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
- Lipad Waterfall Trail – Great for broadbills, pittas, and kingfishers.
- Mud Volcano Area – Offers open views for raptors, hornbills, and fruit-eating species.
- Riverbanks and Forest Edges – Ideal for spotting waterbirds and canopy specialists.
Notable Birds of Tabin Wildlife Reserve
Bornean Endemics & Specialties
- Bornean Bristlehead (Pityriasis gymnocephala)
- Blue-headed Pitta (Hydrornis baudii)
- Black-crowned Pitta (Erythropitta ussheri)
- Bornean Ground Cuckoo (Carpococcyx radiceus)
- White-crowned Shama (Copsychus stricklandii)
- Bornean Black Magpie (Platysmurus leucopterus aterrimus)
- Hose’s Broadbill (Calyptomena hosii)
- Bornean Wren-Babbler (Ptilocichla leucogrammica)
Other Iconic Species
- Storm’s Stork (Ciconia stormi) – globally endangered
- Great Argus (Argusianus argus) – renowned for its spectacular display
- Rhinoceros Hornbill (Buceros rhinoceros)
- Wrinkled Hornbill (Rhabdotorrhinus corrugatus)
- Black-and-yellow Broadbill (Eurylaimus ochromalus)
- Diard’s Trogon (Harpactes diardii)
- Rufous-collared Kingfisher (Actenoides concretus)
- Crested Fireback (Lophura ignita)
Best Time for Birding at Tabin Wildlife Reserve
Birding is enjoyable all year, but the dry months from March to October offer better accessibility and clearer conditions for photography. Early morning and late afternoon walks are the best times to observe active feeding and vocal displays.
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