Birdwatching in Malaysia 2024

Choose Malaysia if you want to see as many different kinds of birds as possible and meet colleagues from all over the world

Best time: March–June | September–November

Malaysia is a paradise for birders, photographers, and nature lovers. More than 750 bird species inhabit or migrate through Malaysia, whereas about 40 of them are considered endemic. The top birds of Malaysia include rhinoceros hornbills, Malayan peacock-pheasants, black pittas, dulit partridges, and others. There are many parks and reserves where birds are not so hidden from visitors by jungle canopies.

Almost every green location is a good spot for watching birds, but the highest density can be found in Cape Rachado Forest Reserve, Fraser's Hill, Bako National Park, and so on. Fraser's Hill is also famous for its annual International Bird Race in May or June, and Cape Rachado gathers birders for observing migrating long-running raptors between March and May or September and November.

In terms of migrating birds, mangrove forests are the best place to look for them. More than 45,000 birds can be found during migration in the Matang Mangrove Forest Reserve.

Practical info

What are some of the bird species found in Malaysia?

Malaysia has a rich bird fauna of over 750 species, with 40 endemics. Among the popular ones are rhinoceros hornbills, Malayan peacock-pheasants, black pittas, and dulit partridges. There are many more to see in the country.

Which sites are recommended for watching birds in Malaysia?

Malaysia has many great birdwatching sites. Among them are Cape Rachado Forest Reserve, Fraser's Hill, and Bako National Park. Other locations will also provide a birdwatcher with memorable moments, but with some reserves and parks offering better opportunities.

Which months are ideal for birdwatching in Malaysia?

The best time for birdwatching in Malaysia is either March-June or September-November. With ideal weather conditions and increased bird activity, these months provide an amazing birdwatching experience. Besides, long-running raptors can be seen migrating between Cape Rachado from March to May or September to November, and the International Bird Race can be witnessed in Fraser's Hill in May or June.

What is the significance of the International Bird Race in Fraser's Hill?

The Fraser's Hill International Bird Race is a yearly event held in May or June where competing participants from all over the world try to spot the most species of birds in Fraser's Hill. The competition serves as an excellent opportunity for birders to glimpse rare and endemic bird species in the area of the race.

What is Matang Mangrove Forest Reserve known for?

Matang Mangrove Forest Reserve is recognized as an important location for bird migration. During this period, over 45,000 migratory birds can be observed in the park. Moreover, migrating long-running raptors fly through Cape Rachado between March and May or September to November. Mangrove forests are the best places to visit in Malaysia for bird enthusiasts.