Tabin Wildlife Reserve
Birding at Tabin Wildlife Reserve, Sabah – Discover Borneo’s Lowland Rainforest Birds
Tabin Wildlife Reserve – A Hidden Gem for Birding in Sabah
Situated in eastern Sabah near Lahad Datu, the Tabin Wildlife Reserve is one of Borneo’s largest and most biodiverse protected areas, covering over 120,000 hectares of lowland dipterocarp rainforest. Originally designated for wildlife conservation, Tabin has become a world-renowned birding destination, offering unmatched opportunities to encounter Borneo’s lowland rainforest species in a serene and pristine environment.
The reserve’s combination of forest trails, muddy mineral-rich “lipad” mud volcanoes, and riverine ecosystems makes it an exceptional site for both birdwatchers and wildlife photographers.
Why Tabin Wildlife Reserve is Perfect for Birding
Tabin’s diverse habitats attract over 300 bird species, including endemic and rare lowland birds. Its open forest edges and secondary growth areas often yield excellent sightings, while night drives and dawn walks reveal nocturnal and roosting species. For those seeking the ultimate birding and wildlife experience, Tabin offers a quieter and more intimate atmosphere compared to other reserves.
Top Birding Areas in Tabin
- Danum Valley Field Centre (DVFC) – A prime area for birding, with excellent trails through primary rainforest.
- Danum River & Nature Trails – Great for spotting kingfishers, broadbills, and babblers.
- Canopy Walkway (at Borneo Rainforest Lodge) – Offers eye-level views of hornbills, barbets, and canopy specialists.
Notable Birds of Danum Valley
Bornean Endemics & Specialties
- Bornean Bristlehead (Pityriasis gymnocephala) – the star species of Danum Valley
- Bornean Ground Cuckoo (Carpococcyx radiceus) – rare and elusive
- White-crowned Shama (Copsychus stricklandii)
- Bornean Black Magpie (Platysmurus leucopterus aterrimus)
- Blue-headed Pitta (Hydrornis baudii)
- Black-crowned Pitta (Erythropitta ussheri)
- Hose’s Broadbill (Calyptomena hosii)
- Bornean Wren-Babbler (Ptilocichla leucogrammica)
Other Iconic Species
- Great Argus (Argusianus argus) – magnificent display bird of the rainforest
- Crested Fireback (Lophura ignita)
- Rhinoceros Hornbill (Buceros rhinoceros)
- Helmeted Hornbill (Rhinoplax vigil) – critically endangered and rarely seen
- Black-and-yellow Broadbill (Eurylaimus ochromalus)
- Diard’s Trogon (Harpactes diardii)
- Rufous-collared Kingfisher (Actenoides concretus)
- Wallace’s Hawk-Eagle (Nisaetus nanus)
Best Time for Birding at Danum Valley
Birding is rewarding year-round, but the best period is April to October, when the weather is relatively dry, trails are accessible, and bird activity peaks. Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best opportunities for sightings and photography.
