There are two main regions for bird watching, Peninsular Malaysia, and the states for Sabah and Sarawak of the island of Borneo. Many birds are common to both geographic areas though some species, known as endemic, are unique to a certain location. Birding activities are concentrated in three distinctive habitat types - montane forests, lowland rainforests and mangroves. Montane forests generally locates above an elevation of 900 metres while lowland rainforests remain the most extensive habitat for over 200 species. The Mangrove forest ecosystem is a coastal habitat where salt and freshwater environment meet with coastline fringe.

To get an excellent birding experience, one must visit several sites in different ecological zones.

For the amateur bird watchers, there are three excellent bird watching sites within a few hours drive form Kuala Lumpur. Fraser’s Hill and Cameron Highlands both offer lush green surroundings with panoramic views and walkable hiking trails where bird life abound. For a pleasant day trip, check out the Kuala Selangor Nature Park, a mangrove swamp along the west coast that supports 130 birds species and some seasonal migrants including the rare Spoonbilled Sandpiper.

In addition, if time allows, one may also travel further inland into Malaysia’s premier national park, Taman Negara where dense lowland forests are home to over 200 bird species.

The Kota Kinabalu City Bird Sanctuary, a refuge and feeding ground for many species of resident birds and several migratory species from Northern Asia is easily accessible to visitors to the capital of Sabah on the island of Borneo.

The tropical climate of Malaysia allows bird watching to be a year-round activity. Rain usually falls heaviest from September to December in the west coast and from October to February in the east coast as well as in Sabah and Sarawak.

As with all wildlife, all possible care and respect is to be given to the birds and their habitats. Permits from the Forestry Department of the various states may be needed at some bird sanctuaries. Bird watchers are advised to check with their guides or tour agent.