NORTH MALAYA BIRDWATCHING KEY SITES

JungleWalla Nature Journal | Birding Guide

We have designed our itineraries to ensure travel time between most sites is optimized, typically not exceeding 3 to 4 hours. We prioritize scenic routes to showcase the Malaysian countryside, with scheduled birding breaks along the way. Our groups remain small to ensure comfort and a high-quality field experience.

KEDAH

Langkawi Island Langkawi is a geological and ecological gem. It features the oldest sandstone formations in Malaysia alongside stunning limestone karsts and sea stacks. The island offers a variety of habitats, including lowland rainforest, mangrove forest, and specialized limestone flora. It is home to over 200 species of birds and 340 species of butterflies. JungleWalla offers a full range of natural history tours, including specialized birdwatching and ecological expeditions. Tukun Perak This small rocky outcrop in the Straits of Malacca is a sanctuary for over 20 species of seabirds. Though a challenging journey by sea, the waters surrounding it are frequented by megafauna, including dolphins and various migratory marine species. Sungai Merbok Forest Reserve Comprising coastal tidal mudflats and extensive mangrove forests, this area is rich in aquatic life and migratory waterbirds. The backdrop of Jerai Peak adds to the landscape, which also holds deep historical significance as the site of Malaysia’s ancient Bujang Valley civilization. Ulu Muda Forest Reserve Spanning over 115,000 hectares, Ulu Muda is a vital wilderness area known for its salt licks (Sira), which attract large mammals like Elephants, Tapirs, and Sun Bears. It is a critical habitat for over 230 bird species, including nine species of Hornbills. It remains one of the few places to observe the rare Plain-pouched Hornbill during their seasonal movements. Sedim Forest Reserve Located at the base of the Bintang Range, Sedim features a world-class canopy walkway—one of the longest of its kind. At 30 meters above the forest floor, it provides an unparalleled "eyeball-to-eyeball" perspective for observing canopy-dwelling birds and other wildlife.

PERAK

Maxwell Hill (Bukit Larut) Malaysia's oldest hill station offers a pristine montane forest environment. Over 200 bird species have been recorded here, including the Mountain Peacock Pheasant and Black Eagle. The transition from lowland dipterocarp to lower montane forest provides a diverse range of sightings, including the Dark-handed Gibbon. Kuala Gula Bird Sanctuary A critical sanctuary within the Matang Mangrove Forest, Kuala Gula supports nearly 200 species of birds. It is a vital wintering site for migratory shorebirds, including the Eurasian Curlew and Terek Sandpiper. It is also one of the best locations to spot the Lesser Adjutant stork and various wetland-dependent raptors. Royal Belum State Park Royal Belum is a vast, ancient rainforest ecosystem. It is a stronghold for Malayan Tigers, Seladang, and Elephants. Birdwatchers can find over 200 species here, including all 10 Malaysian Hornbill species. The area is also home to the indigenous Jahai and Temiar tribes, who maintain a traditional lifestyle within the forest.

TRENGGANU

Setiu Wetlands Part of the Setiu-Chalok-Bari-Merang basin, these wetlands are a unique blend of freshwater, estuarine, and marine ecosystems. It serves as a critical nesting ground for the endangered Painted Terrapin and Green Turtles, as well as a productive habitat for coastal bird species. Redang Island While famous for its crystal-clear waters and marine life, Redang also offers jungle trekking opportunities through its island forest. The marine park is rich in coral biodiversity, making it an excellent stop for nature lovers who enjoy both terrestrial and aquatic environments. Tasek Kenyir As one of Southeast Asia's largest man-made lakes, Kenyir is surrounded by lush rainforest. It is an ideal location for birding by boat, offering access to remote forest edges where raptors and hornbills are frequently sighted.

THAILAND

Tarutao National Park (Butang Islands) Thailand’s first marine national park, featuring over 30 islands. Koh Adang offers diverse forest types and secluded beaches. The surrounding waters are known for Indo-Pacific Hump-backed Dolphins and seasonal migratory whales. Thale Sap Lagoons A massive system of linked lagoons stretching 80 km. This sophisticated ecosystem supports a mix of freshwater and brackish water species. It is a major site for waterfowl, including Painted Storks and various species of Jacanas and Herons. Thale Ban National Park A rugged limestone landscape in Southern Thailand. Its deep valleys and unique flora make it a protected area of international importance, providing a refuge for rare species along the Malaysian-Thai border.

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