Borneo is a paradise for birdwatchers, home to more than 600 bird species, including over 50 endemics. Whether you're trekking through the misty montane forests of Kinabalu Park or cruising along the Kinabatangan River, Sabah offers an incredible diversity of birdwatching experiences. 

From rare montane species to lowland rainforest gems and coastal birds, this guide to the top birding sites in Borneo will help you discover the best places for birdwatching on the island. 

 

Montane Birding (High-Altitude Species) 

Kinabalu National Park: Montane Birding at Its Best 

Location: West Coast of Sabah, near Mount Kinabalu 

Key Highlights: 

  • UNESCO World Heritage Site and Global Geopark 
  • Over 300 bird species 
  • Known for high-altitude bird species and Bornean endemics 

Kinabalu National Park, located around the towering Mount Kinabalu, is one of Borneo’s premier birdwatching destinations. The park’s altitudes, ranging from lowland forests to alpine meadows, offer habitat to a range of montane species. The endemic Whitehead’s Trogon and Bornean Treepie are major draws for birders around the world. 

Birds to Watch: 

Bornean Endemics: 

  • Whitehead’s Trogon 
  • Bornean Treepie 
  • Whitehead’s Spiderhunter 
  • Whitehead’s Broadbill 
  • Crimson Headed Patridge 
  • Bornean Green Magpie 
  • Bornean Stubtail 

Other Notable Species: 

  • Temminck’s Sunbird 
  • Sunda Laughingthrush 
  • Indigo Flycatcher 

Why Visit: 

With over 300 species, including many high-altitude endemics, Kinabalu Geopark is a must-visit for any birdwatcher. Its diverse habitats and well-maintained trails provide excellent opportunities to observe rare species.

Crocker Range National Park: A Tranquil Montane Birding Haven 

Location: Southwest Sabah 

Key Highlights: 

  • Home to montane and lowland species 
  • Varied habitats, from lowland forests to montane zones 

Crocker Range offers a quieter, more remote birdwatching experience compared to Kinabalu. Its range of altitudes supports a mix of habitats, making it ideal for spotting species like Whitehead’s Spiderhunter and Bornean Barbet. 

Birds to Watch: 

Montane Endemics: 

  • Bornean Banded Pitta 
  • Bornean Leafbird 
  • Bornean Bulbul 
  • Mountain Serpent-Eagle 
  • Bornean Barbet 

Other Notable Species: 

  • Bornean Whistler 
  • Temminck’s Sunbird 
  • Chestnut-crested Yuhina 
  • Bornean Forktail 

Why Visit: 

Birders looking for a more peaceful, immersive birding experience will love Crocker Range National Park. The diverse habitats and variety of species make it a hidden gem. 

Mount Alab: Highland Birdwatching with Bird Hide 

Location: Crocker Range, Sabah 

Key Highlights: 

  • Known for highland bird species 
  • Bird hide available for patient birdwatchers 

Mount Alab, located in the Crocker Range, is perfect for birdwatchers who enjoy a quieter experience. The bird hide allows you to sit back and observe species like Whitehead’s Broadbill in a serene environment. 

Birds to Watch: 

Highland Birds: 

  • Bornean Spiderhunter  
  • Bornean Bulbul 
  • Bornean Barbet 
  • Long Tailed Broadbill 
  • Orange Breasted Trogon 
  • Bornean Leafbird 
  • Red Breasted Hill Partridge 

Why Visit: 

Mount Alab’s bird hide makes it ideal for relaxed, patient birdwatching. The site offers tranquility and a chance to see rare highland species in their natural habitat.

Trusmadi Range: High-altitude Birdwatching with Bird Hide 

Location: Interior of Sabah 

Key Highlights: 

  • High-altitude bird species 
  • Bird hide available for patient observation 

The rugged Trusmadi Range offers excellent high-altitude birding opportunities for birders looking to explore more remote areas. The bird hide allows you to quietly wait for montane species to appear. 

Birds to Watch: 

Montane Species: 

  • Orange Headed Thrush 
  • Bulwer's Pheasant 
  • Crested Partridge 
  • Bornean Banded Pitta 
  • Bornean Brown Barbet 
  • Bornean Black Capped Babbler 
  • Fruithunter 

Why Visit: 

Trusmadi Range offers an immersive, peaceful birdwatching experience for those looking to spot rare montane species.

 

Lowland Rainforest Birding (Endemics, Hornbills, Pittas) 

Danum Valley Conservation Area: Lowland Rainforest Paradise 

Location: Southeast Sabah 

Key Highlights: 

  • Over 300 bird species 
  • Pristine lowland rainforest 
  • Home to many rare and endangered species 

Danum Valley is a pristine lowland rainforest with over 300 bird species. The rare Bornean Bristlehead is a major highlight, along with the dense forest and diverse habitats that attract many species. 

Birds to Watch: 

Lowland Endemics: 

  • Bornean Bristlehead 
  • Blue-headed Pitta 
  • Bornean Crested Fireback 
  • Bornean Wren-Babbler 
  • Bornean Spiderhunter 

Hornbills: 

  • Helmeted Hornbill 
  • Rhinoceros Hornbill 
  • Wrinkled Hornbill 
  • Bushy-crested Hornbill 

Other Notable Species: 

  • Wallace’s Hawk-Eagle 
  • Scarlet-rumped Trogon 
  • Great Argus 
  • Black-and-red Broadbill 
  • Storm’s Stork 

Why Visit: 

Danum Valley offers a rare opportunity to explore one of Borneo’s most untouched lowland rainforests. Its diversity of habitats and species make it an unforgettable destination.

Tabin Wildlife Reserve: A Haven for Hornbills and Ground Birds 

Location: Eastern Sabah, near Lahad Datu 

Key Highlights: 

  • Over 300 bird species 
  • Rich in hornbill species 
  • Night birding opportunities available 

Tabin Wildlife Reserve is famous for its hornbill population and ground birds like the Great Argus. Night birdwatching tours give birders the chance to see nocturnal species like the Buffy Fish-Owl. 

Birds to Watch: 

Endemic Birds: 

  • Bornean Bristlehead 
  • Bornean Wren-Babbler 
  • Blue-banded Pitta 
  • Bornean Banded Kingfisher 

Hornbills: 

  • Rhinoceros Hornbill 
  • Helmeted Hornbill 
  • Wrinkled Hornbill 
  • Black Hornbill 
  • Wreathed Hornbill 
  • Pied Hornbill 
  • White-crowned Hornbill 
  • Bushy-crested Hornbill 

Ground Dwellers: 

  • Great Argus 
  • Bornean Ground Cuckoo 
  • Crested Partridge 

Other Notable Species: 

  • Bornean Black Magpie 
  • Buffy Fish-Owl 
  • White-fronted Falconet 

Why Visit: 

Tabin Wildlife Reserve is ideal for birdwatchers looking to see iconic hornbills and elusive ground birds. The night birdwatching tours make this spot unique.

Kinabatangan River: Riverine Birdwatching and Migratory Birds 

Location: Lower Kinabatangan, Eastern Sabah 

Key Highlights: 

  • Over 200 bird species recorded 
  • Known for riverine bird species and migratory birds 
  • River cruises offer easy access to birdwatching 

The Kinabatangan River is one of Borneo’s most famous wildlife areas, offering a unique opportunity to spot riverine and migratory species. River cruises provide easy access to birdwatching. 

Birds to Watch: 

Riverine and Floodplain Birds: 

  • Storm’s Stork 
  • Oriental Darter 
  • Lesser Adjutant 
  • Purple Heron 

Hornbills: 

  • Rhinoceros Hornbill 
  • Helmeted Hornbill 
  • Wrinkled Hornbill 
  • Black Hornbill 
  • Wreathed Hornbill 
  • Pied Hornbill 
  • White-crowned Hornbill 
  • Bushy-crested Hornbill 

Raptors: 

  • Wallace’s Hawk-Eagle 
  • White-bellied Sea Eagle 
  • Crested Serpent-Eagle 

Other Notable Species: 

  • Blue-eared Kingfisher 
  • Stork-billed Kingfisher 
  • Bornean Falconet 
  • Ruddy Kingfisher 
  • Straw-headed Bulbul 

Why Visit: 

Kinabatangan River is perfect for birdwatchers looking to explore riverine habitats and spot rare migratory species. The scenic river cruises make for a relaxing birdwatching experience.

Sepilok Rainforest Discovery Centre (RDC): Perfect for Beginners 

Location: Sandakan, near the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre 

Key Highlights: 

  • Canopy walkways for spotting birds 
  • Over 250 species recorded 
  • Beginner-friendly birdwatching site 

Sepilok RDC is one of the most accessible birdwatching sites in Borneo, offering canopy walkways that allow birders to observe forest birds at eye level. Its easy access and facilities make it ideal for beginners. 

Birds to Watch: 

Lowland and Canopy Birds: 

  • Bornean Bristlehead 
  • Black-and-yellow Broadbill 
  • Rufous-collared Kingfisher 
  • Diard’s Trogon 
  • Charlotte’s Bulbul 
  • Wallace’s Hawk-Eagle 

Other Notable Species: 

  • Garnet Pitta 
  • Scarlet-rumped Trogon 
  • Orange Backed Woodpecker 
  • Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher 
  • Rhinoceros Hornbill 
  • Rufous Piculet 

Why Visit: 

With canopy walkways and excellent facilities, Sepilok RDC is perfect for beginners and those looking for a convenient birding location near Sandakan.

Tawau Hills Park: A Lowland Birding Gem 

Location: Tawau, Southeastern Sabah 

Key Highlights: 

  • Over 280 bird species 
  • Lowland dipterocarp forests 
  • Known for sightings of the Malayan Night Heron 

Tawau Hills Park is a peaceful lowland forest birdwatching destination known for its tranquil environment and diverse birdlife. Birdwatchers can enjoy sightings of species like the White-crowned Shama and Malayan Night Heron. 

Birds to Watch: 

Lowland Birds: 

  • Bornean Wren-Babbler 
  • White-crowned Shama 
  • Bornean Banded Kingfisher 
  • Bornean Banded Pitta 

Other Notable Species: 

  • Malayan Night Heron 
  • Buffy Fish-Owl 
  • Blue-banded Kingfisher 
  • Helmeted Hornbill 
  • Rufous-bellied Eagle 

Why Visit: 

Tawau Hills Park offers a tranquil birdwatching experience in Sabah’s lowland forests, with the chance to see rare species like the Malayan Night Heron.

 

Coastal and Wetland Birding (Migratory and Shorebirds) 

Mantanani Islands: Coastal Birding Paradise 

Location: Off the West Coast of Sabah 

Key Highlights: 

  • Famous for shorebirds and migratory birds 
  • Coastal island with picturesque views 

Mantanani Islands, off the west coast of Sabah, are a coastal paradise known for migratory shorebirds. The islands offer a stunning environment for birdwatching, with species like Black-naped Terns and Pacific Golden Plovers. 

Birds to Watch: 

Shorebirds and Migratory Birds: 

  • Black-naped Tern 
  • Mantanani Scoop Owl 
  • Nicobar Pigeon 
  • Lesser Frigatebird 
  • Curlew Sandpiper 

Why Visit: 

Mantanani Islands provide a perfect mix of coastal beauty and excellent birdwatching opportunities, making it ideal for a birding vacation.

Tempasuk Plains: Migratory Bird Haven 

Location: Kota Belud, Northern Sabah 

Key Highlights: 

  • Best for migratory birds and wetland species 
  • Open plains ideal for birdwatching during migration season 

The Tempasuk Plains are a birdwatching hotspot for migratory birds and wetland species. The wide, flat landscape makes it easy to spot large flocks of shorebirds during migration. 

Birds to Watch: 

Migratory and Wetland Birds: 

  • Black Faced Spoonbill 
  • Ruddy-breasted Crake 
  • Purple Heron 
  • Lesser Sand Plover 
  • Broad Billed Sandpiper 
  • Northern Shoveler 

Why Visit: 

Tempasuk Plains is a must-visit for birdwatchers looking to witness large flocks of migratory birds in an open, wetland environment.

Kota Kinabalu Wetland: Urban Birdwatching Close to Kota Kinabalu 

Location: Kota Kinabalu, West Coast of Sabah 

Key Highlights: 

  • Recognised under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands 
  • Wetland habitat close to the city 
  • Ideal for spotting migratory and wetland species 

Kota Kinabalu Wetland offers an urban birdwatching experience focused on wetland and migratory species. Its location makes it easily accessible for a quick birding trip. 

Birds to Watch: 

Wetland and Migratory Birds: 

  • Lesser Adjutant 
  • Purple Heron 
  • Whiskered Tern 
  • Black-winged Stilt 
  • Common Kingfisher 
  • Little Egret 

Why Visit: 

Kota Kinabalu Wetland is perfect for birdwatchers staying in Kota Kinabalu who want a convenient yet rewarding birding experience.

Tanjung Aru Beach and Prince Philip Park: Coastal and Urban Birdwatching 

Location: Kota Kinabalu, West Coast of Sabah 

Key Highlights: 

  • Coastal and urban bird species 
  • Ideal for spotting migratory shorebirds 
  • Adjacent to Prince Philip Park, a green urban space 

Tanjung Aru Beach and Prince Philip Park provide a relaxing birdwatching experience focused on coastal and migratory species. The adjacent green spaces attract a mix of birds, including shorebirds and urban species. 

Birds to Watch: 

Coastal and Migratory Birds: 

  • Pacific Reef Egret 
  • Nankeen Night Heron 
  • Common Sandpiper (migratory) 
  • Whimbrel (migratory) 
  • Grey-tailed Tattler (migratory) 

Mangrove Birds (nearby areas): 

  • Collared Kingfisher 
  • White-bellied Sea Eagle 
  • Common Iora 
  • Pied Thriller 

Urban Species: 

  • Asian Glossy Starling 
  • Yellow-vented Bulbul 
  • Spotted Dove 
  • White-breasted Woodswallow 

Why Visit: 

Tanjung Aru Beach offers a scenic and accessible birdwatching experience, perfect for birdwatchers looking to combine coastal and urban birding.

 

Remote Wilderness Birding (For Serious Birdwatchers) 

Maliau Basin: Remote Wilderness for Serious Birders 

Location: Southern Sabah 

Key Highlights: 

  • Pristine rainforest known as “Sabah’s Lost World” 
  • Home to rare and elusive species 
  • Best suited for experienced birdwatchers 

Maliau Basin, also known as “Sabah’s Lost World,” offers a remote and untouched birdwatching experience. The basin is home to rare and elusive species like the Black-and-crimson Pitta, making it ideal for serious birders seeking adventure. 

Birds to Watch: 

Forest Endemics: 

  • Bornean Bristlehead 
  • Black-and-crimson Pitta 
  • Crested Partridge 
  • White-crowned Shama 
  • Sunda Scimitar-Babbler 
  • Bulwer’s Pheasant 
  • Blue-winged Leafbird 

Other Notable Species: 

  • Bornean Ground Cuckoo 
  • Banded Broadbill 
  • Bornean Black Magpie 
  • Great Argus 

Why Visit: 

Maliau Basin is a challenging yet rewarding destination for birdwatchers looking to explore Borneo’s most remote wilderness.

Telupid Bird Hide: Spot the Bornean Peacock Pheasant 

Credit: Ron PudinPhoto Credit: Ron Pudin

Location: Telupid, Central Sabah 

Key Highlights: 

  • Only place to see the Bornean Peacock Pheasant 
  • Bird hide for quiet observation 

The Telupid Bird Hide is a hidden gem for birdwatchers seeking to spot the elusive Bornean Peacock Pheasant. The bird hide allows for patient observation of this rare species, making it a top destination for serious birders. 

Birds to Watch: 

Key Species: 

  • Bornean Peacock Pheasant 
  • Bornean Crested Fireback 
  • Short Tailed Babbler 
  • White-crowned Shama 
  • Bornean Banded Pitta 

Why Visit: 

The Telupid Bird Hide is a must-visit for birders looking to see the Bornean Peacock Pheasant, a species that is difficult to spot anywhere else.

 

Conclusion 

From the highland forests of Kinabalu Park to the coastal shores of Tanjung Aru Beach, Sabah offers a wide range of birdwatching experiences for enthusiasts of all levels.

Whether you're after rare endemics, like the Bornean Bristlehead, or casual birding by the sea, these top birding sites in Borneo promise to make your birdwatching adventure unforgettable.