Malaysia is separated into two main birding regions - Peninsular Malaysia, and the states of Sabah and Sarawak on the island of Borneo. Many birds are common to both geographic areas though some species, known as endemics, are unique to a certain location,such as the Malayan Whistling Thrush in the peninsula and the Bornean Blue Flycatcher and Yellow-rumped Flowerpecker in Sabah.

Underscoring the importance of forests, birding activities are concentrated in three distinctive habitat types - montane forests, lowland rainforests and mangroves. Montane forests generally occur above an elevation of 900 metres, where species such as the Mountain Peacock-Pheasant and Mountain Blackeye thrive, in the cool damp climates and stunted trees of these high altitude regions.

Lowland rainforests, including freshwater swamp, peat and hill dipterocarp forests, remain the most extensive habitat for over 200 birds and are crucial to Storm’s Stork and Green Imperial Pigeon.

Other birds such as the Common Kingfisher depend on the mangrove forest ecosystems where salt and freshwater environs meet on the coastline fringe. While each habitat provides an excellent birding experience, try to visit several sites in different ecological zones to enjoy the variation in bird life.

For the first-time bird watcher or the avid amateur, there are three excellent bird watching sites within a few hours drive from Kuala Lumpur. These sites are easily accessible by bus or car and are equipped with a variety of accommodation for those who wish to spend time away from the city. Fraser’s Hill and Cameron Highlands both offer lush green surroundings with panoramic views and walkable hiking trails where bird life abound. For a pleasant day trip, check out the Kuala Selangor Nature Park, a mangrove swamp along the west coast that supports 130 bird species and some seasonal migrants including the rare Spoonbilled Sandpiper. In addition, those with more time may also want to travel further inland into Malaysia’s premier national park, Taman Negara where dense lowland forests are home to over 200 bird species.