Another shot captured using the CANON R1’s Continuous Pre-record feature, showcasing this tiny, active, and shy Borneo endemic.
使用佳能R1的连续预录功能拍摄的另一张照片，展现了这只小巧、活跃且害羞的婆罗洲特有鸟。
202412, Sabah, Malaysia
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update 202412
The final tour of 2024 began on a high note, featuring eight stunning images of Borneo endemics. Thanks to the new Canon R1’s Continuous Pre-record feature, I seized the opportunity to capture the action at ISO 16000, including remarkable shots of this tiny and lively bird.
– a big montane endemic of Borneo, not rare but not really a easy bird to get close .. beautiful much easier than the Sumatra Treepie very look alike
– 婆罗洲高山特有种，蛮普通。可是也不容易接近。
202409, Gunung Alab, Sabah, Malaysia
3. Dark Hawk-Cuckoo, 婆罗鹰鹃, 婆羅鷹鵑, Hierococcyx bocki, クロジュウイチ, SEWAH-TEKUKUR GUNUNG
update 202410
– a birds that very common heard at both Fraser Hill & KNP .. but it can be very difficult to have good view .. it can be confuse with some Hawk Cuckoo
– when we on the way to Breakfast, sudden saw this bird stand so nice with backlight .. got the bird real close view
It was a quick visit to check on the flowers while meeting a few friends. Within an hour, the bird appeared twice, giving me the perfect chance to capture its flight using the R1 Continuous Pre-record mode. It worked perfectly!
Over the years, by understanding what the bird feeds on, it has gone from being difficult to spot to becoming a fairly common sight today.
5. Sunda Cuckoo, 巽他杜鹃, 巽他杜鵑, Cuculus lepidus, スンダツツドリ, SEWAH GUNUNG MELAYU
update 202506
This spot is now one of the best in Borneo for seeing a wide variety of montane endemics and non-endemics all in one place. While some birds do come for feeding, many are also drawn by natural food sources like moths and insects. This particular bird seems to show up often—we hear it almost every visit and spot it on most trips too.
This striking “black-faced” blue-and-white flycatcher is a fairly common winter visitor here. However, this year, many individuals have been spotted at Gunung Alab, including males, females, and juveniles. It is noticeably distinct from Zappey’s Flycatcher.
It’s not very common to spot this bird here at Gunung Alab, but we heard its call while waiting for another target. Not that long, we saw it perched nearby! Yet another great sighting.
8. Bornean Barbet, 加里曼丹拟鴷, 加里曼丹擬鴷,Megalaima eximia, ノドグロゴシキドリ, TAKUR TUKANG GUNUNG
update 202503
This is one of Borneo’s small endemic birds, often heard but rarely seen or photographed. However, this time, it perched right in front of us, offering an exceptional view.
9. Mountain Barbet, 山拟鴷, 山擬鴷,Megalaima monticola, ヤマゴシキドリ, TAKUR BUKIT BORNEO
update 202509
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This is one of the best spots to photograph this beautiful Borneo endemic—it comes close and low if we stay calm and respectful. We had a great session earlier, but my guest wanted to try again, maybe from a different angle.
When we returned, another group with a tour leader arrived after spotting the bird. Unfortunately, they stood way too close—just 1–2 meters from the fruiting tree where the bird was feeding. Isn’t it basic birding etiquette to give the bird space if we want better views and photos?
Anyway, we were already happy with our previous shots. After the group left, the bird came close again, almost like saying goodbye—what a lovely way to end the tour.
This Borneo endemic is very common and almost impossible to miss in the Crocker Range. Still, we were lucky to have such a close and special encounter with it!
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
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update 202503
It’s a chilly day at 16°C with strong winds. The morning was lovely, though the afternoon turned misty. Fortunately, after the rain and misty period, we were lucky to spot both endemic Barbets up close, including this adorable one.
It’s not a rare Borneo endemic, but it’s always tricky to photograph since it usually feeds high up or blends in so well that it’s hard to spot.
We were lucky this time—after a long wait, a few of them came down low to feed, giving us a great chance to enjoy and capture this special Bornean species.
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.
14. Golden-naped Barbet, 金枕拟鴷, 金枕擬鴷, Psilopogon pulcherrimus, キエリゴシキドリ, TAKUR TOPENG HITAM GUNUNG
update 202509
One of the most common and easiest Borneo endemic barbets to see. This species often comes down to feed and is quite tolerant of people.
We were lucky to get a few great photo opportunities with this beautiful bird.
这是婆罗洲最常见、最容易看到的特有拟啄木鸟之一，通常会飞到低处觅食，也不太怕人。
我们很幸运，有几次不错的拍照机会，记录下这只可爱的鸟。
202509, Gunung Alab, Sabah, Malaysia
15. Gray-chinned Minivet, 灰喉山椒鸟, 灰喉山椒鳥, Pericrocotus solaris, ベニサンショウクイ, Burung Mas Dagu Kelabu, BURUNG-MATAHARI GUNUNG BIASA
update 202509
One of the most common montane birds in Borneo—males shine in bright red, while females glow in yellow. After a long wait for another target species, this male finally stayed close, giving us a great view.
– newly update it may not belong to the Laughingthrush family
– rare and shy montane Borneo endemic
update 202509
One of Borneo’s rare, shy, active, and truly beautiful endemics. We spent two evenings and one morning searching at this spot.
Finally, on the last morning, the bird showed up and stayed for around 30 minutes—but still didn’t come low or stay still for long. Only a few quick stops, but enough for a few precious photos of this lovely bird.
It’s becoming more challenging to get a good look at this bird, but our relaxed birding approach seems to pay off. We’ve come across a few nice pairs over the past 2–3 years, and while this time wasn’t the best, everyone still got to see it. That classic “Where? There!” moment never gets old—still exciting every time!
– one of my best moment of 2029, this bird stay close and one of best view of this bird
– 我的2029最好的一刻，这鸟站这个位置真的最好角度看这鸟。
202407, Trusmadi, Sabah, Malaysia
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– another main target of the short trip, it is close and fast .. all of us saw the bird .. but sad my buddies didn’t got the picture of it feeding on “fruit” (think my first time saw this bird eat fruit) …
– the bird moving fast and inside dark bush, 2 of the Z9 failed to got the bird in focus 🙁 lucky me with new R5markii , if bring mark 1 may be also dont have this best moment of this rare bird
– 与朋友的几天，主要目标之一。这鸟来的蛮近的。可是有入常态，动很快，在暗的地方动。朋友们Z9都没办法对上焦（在这站了好几秒大家都看到）。幸好佳能R5Mark ii 好好表现还是对上了几张。这鸟非常害羞，稀有。非常不容易拍照，还加上第一次看到它吃果子（通常吃昆虫）.
202409, Trusmadi, Sabah, Malaysia
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update 202408
– before archive the folder, make another picture one of best moment of 2024. This bird stand here more than 3 minutes … making call.. looking at us ..such a handsome
– one of my favorite birds of Malaysia, it is not that rare just too active to have good view. But when lucky strike, me and David enjoy few minutes of best moment with this bird .. amazing bird to look at
2. Sunda Owlet, 巽它鸺鹠, 巽它鵂鶹, Taenioptynx sylvaticum, ヒメフクロウ, PUNGGUK-KECIL GELANG SELATAN
update 202407
– a long waiting day, today patient pay off with different prize. Missed the Bulwer’s Pheasant male…. after long wait … before we call it a day, heard this owl far away .. just try ours’ luck after long wait before we decided to walk back to ours’ car I saw this bird flying toward car park. Not long after walk toward car park, after got the Bornean Leaf bird and got this bird stay there for long for us.
3. Mountain Barbet, 山拟鴷, 山擬鴷,Megalaima monticola, ヤマゴシキドリ, TAKUR BUKIT BORNEO
update 202409
– another visit of this lovely forest, good weather…good birds (montane and sub-montane). While we trying to find few of ours target, found this bird busy making some hole .. lovely Borneo endemic
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。
A fairly common resident species in Borneo, but sightings have become less frequent lately. That bright orange crown makes it absolutely unmistakable!
这是一种婆罗洲常见的留鸟，但最近出现得比较少。头顶鲜艳的橙色非常醒目，不会和其他鸟搞混！
202505, Trusmadi, Sabah, Malaysia
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
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!
7. 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
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!
While we looking for a few target species, this bird was one we really hoped to see. Luckily, we heard its call from a distance, and it flew in close enough for us to photograph this beautiful endemic.
9. 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
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.
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!
– 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 success “Rail-Babbler” target tour, after got ours main target. We start do casual birding, got this bird calling in the morning and managed to spent some good time with this bird (even my camera having some issue force me using MF)
– 2nd trip to this special location for special targets. This beautiful, rare bird some how not the main target we here for. But we normally heard and seen them well so never waste we spend some time to have good look of this bird. But for this trip, it is a target so we spend one special early morning for this and not bad for the outcome and some birds come close
– a very active bird and black-rufous overall normally move in pair
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– a boring evening … not really as main target no sight at all. But very lucky to have this bird give us good show for about 5 minutes. active and rare bird
– 很活跃+害羞的鸟。下午到达立刻找目标，可是目标完全没声，没影。还好这一只这么难的的鸟出来让我们看够够。
This was a truly special tour for us, focusing on a very important target species. After two days of only hearing it without any sighting, we finally had an amazing view—right in front of the four of us, and even calling!
Such a memorable family trip—got all three special bird families: Rail-Babbler, Crested Jayshrike, and Bornean Bristlehead, all with photos too!
– within 24 hours, we got this bird again with much better view this time. All have perfect view of the shy bird..it is really fun to see this bird walk slow infront of us.
– a shy bird always difficult to spot and walk almost close to ground only
– another special target birds tour (5th this year for Rail-Babbler), this time with big group.. little bit challenge to get 1st target .. Malaysian Rail-babbler … but today morning, managed to heard it and wait a while before locate it calling. Happen for 2-3 minutes .. everyone see it from limited angle 🙁 but relieve …
– it is a long plan request from “friend”, a bird family need Rail-Babbler… last for him and another Jay-shrike for better view .. and we make this happen within 2 days while we actually plan it for 5 days … day1 arrive afternoon nothing much but still got Finsch’s Bulbul & Scarlet-breasted Flowerpeckeras new birds and with many woodpeckers with good view … follow by lunch and a quite bored afternoon … but still able to have good view of Crested Jayshrike and ~10m close Rail-babbler without any sight …Day2 morning nothing much even with some good view but no Rail-babbler close heard .. raining afternoon after lunch even still rain.. as Bill seem worry we missed the bird just decided walk into forest with raining gear … not far after we walk I heard “to to to” real close and ask every one backward … YES me and Bill saw the bird circling and walk across the trail but Karen & Miki missed … hmmmmmm .. so we decided go to a slight open space to wit for the bird…. not that long the bird came into view and making “balloon” call show for us more than 2 minutes .. smile for everyone …
– a good month to start to have good view of this special bird, total 4 good view of this birds 2024 June. And twice we special come to this special location for 2 special birds family. Both trips got the bird on day1/2, hope it stay for next few visits.
– a birds came close to us and make special “balloon call” style.
– finally finish a long tour, Peninsular Malaysia, Borneo & extension to South P Malaysia. We had this very special target bird twice all of us saw the bird well and long. We had this bird walking across the trail after 2-3 hours search through the forest.
– a mystery bird that can be very shy or sometime just appear in-front of you and walk slowly.
– a very active bird that always making call attract ours attention either Peninsular Malaysia & Borneo lowland.
– lucky moment to have both standing and making call for us to take photo
– 非常活跃+漂亮的鸟。很容易听到这鸟在低海拔森林叫声。
– 这一次，非常幸运。2只站一起唱起歌让我们拍拍。
202406, Panti, Johor, Malaysia
5. Chestnut-rumped Babbler, 红腰穗鹛, 紅腰穗鶥, Stachyris maculata, コシアカモリチメドリ, KEKICAU-KANTAN BESAR BIASA
update 202406
– this place, I always call it “babbler heaven”. as usual while we actually trying to get White-necked Babbler pictures. This bird just came down to see us.
– active, and lovely babbler with very loud call normally heard in lowland forest
– a bird that pretty common but I always trying to look for one last few months after I know it is lifer for my friend. finally this bird appear together with another woodpecker (think also lifer for him) but he choose this so we looking for this brown, white necked small woodpecker.
– our first morning here and no main target sight, but one of the good bird we have … this lovely green pigeon.stay high up but it is really good to see them.
After successfully seeing both main target species in Peninsular Malaysia, we took it easy on our final morning with some casual birding. The forest was quiet most of the time, and we almost decided to wrap up the session—
Then suddenly, a surprise!
One of the woodpeckers we haven’t seen in nearly two years appeared, along with four other woodpecker species—all at close range. From a slow morning to an exciting finish!
After getting our main target—the Malaysian Rail-babbler—we enjoyed a more relaxed birding session. This bird had been calling loudly for a few days, but we were too focused on the Rail-babbler to pay much attention.
Finally, we took the time to look for it—and wow, it really is a gorgeous bird!
The forest has been unusually quiet for the past two days — even common species like bulbuls, flowerpeckers, and sunbirds are nowhere to be seen. Thankfully, this bird was one of the few that came low and close, feeding calmly without being bothered by our presence.
– it is an old picture, another not a good memory to have .. too many pressure to cause the chick fledged too earlier …. it still not really able to fly, fall into the river few times and safe back … can’t do much beside wish them good luck
2. Great Iora, 大绿雀鹎, 大綠雀鵯, Aegithina lafresnayei, オオヒメコノハドリ, KUNYIT-KECIL SAYAP HITAM
update 202404
– still clearing hdd and this moment remind me my best time spent with my buddies .. hope I have time to go out with them more. Very lucky to see the adult keep feeding the young
– 还在清理2022的旧照片。这照片是鱼一帮朋友无忧无虑的看鸟看到，幼鸟在等成鸟来喂。朋友等等我。
202206, Ulu Langat, Selangor, Malaysia
3. Yellow-crowned Barbet, 黄顶拟鴷, 黃頂擬鴷, Psilopogon henricii, キンカブリゴシキドリ, TAKUR TOPENG HITAM BIASA
update 202406
– a common heard but seldom seen Barbet, it is most attractive Barbet but sure a beautiful bird to photograph
– 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.
After getting our target species, we heard a soft call nearby—I was pretty sure it was this bird. After a bit of searching, there it was—just about 10 feet away! Such a lovely woodpecker, and a true gem of Malaysia.
– a very good start of the tour, 2nd bird after Falconet. the beautiful woodpecker make everyone excited to see more woodpecker from Malaysia. #WoodpeckersofMalaysia
– honor to try out the new CANON R5mii, most of us really wish firmware upgrade for R5marki for better AF features. but we know while the markii launch mean the hope will fall on the new R5markii. Yes, the AF improve dramatically, it have AF function like R3, R7, R6markii with add on of new feature too.
– this bird fly quite low and any direction, I track it quite well too
what I like
i. animal detect, eye detection now included for single point, 5 points, any zone and also full area
ii. add on new focus area which disable all animal detect !!! it back to old AF method “point AF” .. very useful for condition for the camera difficult to detect the animal !!!
iii. the animal detect simply awesome, it pick up the animal so fast even at complex environment.. hope I can share more soon
iv. tracking is good too, even it is nothing compare to new R1 .. and may R3 (may be so use to the R3, feel the R3 pick up faster and track more “sticky”)
v. the .5s continuous pre-shoot is a real good feature !!! for wildlife .. I dont have many chance test this but it should be one of the best feature !!! all other brands may also follow this soon 😀
It’s a busy start to the year! We kicked things off with a very long drive due to the holiday traffic, followed by a specialized photography tour with two lovely and incredibly patient guests. One of our main targets for this trip was this beauty—it’s a shame they’re still a bit shy this season, but what a wonderful bird to start off 2026.
Just another moment captured with this beautiful yet shy bird. I’m accustomed to situations where people alter the environment—making it brighter and more open—just for the sake of photos, which can affect the bird’s natural behavior. However, that doesn’t diminish my happiness, especially with my birding buddy back in action after finally deciding to get his 400mm F2.8 following a slowdown in birding. Exciting times ahead, as I have more personal birding trips coming up soon!
– it is a tough day, been assign with a 1.5 days (actually just one day for Rail-babbler as main target). After meet Hermina & Shannon, they really keen to see the Rail-babbler… so we make a early move and have a long coffee stop before we go into forest due to some early morning rain. Immediate arrive the area, after got 1 frogmouth calling, and sight the Banded Woodpecker. I heard the Rail-babbler calling, immediate trying to track it down and we spit the bird less than 10 minutes … ring my buddy and hope he is happy man now ..
– a very common lowland forest, mangrove, sub-montane woodpecker. Overall rufous which difficult to miss this bird.
– it is a special out to test the R1, may be I am already start use the “Pre-capture” long ago .. (those Olympus old time, Panasonic etc) for me to captured this kind of “trap focus” “jumping” picture is very easy … now Canon finally come with proper Pre-capture and improve it with … “continous Pre-capture” ..mean it is almost every half-press is a pre capture .. as long as control well the buffer… I hope I can find a better way to share to all of this about this “Best feature” to have for Wildlife Photography
9. Black-thighed falconet, 黑腿小隼, Microhierax fringillarius,モモグロヒメハヤブサ, RAJAWALI-BELALANG MELAYU
update 202411
– The only species in Peninsular Malaysia which also one of the world’s smallest raptors, often seen perched high, watching for prey.
– While testing the new Canon R1’s Pre-continuous Shooting and AF performance, I captured one of many frames. I’ll share more from the full sequence in the near future.
10. Brown-backed Needletail, 褐背针尾雨燕, 褐喉針尾雨燕, Hirundapus giganteus, オオハリオアマツバメ, LAYANG-LAYANG BESAR BIASA
update 202507
While walking along the forest edge, we spotted a pair of large swifts flying overhead. They stayed quite high, but the lighting was just right to catch a clear view of their backs—what a nice moment!
There were plenty of Green Broadbills in the national park—we heard and saw several during just 1.5 days of birding. This particular pair stood out, as they came in close to us, looking curious and unbothered.
12. Malayan Black Magpie, 白翅鹊, 黑冠噪鵲, Platysmurus leucopterus, クロカケス, BURUNG-KAMBING BARAT
update 202508
This is one of the shy birds found here. Compared to the Bornean version—which lacks the white wing patch and is generally more tolerant of humans—this one tends to keep its distance.
A lucky morning with four birds coming in close—one of them even perched right at eye level for us!
One of the most common woodpeckers in Malaysia! While starting a casual birding session with a few friends, this lovely bird came really close and stayed low—giving everyone a great view. A beautiful little woodpecker!
Sometimes, birding isn’t just about rare birds or perfect photos. A few of us just went out to enjoy the fresh air and see what birds might show up. The whole morning was quiet, but this bird turned out to be the highlight for us.
It didn’t give the best pose, but we still enjoyed a peaceful morning and a delicious lunch!
15. Rufous-winged Philentoma, 棕翅王鵙, 棕翅王鵙, Philentoma pyrhoptera, チャバネアカメヒタキ, REMBAH-BATU KECIL
update 202510
It was another quiet morning, as expected—I had already told the group the forest might be slow this time. Still, we decided to revisit the same spot for the second time this month. Luckily, this bird family showed up and gave us some nice photo opportunities as they moved around.
One of the most sought-after species when visiting the mangroves. While not rare, it’s often challenging to get a clear photo. Thankfully, this beautiful male Mangrove Pitta gave us a great view without much waiting—definitely a highlight!
– another bird that not so easy to be photograph center of Penisular Malaysia. a male that come out stay long for us
– 在蛮多鸟点都是蛮容易拍照的，在西马中部反而就很不容易。这公鸟站了还蛮久
202305, Kuala Selangor, Selangor, Malaysia
2. Greater Flameback, 大金背啄木鸟, 大金背啄木鳥,Chrysocolaptes guttacristatus, オオコガネゲラ,BELATUK-PINANG BESAR BIASA
update 202603
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Today was supposed to be all about finding the Kingfisher, but since it was nowhere to be found, we spent some time with this bird instead. It is always a joy to capture its flight on camera.
Same spot as last year where this bird was actively flying around. Everyone was excited to try for some bird-in-flight shots. For me, it was a great chance to test the Canon R6 Mark III’s AF tracking. So far, it performs well in the field—most of the time it can lock focus even when the bird is flying directly toward us, not just sideways.
和去年一样的地点，这只鸟又在附近飞来飞去，大家都很兴奋尝试抓拍飞行镜头。对我来说，是个很好的机会测试 Canon R6 Mark III 的自动对焦追踪功能。目前在实地表现不错，大多数时候即使鸟是朝着我们飞来而不是水平飞行，相机也能准确追焦。
202512, Kuala Selangor, Selangor, Malaysia
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update 202411
– One of the common woodpeckers found in Malaysia’s mangroves, this species stands out with its pale eyes, distinguishing it from the common Flameback.
– There have been so many photos of this woodpecker lately, and I love how the CANON R1 captured the action, especially the way the woodpecker swings its wings.
– One of the common woodpeckers found in Malaysia’s mangroves, this species stands out with its pale eyes, distinguishing it from the common Flameback.
– I’m thoroughly enjoying the new Continuous Pre-recording feature on the Canon R1. It virtually guarantees capturing the exact moment an action begins, without missing a beat. In this instance, I half-pressed the shutter before the bird moved, and once the action started, a full press ensured that the preceding 0.5 seconds were already recorded. The camera seamlessly continues with AF tracking. Check out the JPEG movie clips shared in the link for a closer look!
– a overall bigger common flameback, Black-yellow overall with pale eye instead
– Thanks Canon Malaysia having chance to have R1 to work out … as mentioned Continous Pre-capture is one of my favourite new features of new CANON R camera .. this is one of the test moment .. hope get more oppunity in wild to present to you all soon
– 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
Our visit to the mangrove was brief, but we were fortunate to see all the main targets, including this talented singer of Malaysia’s mangroves. It didn’t stay for long, and unfortunately, my settings were off—I ended up shooting at ISO 25,600. Yes, 25,600! But surprisingly, the result turned out fine for me.
我们在红树林的停留时间很短，但很幸运地看到了所有主要目标，包括这位来自马来西亚红树林的优秀歌手。它停留的时间不长，而我却设置错误，竟然用 ISO 25600 拍摄。是的，25600！但结果对我来说还算可以。
202502, Kuala Selangor, Selangor, Malaysia
update 202405
– a not so attractive bird for Mangrove special, but always a highly wanted bird by birders come to Malaysia.
– this time, a very lucky group.. while we walking at Mangrove.. someone talk to me.. a dull bird stand infront of .. is it common ? very soon I look at the direction, I saw it stand just open and everyone got their best view of this active shy bird.
5. Black-winged Kite, 黑翅鸢, 黑翅鳶, Elanus caeruleus, カタグロトビ, HELANG-TIKUS BIASA
update 202405
– another good start of the tour, not only hit most of the main targets but included some good view of common birds .. this small raptor got it’s prey and stand infront of us eating the rat …
6. Sunda Pygmy Woodpecker, 巽他啄木鸟, 巽他啄木鳥, Yungipicus moluccensis, マレーコゲラ, BELATUK-BELACAN KECIL BIASA
update 202411
– a very tiny Woodpecker, overall brown and white. Which normally found near mangrove, nearby river bank. But this time found near Palm oil Plantation which nearby mangrove area too
– while looking for more interesting subjects, this tiny bird came queitly whithout any vocal, but the movement attract me and got this moment
– – 小，棕+白小啄木鸟。通常在红树林，河边可以见到。可是这次在棕榈树见到。
– 在等更好的题材，这小小鸟静静地飞过来了。完全没声音。还好，动作吸引我见到这一刻。
202411, Kuala Selangor, Malaysia
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– a very tiny Woodpecker, overall brown and white. Which normally found near mangrove, nearby river bank.
– another moment with new CANON new R1 .. it is really fun and easy to capture any “birds in flight – begin, perch” just half press the shutter button enable the “Pre-capture” and when the moment after bird fly… press the shutter .. anything .5s before will be captured into the disk in full RAW without stop the Camera continous focus while the flying ..
It was a dramatic day — we missed our target in the morning and were caught in heavy rain by noon. Fortunately, the evening brought reasonably good birding. The next morning, however, turned out to be truly special. We had a great encounter with this bird as it flew back to its roosting site, and we managed to capture the moment perfectly without any issues.
It was another fantastic experience to see this bird again—even if just once—as it flew straight toward us. Not a particularly tough challenge for me with the R1: 98 frames in about 3 seconds, all perfectly in focus
– a not so common owl found Malaysia. Big size and with very vocal if found the correct one.
– I am making some nearby forest for trying the new CANON R1 to trying for AF lock on, AF tracking, Image Quality, Pre-capture … and trying again the in camera upscale. Found this bird roost at one of the Palm Oil plantation before strong sunlight come in, the bird sudden flying out to its’ roosting side.the R1 as expected captured most of the frame without any issue even with background change.
Years ago (probably more than 10 years back), this Mangrove Pitta spot was also known for a pair of woodpeckers that often came down to feed. Today, while checking on the Mangrove Pitta, the main target didn’t show up—but instead, a pair of Laced Woodpeckers dropped in and entertained us. A very nice bonus encounter.
202602, Pulau Indah, Selangor, Malaysia202602, Pulau Indah, Selangor, Malaysia
#####
update 202411
– a quite common woodpecker found here (Penisular Malaysia), which normally found near Mangrove. area
– yet another R1 pre-capture moment captured .. it is real fun to have this Pre-capture function show how this bird “jump up” begin the flight. It is real cool to have Pre-cature every single moment and continue with normal operation like re-focus, tracking …
– a mid-size of Kingfisher calling Collared Kingfisher alike, but unmistakable with bright white-with rufous on chest and dark-blue back+black.
– a casual visit nearby beach which I told my buddy, his target Black-capped Kingfisher can be found here … very good environment. But I didn’t see it last 3 visits but today.. when I arrive, spot a familiar bird far and inside palm tree. After a while of keep looking, found it making pre-roosting shower … bingo
11. Oriental Reed Warbler, 东方大苇莺, 東方大葦鶯, Acrocephalus orientalis, オオヨシキリ, CEKUP-PAYA BESAR BIASA
update 202411
– It’s great to see them return to the paddy fields, where they are as active as ever in the morning. I came to test out the Canon R1, and with its new Continuous Pre-recording and advanced AF tracking features, I was able to capture the moment they took off and flew toward us. Later, I combined the JPEGs into a single movie file.
– One of the most common woodpeckers in Malaysia, this species can be found in a variety of environments—lowlands, mangroves, sub-montane forests, and even urban areas. Its overall rufous coloration makes it hard to miss.
– While testing the Canon R1’s “Continuous Pre-recording” feature, the bird was perched as usual. I half-pressed the shutter to activate Pre-recording, and only fully pressed it when the bird took off from the branch. Every frame of the action was captured in full RAW and saved to my card.
– 在测试佳能 R1 的“连续预录”功能时，这只鸟像往常一样站在树枝上。我半按快门开启预录功能，直到鸟从树枝起飞时才完全按下快门。整个动作的每一帧都被完整记录为 RAW 格式并存储在卡中。
202411, Kuala Selangor, Malaysia
#####
13. Common Flameback, 金背三趾啄木鸟, 金背三趾啄木鳥,Dinopium javanense, ズアカミユビゲラ, BELATUK-PINANG BIASA
update 202411
– Another common woodpecker in Malaysia, resembling the Greater Flameback but smaller in size with dark eyes.
– Another moment captured using the CANON R1’s Continuous Pre-record feature.
– 在马来西亚的另一种常见啄木鸟，外形与大金背啄木鸟相似，但体型较小，眼睛呈深色。
– 使用 CANON R1 的连续预录功能捕捉到的另一个瞬间。
202411, Kuala Selangor, Malaysia
14. Golden-bellied Gerygone, 黄胸噪刺莺,黃胸噪刺鶯, Gerygone sulphurea, マレーシアセンニョムシクイ, KELICAP-PEREPAT ASIA
Tiny and rather unobtrusive bird with brownish upperparts and luminous lemon-yellow underparts. Superficially similar to female and juvenile Olive-backed Sunbirds, but note gerygone’s short, uncurved bill. Forages in parks, forests, and plantations, where it often joins mixed flocks moving through the middle and upper layers. Song is variable throughout its range but invariably includes buzzy notes with obvious rises and falls in pitch. [Ebird]
It was a scorching afternoon with barely any bird activity—until we heard this one calling loudly. Not long after, it came right to us, proudly showing off those striking long legs!
A tiny bird with a beautiful song, it’s often challenging to capture a good photo due to its small size. However, this time, it came down close enough for us to get a clear shot.
My year-end birding tradition often takes me to the paddy fields in search of winter visitors. If I recall correctly, my buddy and I were waiting for some warblers when, out of nowhere, this raptor flew in, staring right at us! But no—it wasn’t us it was focused on. The Purple Heron caught its attention, flying between us and the harrier. I couldn’t help but wonder what the harrier was thinking as it kept its eyes on the heron for quite a distance.
16. Collared Scops Owl, 领角鸮, 领角鸮, Otus lettia, JAMPUK BIASA
update 202502
It was truly an owl-filled day—we spotted six owl species in just one day! This last one had been particularly elusive; we had tried to get a good view of it a few days ago without much success. But today, it seemed to stay in place for a long time, giving everyone a perfect view.
17. Eastern Barn Owl, 仓鸮, 東方倉鴞, Tyto alba, メンフクロウ, SERAK BIASA
update 202504
Met up with a customer-turned-friend who hasn’t really been birding for the past 2–3 years. He mentioned he needed a bit of a spark to get back into it and wanted to learn more about the post-shooting workflow too.
We started the day missing our main target — no luck with the Rail-babbler — but he was totally fine with that. After a heavy rain, things turned around quickly. In just over 90 minutes, we saw 7 owls! What a fantastic night.
This was one of his main targets — and not long after we arrived, we got a great view of it staying around for quite a while!
18. Oriental Bay-Owl, 栗鸮, 栗鴞,Phodilus badius, ニセメンフクロウ, PUNGGUK-API BIASA
update 202504
“It’s been a wonderful week for owls—spotted 1 out of the 8 owls! It’s a shame it didn’t show well on the second visit, but still great to see it again here. ***Interestingly, it seems like the other owls don’t like this one—many came by to check it out while we were searching for it.
19. Malaysian Eared-Nightjar, 马来毛腿夜鹰, 馬來毛腿夜鷹, Lyncornis temminckii, ミミヨタカ, TAPTIBAU MELAYU
update 202505
After a long wait in the heavy rain at dusk, this bird finally appeared silently. I couldn’t help but shout, “Malaysian Eared-Nightjar!” and managed to capture it using a very high ISO of #ISO51200. Despite the challenging conditions, it’s still great to see details of its back and chest.
在黄昏时分的大雨中等待良久，这只鸟终于悄无声息地出现了。我忍不住喊出：“马来短耳夜鹰！”并用非常高的 ISO 值 #ISO51200 拍下了它。尽管拍摄条件艰难，仍然能清楚看到它的背部和胸部细节，令人欣喜。
202505, Selangor, Malaysia
20. Pacific Swallow, 洋燕, Hirundo tahitica, リュウキュウツバメ, LAYANG-LAYANG BIASA
Update 202508
It was a beautiful evening by the river, with swifts and swallows flying low to feed and drink.
We tried capturing the action and were lucky to get a nice series of shots—here’s one of a swallow drinking mid-flight.
傍晚在河边真是美好时光，燕子和雨燕在河面上飞来飞去觅食和喝水。
我们试着拍下这一幕，幸运地捕捉到一些精彩画面，这张就是其中一张——燕子边飞边喝水。
21. Common Kingfisher, 普通翠鸟, 普通翠鳥, Alcedo atthis, カワセミ, RAJAUDANG CICIT
update 202509
This year it arrived a bit later than last year, but returned to the same spot with the same behavior—just like the past 5 years. Always a joy to see this beautiful kingfisher back for its winter break!
22. Slaty-breasted Rail, 灰胸秧鸡, 灰胸秧雞, Lewinia striata, ハシナガクイナ, SINTAR BIASA
update 202510
This bird carries a lot of memories for me—there was even a time I ended up at the police station just for photographing it!
Now, it appears regularly at a feeding spot, but still remains very sensitive to our movements. A special bird, always worth the patience.
23. Yellow-rumped Flycatcher, 白眉姬鹟, 白眉姬鶲, Ficedula zanthopygia, マミジロキビタキ, SAMBAR KUNYIT KENING PUTIH
update 202510
This is a fairly common winter visitor in the area, though this season we’ve noticed more females than males. Still, it’s always a pleasure to photograph this species—especially when it offers such a beautiful pose.
24. Dollarbird, 三宝鸟, 三寶鳥, Eurystomus orientalis, Eurystomus orientalis, TIUNG-BATU BIASA
update 202512
It was just a casual birding outing with friends, but this bird stayed low and actively flew around, giving everyone a chance to practice bird-in-flight shots. A common species, yet its colors are always a treat to see in flight.
During this season, this bird is surprisingly quiet. It hardly calls at all—just appears silently, perching nearby, preening and resting with very little movement. A calm and peaceful presence in the field.
normally at low land jungle/forest but it stands high up … and come by more than 1 …
update 202402
– few juvi bird feeding by the adult and managed to see this young bird just stay there but think capture by David Tseu not me .. he poison with the CANON RF200800 😀 ..
3. Rufous-winged Philentoma, 棕翅王鵙, 棕翅王鵙, Philentoma pyrhoptera, チャバネアカメヒタキ, REMBAH-BATU KECIL
– common lowland forest bird
– male with blue head and female with gray
update 202606
The jungle was quiet when we first heard this bird calling from a distance. Surprisingly, it approached us silently and swiftly—but we still managed to spot it and get a few good photo opportunities.
– depend on the checklist this split from Banded Kingfisher (if split it is Borneo endemic)
update 202404
– another good bird seen while waiting for target bird, this bird just came not that high and making some call .. beautiful male bird
– 沙巴另一只低海拔的主要目标鸟。在等其他鸟，这鸟飞在我们附近不高。
202403, Sepilok, Sabah
#####
update 202402
– while we waiting for ours target, a pair of this special Borneo endemic came really low while the target also came close to us… make everyone of us so busy to look for 3 of them 。。 this such a beautiful girl
– it is so hot here, the weather look same like previous Chinese New Year… hot .. hot .. hot .. I am just like this cute little fellow want to shower and shower
– 有如之前华人新年一样，非常热。就热热。。。我就如这小可爱，要冲凉啊。
202402, Sepilok, Sabah
6. Van Hasselt’s Sunbird, 紫喉蓝肩花蜜鸟, 紫喉藍肩花蜜鳥, Leptocoma brasiliana, アンハッセルトタイヨウチョウ, KELICAP BELACAN BIASA
– one of the most beautiful Sunbird of Malaysia, it wont be wrong if you see reddish+purple
– 马来西亚最漂亮花蜜鸟之一吧。远远看红+紫。
update 202402
– quite hot and humid afternoon, heard the bird call… and very soon saw it stand at top of the tree. lovely and beautiful bird as usual
– 蛮闷热的一个中午。听到鸟叫，很快就找到。站在树顶上，漂亮吧
202402, Sepilok, Sabah
7. 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 202402
– after got the Bornean Bristlehead, this bird soon come and make loud call for us .. really beautiful and loud call
9. Bornean Bristlehead, 棘毛伯勞, 棘头鵙, Pityriasis gymnocephala, ブタゲモズ, TIUNG-BATU KEPALA MERAH
– very special lowland Borneo endemic.
– overall black under and back. on top Red-Yellow-orange
– won’t miss the call as very weird calling
– male without red flanks where the female has
– 非常特別的婆羅洲特有種。
– 下半身都黑。頭頸部，紅-橙黃。
– 叫聲很特別。吵，有像狗叫。
update 202506
Such an exciting moment! After a long silence, this bird suddenly called out loudly—everyone was thrilled to spot it and watch it for a while. Then, to our surprise, three more showed up! What an amazing way to spend a hot afternoon.
– one of bird that not so rare but just need luck to be see one. Lucky guests have very good view even may not good chance to have good picture this round …
– just another close encounter of this bird, sometime just need some luck for this wonderful looking bird.
– 另一次的近距离拍摄这鸟。
202405, RDC, Sabah, Malaysia
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update 202404
– a wonderful group and trip, even begin with little bit problem where Indonesia Mount Ruang eruption cause us reach Borneo with little be delay .. and group decided travel to Kuala Lumpur than direct to Sabah.
– we start ours day with Spotted Wood Owl and Dusky eagle owl .. follow with many good birds and today we had one of the highly wanted target .. 7 birds show up after 1 day search and day 2 early morning gave us very good picture opportunity
– a very Asian Brown like bird, but upper chest seem have brown streak
update 202507
Another great sighting of this uncommon bird—this time with two juveniles and one adult. Truly a lucky moment to end our day with such a close view of a species I’ve been hoping to see up close again.
– not my first time seeing this bird here, but few occasion and this time we saw it carry nesting material went into a canopy tree.. but not able to have record picture
It’s a noisy bird, but I always enjoy seeing it. It gives us great opportunities for photography, even though it’s just a plain black bird and not particularly striking. Its unique actions—like calling while moving its head up and down—make for special photo moments.
During a brief visit to RDC, we were scanning for birds to photograph when this one approached, making a noisy call. Suddenly, it flew toward us. Without hesitation, I pressed the shutter. Despite the low light in the forest and the high ISO, it still tracked well.
– another bird that use to be not so common at RDC but recently it become almost cannot miss bird .. a black bird that look similar to Peninsular Malaysia species but here without the white patch on wing
– another very close encounter of the lovely woodpecker, the story behind is the bird only have certain angle to have better view but it is always good to tolerate to have every got chance to have a good picture or view
Another commonly seen trogon at RDC, Sepilok, Sabah—though often confused with the equally common Diard’s Trogon. We were lucky that day, as this one stayed around long enough for us to enjoy and capture plenty of photos.
– same bird since last month stay same area. It stay so long for us .. not best angle but still can see how beautiful is the Trogon. a Lovely male, follow by Diard’s trogon stand just ~20m away … lucky day for Trogon ..
It’s nearly impossible to miss this bird at RDC, Sepilok, Sabah—it’s usually very common. On our last trip, it was a bit shy, but this time it was back to its usual self, coming really close. This shot was taken at around 400mm on a full-frame camera. From up close, it’s easy to see why its Chinese name translates to “Purple Crown.”
– a “purple” head trogon than wont be missed, and pretty common bird to be seen at Sepilok, Sandakan.
– 有如其名，紫顶。在山打根RDC蛮普通的。
202403, Sepilok, Sabah
15. Green Broadbill, 绿阔嘴鸟, 小綠闊嘴鳥, Calyptomena viridis, ミドリヒロハシ, Burung Selawit
update 202405
– it is my first time heard and see this bird in RDC .. may be I am not lucky ? but it is rare for myself .. it is so happy for everyone after we have few very good view like this.
While waiting for our main target, a few birds came close, giving us great photo opportunities. Among them was this lovely small cuckoo, which approached us to within 5–10 feet of the ground. It was a pleasure to see it up close, especially as it called loudly.
Another morning out searching for the main target, but it seems to be a no-show again. Still, I’m grateful for the abundance of birds around—including this charming woodpecker, which looked like it was putting on a little display to impress someone!
– a big “black” woodpecker which you wont go wrong with the ID here in Malaysia. It is not that rare but common at RDC, Sepilok, Sabah. Walk around very good chance to have very good view of this beautiful woodpecker.
– lucky group to have this bird stay for more than 20 minutes for us to take almost every angle of this bird
update 202405
– another casual birding behind the resort as already got all the targets .. but not bad got few good speciess include this beautiful woodpecker with close view
– a quite common “brown” woodpecker with “white” mark on neck
– 几乎所有目标都拿下了。就到酒店后面轻松拍拍，尽然遇上好几只鸟很近的让我们拍照。
202404, RDC, Sabah, Malaysia
22. Velvet-fronted Nuthatch, 绒额䴓, 絨額䴓, Sitta frontalis, ビロウドゴジュウカラ, PEPATUK BIASA
update 202406
– a bird that normally active, moving fast and high on tree trunk… as usual this is fast and active … but we saw it just ~5-7 feet from use .. a great view of this bird ..
It is a common bird but often overlooked, as it can sometimes be mistaken for other species and tends to stay near the canopy.
它是一种常见的鸟类，但经常被忽视，因为它有时会与其他物种混淆，并且更喜欢在树冠附近活动。
202412, RDC, Sabah, Malaysia
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update 202406
– it is flowering season, so many tree with flowers at RDC. Birds come feed near flower, nectar, insects etc .. included this not so common bird also come feed on the nectar.
– 在西必洛雨林公园，很多书都结花。很多鸟都为了花蜜，昆虫都飞的很近很低。
202406, RDC, Sabah, Malaysia
25. Buff-rumped Woodpecker, 黄腰斑啄木鸟, 黃腰斑啄木鳥,Meiglyptes tristis, ヒメカレハゲラ, BELATUK-BATU BIASA
update 202407
– a small woodpecker overall “brown” with stripe front. sometime it is confuse with Buff-necked which is slight bigger with “white-neck” spot make it easier to different
update 202407
– a raining afternoon, almost lost full half day but before we call it a day. Got few birds gave us some good view include this Borneo endemic. a pair stay low and long for us.
– 几乎整个下午都下雨，看是没什么机会。我还是叫大家到有花的地方等雨停，还好好几只不错的鸟出现。包括这只婆罗洲特有种。
202407, RDC, Sepilok, Sabah
27. Rufous-collared Kingfisher, 栗领翡翠, 栗領翡翠, Actenoides concretus, アオヒゲショウビン, PEKAKA-RIMBA MELAYU
update 202407
– a bird that use to quite easy at Sabah but getting tough to have good view .. may be I am losing luck to see ti good at Sabah. But a lucky group of people see it close and good with front, side and back view.
– a forest Kingfisher that normally stay not that high from ground.
28. Maroon Woodpecker, 小栗啄木鸟, 小栗啄木鳥, Blythipicus rubiginosus, エビチャゲラ, BELATUK-PUNGGUR MERAH
update 202408
– a common heard woodpecker but seldom good chance to be photograph. lovely yellow beak, mid size woodpecker. This bird make a surprise for us, fly infornt of ~5-10feet for us
– 在马来西亚（东马，西马）都很常听到而拍不到的鸟。这鸟很乖啊，飞过来5-10尺前让我们拍拍。
202408, RDC, Sepilok, Sabah
29. Fiery Minivet, 火红山椒鸟, 火紅山椒鳥, Pericrocotus igneus, コベニサンショウクイ, BURUNG-MATAHARI KECIL BIASA
update 202408
– another close encounter of this lovely minivet and female just too close to us.
– 又一次幸运的这么近的看到这么漂亮的鸟。
202408, RDC, Sepilok, Sabah
30. Large-tailed Nightjar, 长尾夜鹰, 長尾夜鷹, Caprimulgus macrurus, オビロヨタカ, TUKANG BIASA
update 202409
– it is a lucky sight, day roost of this common night bird just near the restaurant. It stay quiet and doesn’t move at all.
– 马来西亚蛮普通的夜鸟。多么不可思议，这鸟在我们餐厅旁休息。动都不动。
202404, RDC, Sepilok, Sabah
31. Raffles’s Malkoha, 棕胸地鹃, 棕胸地鵑, Rhinortha chlorophaea, クリイロバンケンモドキ, CENUK KERAK
update 202410
– one of most easier and common Malkoha in this region. Male predominantly bright rufous-brown with darker tail, female has gray head and chest.
– a lucky moment, to see this bird flying toward us and with the new CANON R5mii.. just too easier to capture this bird flying toward us
– 在马来西亚，这算事最普通的地鹃。雄鸟，头是棕色。木鸟灰白色。
– 我们算事幸运的遇上这鸟飞向我们，在佳能R5markii的对焦+追焦功能。很容易吧这一刻拿下。
202410, Sepilok, Sabah, Malaysia
32. Stork-billed Kingfisher, 鹳嘴翡翠, 鸛嘴翡翠, Pelargopsis capensis, コウハシショウビン, PEKAKA-EMAS BIASA
update 202410
– a big yellow and “big beak” Kingfisher, it does look slight different from Peninsular Malaysia/Thailand/India
– 3 years ago, I am testing R3 at Kuala Selangor with this bird flying and managed to have good result. Now, finally the high megapixel R5markii finally also come with good focusing system. The bird dive into pond without any notice and without any fish it flying back to nearby perch. I didnt prepare for any dive shots but managed to get the bird focus almost immediate I point my camera to the bird.
– Brownish olive above with a yellow belly, faint yellow crescents around the eye, and faint speckling on the crown
– A fairly common bird that simply requires a bit of patience to photograph, as it will eventually come to the flowers.
– 上体呈褐橄榄色，腹部黄色，眼周有淡黄色弯月纹，头顶有淡淡的斑点。
– 一种相当常见的鸟，只需稍加耐心等待拍摄，它最终会来到花丛中。
202410, Sepilok, Sabah, Malaysia
34. Blue-headed Pitta, 蓝头八色鸫, 藍頭八色鶇, Hydrornis baudii, ズアオヤイロチョウ, Burung Pacat Kepala Biru
update 202503
It’s a great way to start the month with two sightings of this stunning Borneo endemic Pitta. It wasn’t far, but I stuck with my 500mm lens, avoiding getting closer to disturb it before others had their chance to capture it. Such incredible colors!
35. Orange-backed Woodpecker, 橙背啄木鸟, 橙背啄木鳥,Reinwardtipicus validus, アカハラコガネゲラ, BELATUK DADA MERAH
update 202503
It’s a hectic day—I’m traveling from Borneo back to Kuala Lumpur, and within six hours, I have to catch a flight to Indonesia for another exciting trip. Unfortunately, my own mistake made the schedule quite chaotic.
Despite that, it was an incredible photography tour with great luck spotting woodpeckers. One of them even came down close and low, giving us a perfect opportunity for some great shots.
36. Ventriloquial Oriole, 巴拉望黑喉黄鹂, 巴拉望黑喉黃鷂, Oriolus consobrinus, KUNYIT-BONGSU TIMUR
update 202504
It was previously classified as the same species as the Dark-throated in Peninsular Malaysia but has now been split into the “Ventriloquial” species for Borneo. The female lacks the black hood.
It’s a common sunbird, but I can’t remember the last time I had such a good view of a male. This time, it stayed low and gave us plenty of time for some great shots!
39. Scarlet Minivet, 赤红山椒鸟, 赤紅山椒鳥, Pericrocotus speciosus, シュイロサンショウクイ, BURUNG-MATAHARI BESAR BIASA
update 202509
One of the most common yet stunning birds of Malaysia’s lowland forests. While it’s not frequently seen at RDC, we were lucky to have a few individuals feeding just a few meters away. The lovely female gave us a longer and closer view than the male — a real treat!
The special target tour has finally come to an end. Unfortunately, for the first time ever, we missed 2 out of our 3 main targets — a tough pill to swallow. It’s my first time missing them during this special tour. But on the brighter side, we still did very well with many other species, including this beautiful pitta that gave us a great view and photo opportunity.
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.
– 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.
– 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 ..
– arrive Bukit Tinggi noon time which is not much thing we can do, but trying to look for this lovely bird. Stop at first spot and found this bird stay not that high up. But there is a path to climb up to have eye level. Very soon I found it and spoke to small kid (Dev) without any delay he follow me climb up ~20-30m for this picture .. while we going down only he found out we actually climb up quite high 😀 good work boy
– this location use to be one of the easiest place to see this bird, for last few years seem getting slight challenge. Lucky Dev have this real close and long for us
7. Mountain Peacock-Pheasant, 山孔雀雉, アカコクジャク, KUANG-CERMIN GUNUNG
update 202510
This bird holds so many memories — I still remember those early days with Lee, sitting quietly in the hide, waiting patiently just to catch a glimpse. Our first photo and video of it felt like a real achievement. Now, it’s become so easy to see that many no longer appreciate how beautiful and special it truly is.
My final Malaysia birding tour of the year ended here. As expected, the bird showed up early with the partridges, and to our surprise, even displayed a bit — though the female showed no interest. That moment somehow felt like a reflection of myself… perhaps it’s time to seek more “green food” in life again.
– one of the bird I see and photograph most. Years back, we have so many tours just for the Malaysia endemic (Malaya) .. it come to feeding spot over the years and seldom miss
– one of the most beautiful and easy bird to be found and photograph, make me want to find this bird to show to young photographer, Dev. But this time we failed to found one at Fraser Hill but found this family of 3 birds at Bukit Tinggi.
9. Rufous Piculet, 棕啄木鸟, 棕啄木鳥,Sasia abnormis, マレーミツユビコゲラ, BELATUK-KERDIL API MELAYU
update 202408
– a special tour make us wait for long here, main target got close but dont show .. but many good birds around.. Green Broadbill and this bird show well .. this little fellow never fail to amaze people such a small bird make loud druming sound.
– This is a common bird found in Malaysia’s lowland forests, but it is often overlooked because both the male and female have relatively plain appearances, except for the male’s distinctive blue or dark forehead.
– During our chit-chat session, my buddy suddenly spotted something flying in. He was thrilled to notice it before anyone else—such is the joy of birding: the excitement of discovering it yourself!
14. Black-thighed falconet, 黑腿小隼, Microhierax fringillarius,モモグロヒメハヤブサ, RAJAWALI-BELALANG MELAYU
update 202502
The female remained in the same position for days, made a brief stop, and was quite vocal. Eventually, the male arrived, and the mating session took place—it was a lengthy one, lasting over two minutes in total.
This is our very first bird of this long tour. There’s so much rubbish around, unfortunately. But on a funny note, it seems “he” also enjoys Starbucks coffee!
这是我们这次你啊团遇到的第一只鸟。可惜这里垃圾很多。不过有趣的是，似乎“它”也喜欢星巴克咖啡！
202502, Bukit Tinggi, Pahang, Malaysia
16. Eyebrowed Wren-Babbler, 纹胸鹪鹛, 紋胸鷦鶥, Napothera epilepidota, コサザイチメドリ, KEKICAU KENING PANJANG
update 202504
“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 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.
18. Sooty Barbet, 马来褐拟鴷, 馬來褐擬鴷, Caloramphus hayii, ススイロゴシキドリ, TAKUR-DAHAN MELAYU
update 202507
It was a quiet day birding with a few close friends at this birding spot. Not much action, but luckily, this species came to the rescue—four of them called nearby and came in close, giving everyone a chance for some great photos.
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
202511, Bukit Tinggi, Pahang, Malaysia
20. Dusky Broadbill, 暗阔嘴鸟, 暗闊嘴鳥, Corydon sumatranus, ガマヒロハシ, HUJAN-HUJAN BESAR
update 202511
What a surprise to spot this species here! Although not the first time, it’s still quite rare to see them in this area. Even better, they were feeding very close to us—right at eye level—giving us a great photography opportunity.
A noisy flock too, making their presence known and helping us locate them easily!
One of our guests’ top targets! While we don’t have a specific spot for this bird, we were lucky enough to spot it twice during our 8-day trip. This particular one perched just a meter away, staring right back at us.
– 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
2. Western Hooded Pitta, 绿胸八色鸫, 黑領八色鳥, Pitta sordida, ズグロヤイロチョウ, BURUNG-PACAT HIJAU BIASA
update 202602
After sharing so many overseas sightings, it’s time to post a familiar face from Malaysia. A very common bird, yet always beautiful to watch and photograph. This winter visitor has been returning to the same spot year after year.
– another bird that I rarely photograph beside feeding spot… this as usual a bird capture at feeding spot. It is tame as usual come together with another lovely Kingfisher
– another common bird but beautiful.. one of the “brown” woodpecker among many colorful woodpecker of Malaysia
– 马来西亚的啄木鸟都很多颜色的，就好几种比较闷。包括这一只，可是还是漂亮的。也蛮普通。
202404, Taiping, Perak, Malaysia
4. Gray-and-buff Woodpecker, 灰黄啄木鸟, 灰黃啄木鳥,Hemicircus concretus, カンムリコゲラ, BELATUK-DAUN DAHI MERAH
update 202406
– a short break after long tours, friend ask to join their lifers looking North… but end up we spend 21 hours road travel+birding. This bird came so close and low while after long quiet time for us.
– small and active woodpecker, male with red crown, female no.. this seem Juvenile which have “orange” crown.
5. Asian Emerald Cuckoo, 翠金鹃 , 翠金鵑, Chrysococcyx maculatus, ミドリテリカッコウ, SEWAH-ZAMRUD ASIA
update 202601
Back to reality in Malaysia so soon—where the birds are shy, active, and often hidden in dark forest light. But it’s the right season for some special species, including this beautiful African Emerald Cuckoo that has been returning to Taiping for years. Everyone is trying to capture it in their own way, and I was lucky to get a few nice shots as it flew toward us, taken with the Canon R6 Mark III.
这么快就回到马来西亚，重新面对现实——鸟儿害羞、动作快，又常在光线昏暗的环境中活动。好在现在是观鸟的好季节，其中就有这只美丽的绿咬鹃，多年来每年都会回到太平。大家都想拍出不同的角度，我很幸运，在它飞向我们的时候用 Canon R6 Mark III 拍到了几张好照片。
– just finish my fist long tour (19days) which sight 366++ (ebird).. many good memory for sure … and this common bird make us spent so much time to have a clear view and even the Bornean Bristlehead above us… no one want to have a look at it … all of suddenly these 2 birds pop up and making some displaying, dancing for us …
– a very active and normally not easy to have full open view
– 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.
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 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
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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
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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
– this bird can be found easily near Lodge area but we seldom stay.. most of ours activities walk from the lodge but this time we got this bird easily just ~200-400m away on ground (~5cm from ground) … it pick the fruit for feeding ?
4. Chestnut-rumped Babbler, 红腰穗鹛, 紅腰穗鶥, Stachyris maculata, コシアカモリチメドリ, KEKICAU-KANTAN BESAR BIASA
update 202403
– another active bird that getting difficult to seen and photograph compare many years ago. But this time, this bird seem very good to come close but still moving fast
– 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
– another bird that we keep looking walk so far to look for one but this nearby to ours’ lodge area just one standing and calling attract ours attention
– not much activities near road side of BRL, really hope to go into trail more actions
– 为了这一只特有种，走上走下都没找到。第二天就在我们的饭店100米内站着等我们。
– 在大路上几乎鸟不多，很奇怪。可是太多人又不好走林道。
202405, Danum Valley, Sabah, Malaysia
#####
update 202403
– a very tame and easy female this time, it just keep following us until we got the male after ~30-40minutes first saw this bird
– 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 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 ..
– 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 bird quite common at Danum Valley and not else where, and this time meet this bird at Canopy bridge and it show weird reaction shaking its head ..
– 另一只在丹绒谷蛮普通的鸟（在其他地方蛮难找的）。这次还在高桥处看到他的特别摇头动作。
202403, Danum Valley, Sabah, Malaysia
9. White-crowned Forktail, 白冠燕尾, 白额燕尾, Enicurus leschenaulti, frontalis, エンビシキチョウ, CEGAR RAYA BIASA
update 202508
One of Malaysia’s shyer birds—still remember how we used to rely on a hide in Selangor years ago just to get decent photos. But this time at Danum Valley, they came incredibly close to us—no hiding needed! Not just one, but around four birds came in for a great photo session. 😄
What a morning surprise! While walking along the main road, this bird suddenly jumped out just about 10 feet in front of us.
真是个清晨的惊喜！当我们走在主路上时，这只鸟突然跳出来，距离我们大约只有十英尺远。
#####
update 202506
What a morning surprise! While walking along the main road, this bird suddenly jumped out just about 10 feet in front of us.
真是个清晨的惊喜！当我们走在主路上时，这只鸟突然跳出来，距离我们大约只有十英尺远。
202505, Danum Valley, Sabah, Malaysia
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update 202408
– a very shy bird to have good view and photo, it normally found near small stream or wet ground near “water area”. a lowland species
– 非常害羞的鸟，通常见到。没办法拍好。通常在小溪边可以找到它。
202407, Danum Valley, Sabah, Malaysia
#####
update 202403
– it is a bird that always avoid me, I didn’t got many chance to take photo of this common but shy bird. But this month within same tour, I got both Borneo-Sabah and Peninsular Malaysia-Pahang version … and surprise they are tame and allow us approach them ~10m
It’s always a pleasure to see this owl resting quietly in the open. This individual seemed to be keeping its distance from a nearby Buffy Fish Owl. Hopefully, there won’t be any territorial dispute between them.
– it is a lucky night, after got the Barred Eagle Owl… this bird just stand there for us .. another good picture to show the different between indranee Group (Peninsular Malaysia) & leptogrammica Group (Borneo)
11. 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
update 202508
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!
– it is one of the beautiful non black-and-white forktail here .. beautiful and shy as usual .. not that difficult to see it near the stream.
– 马来西亚蛮漂亮的燕尾，也是唯一不是黑+白的。蛮害羞，在溪边蛮容易看到的。
202403, Danum Valley, Sabah, Malaysia
13. Cream-eyed Bulbul, 白眼鹎, 白眼鵯, Pycnonotus pseudosimplex, MERBAH MATA PUTIH BORNEO
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
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
15. Great Argus, 大眼斑雉, 大眼斑雉, Argusianus argus, セイラン, KUANG-RAYA BIASA
update 202409
– another revisit of the dancing ground, the bird still there calling the mate .. sad no one see interest on him … this time with the CANON RF200-800mm. Trying to walk slight close to have closer shot .. can see some ticks on the face .. and remember my buddy say it is ugly bird ! what a beauty
– we have ours main targets ticked, so we look for any other target … we walk real slow in the morning until the first spot and the bird not there .. continue walking and reach 2nd location … we just walk into the trail for nothing to hope but when we got close it calling loud and when we reach the bird seem shy .. than we decided to walk further … and wait .. not that long they bird sudden appear and displaying for us !!!! wow wow
– a post make us think, why me and my best buddy (i think he think the same now) always got something unexpected. It is boring to know the result while you going for … buddy hope everything is fine for you … I really miss ours time, you make me strong, you make me ignore gossip …
– one of the best moment 2024, it is a relax birding day after we had all 3 main targets of the Families DONE. When we arrive the dancing ground, the bird seem shy and walk to a side .. and we decided to move further to monitor the bird and get some pictures. Nothing to expect, all of sudden it start displaying (dancing) … Immediate got the “one of the best moment of 2024” .. (still like a dream
– a big bird .. real big and shy if not found the “dancing ground” which always heard but not seen. But Danum Valley still one of best place to see it and photograph it .. one of few good view of this bird
– active and common Borneo endemic in certain places like Sabah RDC, Danum Valley BRL
– for the group this is the only bird that keep seeing again and again in very close distance.
– 在婆罗洲, 西必洛,丹浓谷保护区 都不难拍到这鸟。
– 在上一团，这可是见最多的婆罗洲特有种。还要是特别近距离的。
202405, Danum Valley, Sabah, Malaysia
17. Bornean Bristlehead, 棘毛伯勞, 棘头鵙, Pityriasis gymnocephala, ブタゲモズ, TIUNG-BATU KEPALA MERAH
update 202412
Another great moment 2024—after missing this bird at RDC, we were fortunate to encounter it up close and low on our way to Danum Valley. It made quite a lot of noise, even while feeding on insects.
– finally back from a stress tour, leading 10 (2 cannot make it ) for 3 special monotypic families, we spend 2.5 days for this.. Everyone seem tired but still patient for the process of waiting and looking (thanks for the trust) finally we have very good view of this Borneo endemic for ~2-3 minutes low … lucky group also managed to record 200+ birds (only lowland forest and some amazing species)
– we had some hard time to have this main target at RDC due to just very short stop over. Everyone seem stress while we arrive Danum Valley with heavy rain … but lucky with rain slow down and we stop a quick birding .. and not that long, we have good view of the bird ! with some flying action too (may be due to raining)
– 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
20. Rufous Piculet, 棕啄木鸟, 棕啄木鳥,Sasia abnormis, マレーミツユビコゲラ, BELATUK-KERDIL API MELAYU
update 202406
– a tiny woodpecker always excited to see them actively moving and drum loud for such a small bird.
– a place quite common to see them, Danum Valley not that difficult to photograph too
– 一只每次客人看到都很惊讶的一只小小啄木鸟。跳动快，啄木声很大。。。就这么小不点。
– 在马来西亚低海拔森林，不难见到。在沙巴丹浓谷，更是容易见到，拍到。
202406, Danum Valley, Sabah, Malaysia
21. Blue-headed Pitta, 蓝头八色鸫, 藍頭八色鶇, Hydrornis baudii, ズアオヤイロチョウ, Burung Pacat Kepala Biru
update 202510
Another rewarding visit to Danum Valley! As usual during this season, this beautiful pitta showed well — just about 50 meters from the lodge lobby. It stood in the open and called for a while, giving us a great view to start our day!
– another bird always to look for when we are at Borneo. This month, we saw it few times at Danum Valley and Tabin. Amazing colors on this particular bird.
– it is always good reason to visit Danum Valley for this wonderful Pitta, this bird can be either very challenge or very easy to see especially the right time and place. (plan for right time, the bird can be like this one just give up show infront of 10 of us and stay for photo)
– when the time come, right season make this so much easier ..compare to last few months. The bird just come and check and I am just ~10 feet from him. I think this is one of the Pitta I really enjoy to see its’ behavior than waiting for hours in spot … so much fun to see ~5 birds just 2 km in the trail .. 3 of them gave me good chance to have photographs
22. Oriental Bay-Owl, 栗鸮, 栗鴞,Phodilus badius, ニセメンフクロウ, PUNGGUK-API BIASA
update 202407
– I do not have much luck on this special looking and cute owl … but last tour, I had 2 different locations which included this sight at Danum Valley and 3 of them standing surrounding me and making very soft call
– last morning at Danum, walk little slower as waiting more light to go into trail for more species but this bird just come out from bush and walk infront of us and Spread your wings
– a lovely “song bird” make a very lovely song almost just like Sooty-capped babbler .. moving in flock and fast
– 一只非常会唱歌的鸟，有时会与也非常厉害的纯色树鹛相似。通常群体活动。
202408, Danum Valley, Sabah, Malaysia
26. 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
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 🙁
27. Green Broadbill, 绿阔嘴鸟, 小綠闊嘴鳥, Calyptomena viridis, ミドリヒロハシ, Burung Selawit
update 202409
– still remember a lucky day with 2nd encounter of Bornean Bristlehead. Someone also had the Bornean Wren-Babbler .. I shut Green Broadbill close .. real close .. she just stand ~5-10 feet away trying to grab the nesting material ..
One of the least common fantails—often tricky to identify—but this time, it stayed close and long enough for a clear confirmation. A wonderful encounter with this active and charming little bird!
This babbler isn’t particularly common, whether in Peninsular Malaysia or Borneo. It’s easily recognizable by its grey head, distinctive white eye-ring, and a noticeable “mustache” marking.
32. Red-throated Barbet, 丽色拟鴷, 麗色擬鴷, Psilopogon mystacophanos, ノドアカゴシキドリ, TAKUR RENGKUNG MERAH BIASA
update 202508
What a wonderful stretch—after seeing the Bornean Bristlehead and Bornean Banded Pitta, this beautiful barbet showed up right at eye level for us to enjoy!
One of the most beautiful pittas in Borneo—not rare, but often shy and habitat-specific. We were lucky to enjoy a wonderful encounter with this species at Danum Valley. It might even be the least pitta I see this year (2025)!
21. Wreathed Hornbill, 花冠皱盔犀鸟, Rhyticeros undulatus, シワコブサイチョウ, ENGGANG GUNUNG BIASA
####
1. Reddish Scops-Owl, 棕角鸮, 棕角鴞, Otus rufescens, アカチャコノハズク, JAMPUK MERAH
update 202402
– this bird do not make any vocal when we were at Taman Negara, but come to here it call non stop and after boring for 1 hour. This bird just sudden appear .. cute and persistent call owl in the forest
2. Bold-striped Tit-Babbler, 宽纹胸巨鹛, 寬紋胸巨鶥, Mixornis bornensis, シマムシクイチメドリ, KEKICAU-BERJALUR TIMUR
update 202503
It is a very common lowland bird in Borneo, known for being quite noisy. However, it is not easy to photograph due to its highly active nature.
它是婆罗洲非常常见的低地鸟类，以吵闹著称。然而，由于它非常活跃，拍摄起来并不容易。
202502, Kinabatangan River, Sabah
#####
update 202403
– another active bird, but this was quite easy for us to have good view and good picture too … happy
– 另一只不停的鸟。可是这次，这鸟非常乖，没几分钟就让我们看好好。拍好好
202403, Kinabatangan River, Sabah, Malaysia
3. Wrinkled Hornbill, 皱盔犀鸟, 皺盔犀鳥,Aceros corrugatus, ズグロサイチョウ, ENGGANG BERKEDUT MELAYU
update 202406
– 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
#####
– 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
#####
update 202405
– 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
4. Buffy Fish Owl, 马来渔鸮,馬來漁鴞, Ketupa ketupu, マレーウオミミズク, TUMBUK-KETAMPI BIASA
– medium size bird
– Large orange-brown owl with prominent “horns” and bright yellow eyes (ebird)
– common found near ponds, stream, and river
update 202405
– this is my 2nd time saw this owl catch a fish in the day time, just in-front of us. The bird with one eye injured but how it can catch prey in day time instead ?
– 这是我第二次见到这猫头鹰在光天化日下捉鱼。虽然他的一只眼受伤了，可是他还是活了很多年。
202404, Kinabatangan River, Sabah, Malaysia
#####
update 2024003
– another good night outing, we had >8 Buffy Fish Owl in 1.5 hours. Very common owl that normally live near river, lake ..
– 一个1.5小时的夜观，见到不少于8只马来鱼鸮。这鸟蛮普通的，在河边，湖边都不难见到。
202403, Kinabatangan River, Sabah, Malaysia
5. Common Kingfisher, 普通翠鸟, 普通翠鳥, Alcedo atthis, カワセミ, RAJAUDANG CICIT
update 202403
– this bird seem pretty common at Kinabatangan River .. not less than 20 birds over 2.5 days there
– 今年没什么候鸟，可是这一种却还好。2.5天看到不下20只吧
202403, Kinabatangan River, Sabah, Malaysia
6. Oriental Darter, 黑腹蛇鹈, 黑腹蛇鵜, Anhinga melanogaster, アジアヘビウ, KOSA-ULAR ASIA
update 202403
– very common bird Kinabatangan River, come at the right place can get close to the bird as close as 10 feet … they are not shy at all
“There it is!” — I find myself saying this every time I see this bird, forgetting that “there” means nothing unless everyone is looking from the same angle, direction, and height. Fortunately, the bird stayed long enough for us all to get a good view. Truly a wonderful bird to observe!
Lucky moment again! We spotted a pair walking from left to right, then back again before climbing up a tree to check us out. Everyone got a look—some with a perfect view, others like me with a slightly blocked one. Still, the excitement was real! Just sharing a memorable shot from our March visit with another group to this amazing and beautiful place – Kinabatangan River.
– not really like 2023, miss and hit this bird on 2024… but it gave us a long, close view last week .. it is ~15m from us for more than 30s full open view.
– wonderful moment while looking for this bird so long open on tree calling non stop .. it is total excitement to get one in the wild ..
– 没几个人感受到我们的兴奋，这么害羞的鸟站哪叫很久。在野拍的到这么一只鸟是多么兴奋。
9. Straw-headed Bulbul, 黄冠鹎, 黃冠鵯, Pycnonotus zeylanicus, キガシラヒヨドリ, BARAU-BARAU RAYA
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
– while we are on ours boat cruise, a pair of lovely “brown with white neck” woodpecker stay low and long for everyone have good view. Lovely male with red malar stripe
– 我们京河在船上舒服的观鸟时，这鸟站的很低很久。雄鸟脸颊带红。
202405, Kinabatangan River, Sabah, Malaysia
12. Green Imperial-Pigeon, 绿皇鸠, 綠皇鳩, Ducula aenea, ミカドバト, PERGAM DAUN BIASA
update 202407
– a fairy common bird found at Sabah, Borneo. especially at Kinabatangan River. Big, light-pale front and green back
– 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 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
16. Oriental Bay-Owl, 栗鸮, 栗鴞,Phodilus badius, ニセメンフクロウ, PUNGGUK-API BIASA
one of the most common can found , near garden, 2nd forest and primary forest .. just always hear but not seen
update 202510
This is one of those owls that can be confusing—tame and not rare, yet still tricky to spot at times. Thankfully, this location rarely disappoints. Once again, the owl stayed low and gave us plenty of time to enjoy and photograph it.
– a lovely owl, always give a cute look, overall white
– while we walking into forest .. heard the Bay owls calling to each other .. keep looking .. ohh. it is just in-front of us .. but standing not that low this time ..
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
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
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!
19. Great Slaty Woodpecker, 大灰啄木鸟, 大灰啄木鳥, Mulleripicus pulverulentus , ボウシゲラ, BELATUK-KELABU BESAR
update 202506
Now recognized as the largest woodpecker in the world, it’s not exactly rare, but spotting one can still be a challenge. They’re usually seen in pairs, moving through the forest with loud, distinctive calls.
Such an exciting moment—first, we heard its call nearby, then spotted it quietly resting high up in a tree. It didn’t take long before we all got a great view. Moments like this are what make birding so much fun!
21. Wreathed Hornbill, 花冠皱盔犀鸟, Rhyticeros undulatus, シワコブサイチョウ, ENGGANG GUNUNG BIASA
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.
