Sabah is a destination renowned among nature lovers for its flora and fauna, and ultimately for its bird life. With a vast array of habitats with their own specialized birds, Sabah is a haven for birding enthusiasts.

In Borneo, a total of 622 resident and migratory species of bird, with 32 endemic species have been recorded. 4 of these endemics are found on either Sabah’s hill slopes or in its montane forest. Mount Kinabalu is regarded as a distribution centre for all except for one of Borneo’s montane birds.

Among the most sought after endemic species are the Whitehead’s Trogon and Whitehead’s Broadbill, the Blue-headed Pitta and the vividly coloured Blue-banded Pitta, the large and distinctly coloured Bornean Ground Cuckoo, the rare and ungainly Bornean Bristlehead, as well as the Golden-naped Barbet with its signature trilling call.

Thanks to Sabah’s good network of transportation, all major birding destinations are easily accessible. Cozy accommodations are also available in backpackers’ lodges, chalets and hotels.