这是最美丽的八哥之一！我们之前几次都看到过这种鸟，但总是停在高高的树冠上，只能远远望见。
这次非常幸运，有几只飞下来觅食，距离很近，让我们有清晰的观察和拍照机会，实在太棒了！
202511,
Lore Lindu National Park, Sulawesi, Indonesia
53. Hylocitrea, 林啸鹟, 橙脇嘯鶇, Hylocitrea bonensis, Hylocitrea bonensis, Kancilan Buah
update 202511
Our main target at Lore Lindu turned out to be not as tough as we expected. We managed to see it twice, and both sightings were not high up in the canopy. Unfortunately, the lighting wasn’t ideal, making the photos appear a bit dull—but still a great bird to observe!
202511,
Lore Lindu National Park, Sulawesi, Indonesia
54. Banda Sea Pitta, 斑达八色鸫, 斑達八色鶇, Pitta vigorsii, バンダカイノドグロヤイロチョウ
update 202511
This Indonesia bird photography trip was a last-minute decision, but it turned out to be quite a successful one. One of our target birds showed up early, and I managed to capture this shot using Canon R1 at ISO16000—surprisingly good results despite the low light!
This has to be one of the cutest scops-owls I’ve ever encountered—endemic to the Banggai Islands. Its curious nature, constantly tilting its head while watching us, made the encounter even more delightful. Always a joy to see this charming little owl again!
Another endemic owl from Lore Lindu on our current Indonesia birding trip. This tiny species prefers to perch high and call frequently—thankfully, not too challenging to locate with a bit of patience.
202511,
Lore Lindu National Park, Sulawesi, Indonesia
57. Sulawesi Masked-Owl, 苏拉仓鸮, 蘇拉威西蒼鴞, Tyto rosenbergii, Serak Sulawesi, セレベスメンフクロウ
update 202511
Not a lifer, but definitely a pleasant surprise! We were searching for another target when this lovely owl showed up. It stayed around for a while, giving us a great chance to enjoy and photograph it—always a joy to see.
What a delightful evening—two stunning and tiny fruit-doves perched low and nearby, giving us fantastic photo opportunities. We even attempted a few bird-in-flight shots. Though not endemic, these birds truly charmed everyone, and we ended up spending about 1.5 hours enjoying their presence.
This special moment, Photographers using nearly all camera brands were there to capture the moment, but not everyone managed to get that perfect shot.
What a wonderful evening—two beautiful and tiny fruit-doves perched low and close, giving us a great opportunity to enjoy and photograph them. We even tried for some bird-in-flight shots. Though not endemic, everyone was delighted to spend around 1.5 hours with these charming birds.
What an amazing start to our time at Tangkoko—almost all our targets were seen and photographed in just one morning! In the evening, we aimed for some special species, and this bird turned out to be very active, giving us great chances to capture some bird-in-flight shots. A lucky moment once again, made even better thanks to the superb tracking performance of the Canon R5 Mark II.
：
我们在Tangkoko有个非常棒的开始——几乎所有目标鸟/动物种在一个早上就拍到了！
傍晚我们尝试寻找一些特别的鸟类，结果这只鸟非常活跃，不断飞来飞去，给了我们拍摄飞行照的好机会。
又是一次幸运的时刻，多亏了Canon R5 Mark II出色的追焦能力！
Tangkoko, Sulawesi, Indonesia
59. Sulawesi Goshawk, 苏拉凤头鹰, 灰頭鳳頭鷹, Lophospiza griseiceps, セレベスオオタカ, Elang-alap kepala-kelabu
update 202511
This is a species that’s not always easy to see at Tangkoko, but on this trip, we were lucky to encounter it twice — including an eye-level view and even a flight shot as it came toward us!
60. Green Imperial-Pigeon (Rufous-naped), 绿皇鸠, 綠皇鳩, Ducula aenea paulina, ミカドバト, Burung Pergam Hijau
update 202511
It’s a very common species here, though it looks quite different from the ones we see in Malaysia. Usually, it stays high and far, but this time we were lucky—it perched at a reasonable distance, at eye level, and under beautiful lighting. A truly lovely bird!
61. Ivory-backed Woodswallow, 白背燕鵙, 白背燕鵙, Artamus monachus, セレベスモリツバメ, Kekep Sulawesi
update 202512
This is one of those birds that often gets overlooked, as it closely resembles the White-breasted Woodswallow. But this time, we were lucky to get a clear, eye-level view. A great Sulawesi endemic!
This bird can be heard calling everywhere, but getting a clear view is always a bit of a challenge. Thankfully, we were lucky—one showed up in the open, allowing us to get some great shots. Moments like this remind me that bird photography is still very rewarding.
63. Sulawesi Serpent-Eagle, 苏拉蛇雕, 蘇拉威西蛇鵰, Spilornis rufipectus, スラウェシチュウヒワシ, Elang-ular sulawesi
update 202512
This is one of those birds that always seems to ignore me—despite being a common Sulawesi endemic, I’ve only seen it 2–3 times over the years. This time, it finally showed up, though only briefly above our heads. Still, a lovely species to enjoy!
One of the most common primates in Tangkoko—often seen moving in groups. They may look intimidating, but they’re generally not aggressive. Still, it’s best to keep a respectful distance just to be safe!
– Eccentric-looking hornbill with a bushy, upright white crest and a whitetail. The Male is white from the head down to the belly; the female is predominantly black, with only a white crest. (ebird)
– not very a common hornbill
update 202409
– a special trip, which photograph any bird on flight. lucky to have this bird for twice over days. and it fly close toward use to have almost no fit into a frame.
– 特别的“飞行” 团。幸运的看到这么一只难的鸟2次，还飞来近距离。
202409, Kinabatangan River, Sabah, Malaysia
#####
update 202407
– new month, new group… another great parent all the way come here with their children for Birding – hobby (the kid just 12 years old) .. a hit and miss morning but in the end of the session, we managed to have this not so common and beautiful Hornbill as last bird of the day.
– so many sighting for last 2 weeks, Taman Negara, Sepilok and Kinabatangan River. Such a lovely bird which normally sight far distance but this time no.. before heavy down rain, it came so close and long for us
– a lovely Hornbill but sometime just tricky to have a sight but this year seem very stable at few location.. but any how still good to see this beautiful Hornbill
– 非常特别的犀鸟。有时非常找到，今年有点不一样。好几个点都很容易见到拍到。
202308, Sabah, Malaysia
####
update 202208
– we have very good encounter of this beautiful hornbill
– 幸运的客人。见了这鸟好几次。到后期，他们都不要看了。
202208, Kinabatangan River, Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia
– very large bird, which 150-170cm (included tail)
– female with white throat
– not easy to see
– another beautiful bird from Malaysia … it is a bird, call weird and beautiful
update 202411
– It was another casual outing, or what we like to call a “poison session,” with friends. The main goal was to test a friend’s ball head, but we were lucky to spot this bird while photographing a few bulbuls. Unfortunately, it didn’t stay long and quickly disappeared from our view.
– a big hornbill that cannot mistaken with long tail. Male with red-throat and longer tail, female with white-throat and shorter tail
– another lucky moment, where this bird flying across while we trying to looking for another hornbill. The CANON R1, Pre-capture make this picture where I know it is in the bush and half-press shutter to enable pre-focus .. when the bird fly out .. press the shutter and Bingo.
– a big hornbill that make everyone excited each time heard or see it ….
– same location last 2 weeks ago had good view and picture of the female and today lucky group have both male and female real close flying across
– 一只蛮大的鸟。每次听到见到都令每个人都非常兴奋。
– 2个星期前，在同一个点看到拍到母鸟。这次，幸运的到来。公+母鸟都飞过还蛮低的。
202410, Kinabatangan River, Sabah
#####
– a really big bird to be seen, the call make everyone excited. A bird that really make me worry… as over the years, never seen young so far.
– looking for this bird for days, finally saw the heard the call and waiting for not long.. finally it flying across us …
– 一只很大的鸟，叫声夜蛮恐怖。可是这一只鸟是我最担心的一只鸟。几乎没见过幼鸟。
202410, Kinabatangan River, Sabah
#####
update 202408
– it is like a every trip bird for 2024, the current Bird families tour. Not that expected to see this but we sight this twice at 2 different location and this one with such a close and good view .. a lucky trip here ..
– within 3 weeks saw this birds 3 times in the different locations are excited. such a big handsome boy ..
– ours’ cruise start afternoon, we saw 6 species of hornbills in 2 hours, Orangutan and many more .. a good start
– 3个星期内在3个不一样地方遇上这么英俊的鸟。真的很兴奋。
– 今天我们下午出去船游时，见到到6种犀鸟。真的幸运的开始
202407, Kinabatangan River, Sabah, Malaysia
#####
– few days ago meet up a pair of this rare, big and beautiful honrbill. Today ours lucky day, where we only have 2 Honrbill target after lunch we got it within 30minutes with very good view .. lucky lucky
202407, Bukit Tinggi, Pahang, Malaysia202407, Bukit Tinggi, Pahang, Malaysia
#####
– another amazing encounter for a boring day, it was raining in the morning so we missed ours birding morning… this is on the way to hotel and managed to have this pair bird flying across ours head.
– another bird that always see it far, this is far far away and lucky because of far .. accident captured the female also in a frame (actually crop 50% after 800mm focal length)
– lovely sunset, heard the bird call loud not long we managed to saw it stand far up ..
– 夕阳来袭时，突然听到这鸟叫。很快的就看到他们站高高。
– 很多朋友都希望看到这鸟，可是还是可遇不可求。通常还是站远远，这一幕大概1-2公里？
202402, Pahang, Malaysia
####
update 202403
– it is another great trip, we saw this bird 2 times from Fraser Hill and Danum Valley. While we having ours afternoon walk, this bird just flew in and after we managed to have some good view of the male (didn’t found where the female perch) … the male decide to leave than we saw the female 😀
– another fun tour for 2 just enjoy nature and birding by no target and enjoy to see almost every birds. Lucky people, we saw this while driving back after have ours target. I saw a big black bird far up the tree and make a stop, just immediate I shout … Helmeted …. Helmeted … and 2 smiling face even we try to have a look at the male but seem he is shy
– a bird always love to heard and see, especially close view and what about 1 pair together !
– seem this pair like this tree !!! twice in same year ..
– 这鸟是百看不厌。可是希望我们下一代好友机会看。近距离+一对。怎么样？
– 看来这鸟喜欢这树。一年遇上2次。
202301, Bukit Tinggi, Pahang, Malaysia
####
update 202309
– it was another amazing trip to Danum, ours “toilet stop” got this lovely girl flying toward us.
– 我们这次到丹浓谷，很不错。第一天的进去时的“小便时刻”尽然听到见到这”美女”迎面飞过来
202308, Danum Valley, Sabah, Malaysia
update 202305
– a place normally just heard and not easy to meet this bird but we saw it twice in 1 day. and this is close and stay long for us has good view.
– 这里时常都听到这鸟叫，就是看不到。可是这团客人超好运，一天2次
202305, Sabah, Malaysia
update 202304
– never get bore to see this bird again and again. even from far distance it is still lovely and beautiful bird.
– 从不厌倦重复看这鸟。从远到近还是这么好看。
202302, Pahang, Malaysia
update 202303
– a beautiful “girl” come close to look at us
– 这美女飞过来看看我们。
202302, Pahang, Malaysia
###
– 6 encounters over 2 months various locations, look like they are active. and this beautiful girl flying above us. make a raining day end with some smile.
– 非常幸运2个月内见了6 次。开来非常活跃。这美女在头上飞过，雨就来了。还好每个人脸上都充满笑。
202302, Pahang, Malaysia
update 202302
– never get bored of this handsome looking bird. the moment it looking back to us, make our day.
– 每次见着鸟都不会闷。尤其在他回头看我们时，就是最好的一刻了。
202302, Pahang, Malaysia
update 202301
– a lucky moment when it flying toward us. and with the new camera AI focus and tracking. it is so easy .
– 幸运的一刻。这么大的鸟冲向我们飞来。新的相机对焦，追焦功能。很容易拍下。
202302, Pahang, Malaysia
###
– very lucky guests, managed to have this bird so close for good photo session
– 非常幸运的客人。尽然，这么近距离的拍到这么漂亮的鸟。
202302, Pahang, Malaysia202302, Pahang, Malaysia
update 202208
– working on a sold video, going through some old folder. one of the best & worst encounter of this Honrbill. Good time mean we spend good time with this huge bird close, bad ……..
– 在处理卖了的婆罗洲视频，看回久照片，见到这组照片。忍不住还是来张这么美的照明。
202008, Fraser Hill, Selangor, Malaysia
update 202205
– one of the most wanted bird to be seen bird in wild, lucky to see it both Peninsular Malaysia and Borneo within a week
– 非常大的犀鸟。通常都是鸟人要看的鸟。幸运的在1个星期里，马来西亚半岛，婆罗洲都看到。
202205, Selangor, Malaysia
#
– Kinabatangan River still one of my favorite where we had 7 out of 8 hornbills of Borneo photograph in just 2 evening
– this pair of big and critical endanger calling and clying above us while we waiting for our’s elephant
– 沙巴京河，还是我最喜欢鸟点之一。2个下午，拍到7种犀鸟（婆罗洲有8种）
– 这大家伙，尽然在我们等大象时在我们头上一直叫飞过。
202205, Kinabatangan River, Sabah, Malaysia
update 202204
– a lucky morning, this bird making call attract our attention
– 幸运的早上，我与客人们都被这叫声吸引
update 202106
– last day before our lockdown MCO3.0 – this male making calls nonstop and flying around.
– 封城前一天。這公鳥，在我們拍啄花鳥時一直叫與飛。
update 202105
– I still remember that morning where I and my buddy went for a casual birding. found this bird flying that area. giving us chance to have some good picture opportunities.
– common, widespread, and beautiful hornbill of Malaysia
– big size of hornbill, with dog alike call “roh” “roh”
– difficult to miss, red-yellow horn normally moving in pair
– KRAU, Bukit Tinggi, Genting Highlands, Taiping, Kuala Tahan, Merapoh, Kinabatangan river, Danum Valley, RDC – Sandakan etc
update 202602
After hitting guest 6,500th species milestone, we decided to keep the momentum going in search of more lifers—aiming to get as close as possible to the 7,000 mark. Upon arriving at the tree top tower, I was incredibly lucky to spot two
202602, Taman Negara Sungai Relau, Pahang, Malaysia
#####
update 202409
– every year, I having some special request .. this time a full 10 days for only flying Tropical birds … especially big one or may be main targets all Hornbills of Borneo. We are lucky with this beautiful Rhinoceros Hornbill.
– a waiting dusk for Nightjar and Owl, all of sudden this bird just flying across low. Even with the RF100-500 + 1.4x tc with such a small aperture (F10).. I still quickly got the bird focus and captured it flying into jungle
– a very common and beautiful hornbill of Malaysia
– it is fun to have 800mm zoom ? I used this new CANON RF200-800mm for months and again the 800mm is really useful sometime while this bird just ~10m from us and I use 800mm zoom to get almost same view like this
– arrived , park our car … this bird stand open with beautiful weather …
– 刚停车，这鸟站的美美的。漂亮的天空。
202303, Taiping, Perak, Malaysia
update 202302
– early morning when we park our’s car getting ready for birding. This bird flying toward us and give us opportunity to have few BIF pictures
– 一大早上，我们刚停下车来。这鸟尽然飞了过来。
202302, Taiping, Perak, Malaysia
update 202211
– what a lucky day to have this bird flying infront of us dusk time
– 非常幸运，这么漂亮的鸟在夕阳时在我们面前飞过。
update 202208
– one of the most common and beautiful hornbill of Borneo, saw this bird more than 3 times before decided to have some photos of this beauty.
– handsome male flying too close actually …
– with current new CANON mirrorless camera to capture bird in flight over blue sky is very easy ….
– 马来西亚/婆罗洲最普通与漂亮犀鸟之一，在这团里见了最少3次才有机会让客人拍照（终于较低与近）
– 佳能R7拍这种飞版（蓝天版）几乎难度是0
Kinabatangan River, Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia
update 202207
– a lucky group today to have 3 different hornbill same day. But the Helmeted Hornbill is 10-20km away and how we spot it ! so dot captured…and think everyone have BIF version
– 非常幸运的一天，3种犀鸟。可是盔犀鸟站在10-20公里以外。
– 这鸟站蛮久的，大家都拍到飞的。
202207, BuKit Tinggi, Pahang, Malaysia
update 202201
– just another this lovely hornbill flying close to us
– 飞的很近。低
202201, Taiping, Perak, Malaysia
– this lovely Hornbill flying low and close allow us and all of sudden poo infront of us
– 马来西亚蛮美的犀鸟，尽然飞的这么低与近。可是忽然大便。幸好没在我们头上
202201, Taiping, Perak, Malaysia
update 202105
– had been seeing this lovely hornbill 2 locations for the last 7 days and this time surprise easy to spot it and flying left-right for us to capture some good picture
– a male with red-eye and a female with white eye
– lucky to have this setup while walking and I have an almost 100% success rate for this bird flying from left to right in 2-3s
– a big bird … that ignore human when looking for food
update 2014 Nov 11
rhinoceros hornbill , 马来犀鸟 [Buceros rhinoceros]
4. Great Hornbill, 双角犀鸟, 雙角犀鳥, Buceros bicornis, オオサイチョウ, ENGGANG PAPAN
– large bird, a large bill many Yellow (neck, horn, bill etc)
– this bird does not exist in Borneo
update 202403
– while we looking for another “hornbill” this bird suddenly make a flying across .. lovely hornbill
– 当我们在找另一只犀鸟时，这鸟突然叫了+飞过。
202403, Bukit Tinggi, Pahang, Malaysia
#####
update 202101
- one out of 10 hornbills of Malaysia which missing at Borneo
- Overall Yellow-Black - eye iris make difference for male and female
- male with the reddish eye, female with white
馬來西亞，10種其一的犀鳥。 眼睛的顏色分別公母之分。
#
– small hornbill, move in group and making a lot of noise
– mostly black and minor blue color …
update 202412
It’s time to sort through some 2024 photos before archiving them. Here’s another common hornbill of Malaysia, typically seen moving in groups. I’m really impressed with the R3—it rarely lets me down when capturing what I want. Even this shot, taken in a dark area with a background change, turned out great!
was lucky to see this pair of hornbill get close and stay long enough for us to capture …. same trip also got black & red broadbill … and un-Id minivet[from Bukit Rengit, Pahang]
update 2013 Feb 25
Black Hornbill 黑腹犀鳥
7. Oriental Pied-Hornbill, 冠斑犀鸟, 冠斑犀鳥, Anthracoceros albirostris, キタカササギサイチョウ, KELINGKING BIASA
– most common small hornbill
– moving in a group
update 202302
– a common hornbill, but it still a fun to see this hornbill calling, feeding and flying.
– 马来西亚非常普通的犀鸟。可是可以看到它们飞，吃，叫的样子。还是很可爱的。
202202, Pahang, Malaysia
####
update 202102
another captured using New Fujifilm XF70300
Fujifilm X-T4, Fujifilm XF70300, TC 1.4x: 434.0 mm, ISO500 F.9.0 1/90]
update 20210112
– saw this pair of Hornbill mating but missed the shot as twice facing different direction… and this is the only time right direction but then the male didn’t make it at last minute !!!!
– very impressed with the Fujifilm X-T4 stabilizer, as this is captured handheld
#####
8. Wreathed Hornbill, 花冠皱盔犀鸟, Rhyticeros undulatus, シワコブサイチョウ, ENGGANG GUNUNG BIASA
– moving in group. Male with yellow pouch and female with blue
– very funny call
– very look alike Plain-pouched Hornbill with slight different
update 202507
It’s not the most common bird along the Kinabatangan River, but we still managed to spot it a few times—unlike the Rhinoceros Hornbill, which gave us zero sightings during our two days on the river.
– one of the most lucky group, this bird stay long and flying around for of of the best pictures opportunity.
– for me one of the most beautiful Hornbill of Malaysia
– 算2024最幸运的一组。这么漂亮的鸟站蛮近，久还要飞来飞去。让我们拍够够。
– 这可算我们最漂亮的犀鸟之一。
202405, Kinabatangan River, Sabah, Malaysia
#####
update 202405
– one of the most beautiful Hornbill of Malaysia for me, it is not that common but not really easy to miss at Kinabatangan river.
– lucky group to have this pair feeding so low and long for use capture so many good photo of it.
– 对我而言，这是马来西亚秀美犀鸟之一。不容易见到，可是在沙巴京河很少会错过。
– 这一组摄鸟人，非常幸运。竟然见到他们这么低的吃东西，还要非常久。
202404, Kinabatangan River, Sabah, Malaysia
#####
– 201706
– another beautiful hornbill of Malaysia found near the primary forest
– The male and female have different head and bill patterns. Males have bright yellow feathers on the auriculars, cheeks, throat, neck-sides, and chest, but these areas are black in the female, except for the blue throat.
***https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wrinkled_hornbill
– it is wonderful month for this hornbill, got so many good low angle pictures over last 3 trip there .. amazing and lovely Hornbill.
– 非常神奇，这两个月来。都拍到这鸟非常低，几乎没再这么低。这犀鸟算时最美犀鸟之一吧。
202405, Kinabatangan River, Sabah, Malaysia
#####
– for the last 2 trips to Kinabatangan River, it is so weird that the number Wrinkled Hornbill that I sight more than Rhinoceros Hornbill..
– what a close encounter of this beautiful honrbill, just ~10 feet away ..
– 这么近的看这鸟真的很不一样，真的很美。这次我们只站他的10尺左右。
– 最后2次（1个月内）到京河真的很不一样。尽然遇上皱盔犀鸟比马来犀鸟多。好像很怪。
202405, Kinabatangan River, Sabah, Malaysia
#####
update 202403
– as usual most of the guests arrive here is looking for this not so common Hornbill of Malaysia in other location. But it is pretty common in Kinabatangan River
– 有如其他鸟人，到京河。都想看看这犀鸟，这犀鸟其实在其他点很不容易见到。
202403, Kinabatangan River, Sabah, Malaysia
####
update 202208
– this is one of my favorite hornbill of Borneo/Malaysia. especially seeing it at morning and evening session. Golden light make it look more lovely
– seeing it so many times in the trip but prefer to capture it morning and evening light
– with the CANON R3 and 100500 the flying moment is almost never miss for me even I am shooting on boat or land
– 我最喜欢马来西亚/婆罗洲犀鸟之一。尤其在早上，夕阳时刻。金黄色加上犀鸟本身的颜色真的非常迷人。
– 佳能R3拍犀鸟飞版几乎没可能错过任何一幕。
– 在5天婆罗洲行中，最少见了5-6次可是还是较喜欢在早上，夕阳拍他。
Kinabatangan River, Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia
update 202207
– one of the most beautiful Hornbill, lucky to have early morning warm light with the beautiful male
– 马来西亚最美犀鸟之一，也非常幸运这雄鸟站的蛮近的。
202207, Sabah, Malaysia
update 202102
– Kinabatangan River, Sabah, Malaysia
– female
– male
##############
10. Plain-pouched Hornbill, 淡喉皱盔犀鸟,淡喉皺盔犀鳥, Rhyticeros subruficollis, ムジシワコブサイチョウ, ENGGANG GUNUNG BELANTARA
– It looks almost identical to Wreathed Hornbill except
– lack of grooves on the bill
– small size
– lack of a black patch on the pouch
– the only non-resident hornbill. only travel to North Peninsular Malaysia Jul-Oct
#####
update 202302
– a request to use this special bird and open up the folder many pictures still yet to be filter. take a opportunity to process another one for sharing this special hornbill of Malaysia
– 要求用这照片在某网站。在找会原图时，看到还有蛮多照片没用到。处理多一张分享这很特别的犀鸟。
202209, Belum, Perak, Malaysia
###########
update 202102
Panasonic G9, Panasonic Leica 200mm F2.8, 1.4x
Perak, Malaysia 202009
– another lovely slow-motion of a group of Plain-pouched Hornbill captured using Panasonic G9 high-speed video
###########
2020 Oct
– Just got back from a yearly repeated event, a hornbill expedition … we did a short one this year just 1.5 days on the boat. and we able to record 7 (pictures and videos) and 1 seen only
Plain-pouched Hornbill always our’s main target for the trip, and this is one of the groups we managed to sight and recorded ..
update 2020 Sept
Plain-pouched Hornbill, 淡喉皱盔犀鸟,淡喉皺盔犀鳥, Rhyticeros subruficollis, ムジシワコブサイチョウ, ENGGANG GUNUNG BELANTARA
11. Knobbed Hornbill, 苏拉皱盔犀鸟, 蘇拉皺盔犀鳥, Rhyticeros cassidix, アカコブサイチョウ, Julang Sulawesi
– one of the most beautiful hornbill for me.
– a group of them flying across us. lucky to have flown close.
– male with red crown and female with yellow.
– 算濕我見過的最美的犀鳥之一。
– 蘇拉威西特有種。
– 突然一群體性大的鳥忽然飛過。
update 202511
This was one of our main targets here, and we were lucky to have three individuals giving us great views and photo opportunities.
Personally, I think this is one of the most stunning hornbill species I’ve ever seen.
– some also call this Papuan Hornbill
– look like our Wreathed Hornbill, the male is rufous on the head and the female blue.
– this captured just outside our resort in the morning.
13. Sulawesi Hornbill, 白颊犀鸟, 白頰斑嘴犀鳥, Rhabdotorrhinus exarhatus, カオジロサイチョウ, Kangkareng Sulawesi
update 202511
Another key target for Koel, and we got it almost immediately after arriving at the spot. A beautiful and small endemic hornbill. It made some soft calls too—hopefully I can convert the video and share it soon.
Soon heading back to Sulawesi! I’ve visited during different seasons, and this endemic bird has always been one of our key targets—alongside the impressive Knobbed Hornbill, another iconic endemic of Sulawesi.
Simplified Chinese Translation:
即将再次前往苏拉威西！我曾在不同季节造访这里，这种特有鸟类一直是我们重点寻找的目标之一，另一个就是体型更大的苏拉威西特有种——苏拉皱盔犀鸟。
Dark brown hornbill with a white belly and an orange bill. The white corners of the tail are conspicuous in flight. Males and females are similar, but male has a bigger casque on top of the bill. Found in lush woodland, forest, and forest edge. Often in small flocks. Call is a long series of high, piping notes. Has little overlap in range with similar hornbills, and is unique in having a yellow eye. [Ebird]
update 202501
It was a late lunch, and the “sushi” took nearly two hours to arrive! But luckily, as we walked into the restaurant, I spotted a Hornbill nesting. I managed to get a few flight shots just by sitting at the table while waiting for lunch. Meanwhile, others went straight to the nest, hoping for a better feeding moment. A small but noisy Hornbill!
This is a hornbill quite different from the hornbills we are familiar with. Unlike most species, this one usually feeds on the ground, which is why it is known as the Ground Hornbill. We were very fortunate to have it walk straight toward us, giving us an excellent close view and a great photo session.
