Birding in Sabah and Danum Valley

The birds

Danum Valley and Sabah

Danum Valley anchors the lowland portion of a Sabah birding tour. The forest is dominated by massive emergent dipterocarps often rising 50 to 70 metres. This intact ecosystem supports 8 resident hornbill species. The Rhinoceros Hornbill is encountered frequently on most stays. The Bushy-crested Hornbill moves in noisy flocks of 5 to 15 birds and is a realistic target near the lodge grounds.

Look for Wreathed Hornbills at mature fruiting fig trees and listen for the Wrinkled Hornbill's distinctive wingbeats overhead. White-crowned Hornbills hunt through dense vines. The Helmeted Hornbill is heard every dawn and seen with luck; it needs the tallest trees to nest.

Bornean endemics and pittas

Bornean Bristleheads travel through Danum's canopy in fast, noisy family flocks. Listen for their grunts and chattering. The endemic Blue-headed Pitta is a highly reliable target on the lowland trails.

Sabah birding seasons

Danum Valley receives rain year-round. March to May is the prime birding window, with vocal residents establishing territories and displaying. Birding remains productive during the heavier November to February rains.

Nearby birding sites

Kinabatangan River

Explore the wetlands by motorised boat

Rainforest Discovery Centre

Photograph canopy flocks at eye level