Denis Degullacion | Birding | Digiscoping | Photography |

Tambunan Birding 2012 with CK and Jonathan

2012-01-12T21:37:00.006+08:00

The Tambunan Rafflesia Park forest were fruiting and this attracted some attention and interest of the birds. The Ashy Drongo was the last bird that I managed to take before making it a day.

I have yet to get a better shot of this Adult Blue and White flycatcher.

This Mugimaki Flycatcher was so active that it annoyed all of us. It would not sit still even for just a minute. I was not happy with this picture but Jonathan had a sharp picture of him.

With abandon fruits available, most birds were so preoccupied with eating that it did not bother to get close to them just like this Endemic Bornean Flowerpecker (formerly known as Black-sided Flowerpecker)

Its quite common to see the Chestnut Crested Yuhina around the park but not an easy bird to photograph. To ensure a sharp and detailed pictures of this bird, one has to invest a prime lens or you can also ask the bird not to move about during taking its picture.

Happy Birding.

Bornean Treepie

2012-01-08T16:03:00.005+08:00

Large and noisy bird but not easy to photograph. I forgot to post this last year hopefully you all will enjoy it.

Happy Birding.

Common Kestrel - falco tinnunculus

2012-01-08T12:41:00.003+08:00

Another great find to start the new year. However this was the only picture that I managed to get yesterday.
The Common Kestrel is not common to Sabah Borneo and its considered uncommon winter visitor. This was sighted around housing area and the pictures suggest it was sitting on a construction debris but nevertheless it "Majestic" posture really take away your breath.

Hopefully it will continue visiting us in the near future.

Happy Birding.

New Year with Javan Sparrow - padda oryzivora

2012-01-08T12:15:00.007+08:00

Native to Java and Bali but never really populated in Kota Kinabalu - Sabah Borneo.
However it was a delightful find to start the new year 2012.

Happy Birding.

Black-headed Gull

2011-12-31T15:58:00.009+08:00

A fitting closing for 2011 year. Black-headed Gull only seen near islands but Tanjung Aru proves that it still has some charms that this bird chooses to browse around along its shoreline. It will a miracle to see them again next year.

Happy Holidays and Welcome New Year 2012.

Happy Birding.

Rail and Crake

2011-12-17T15:42:00.005+08:00

White-browed crake - porzana cinerea

Buff-banded Rail - gallirallus phillipensis

Finally before the year ends, a decent picture of this birds.

Happy Birding.

Pied Avocet - recurvirostra avosetta

2011-12-03T20:51:00.004+08:00

A lifer that made my closing year a memorable one.

Happy Birding.

Hodgson Hawk Cuckoo

2011-10-25T23:15:00.003+08:00

This was my best ever capture of this bird. Wish it could stay longer for me to enjoy its beauty but nevertheless it gave me an opportunity that will imprint in my mind forever. Thank you Mother Nature for this gift.

Happy Birding.

Maliau Basin - The Lost World 15-18 Sept

2011-09-20T12:06:00.009+08:00

Female Blue-headed Pitta (pitta buadii)

This was the star of the expedition to Maliau Basin. Despite the heavy activity of leaches it did not damper our spirit to wait for hours and hours until this Female and Male show up from a distance on a high tree covered with ferns.

The word pitta is derived from the Telugu language of Andra Pradesh in India and is a generic local name for small birds.

Male Blue-headed Pitta (pitta buadii)
The male was so fast moving in and out of the undergrowth that it was just impossible to photograph it. Anyways this was the best I could manage.
But surely I will return to this place very-very soon.
Below were the only bird photography that I can managed because most of the time was used to track the Pitta's.

Crimson-breasted Flowerpecker

Dark-sided Flycatcher (muscicapa sibirica)

Whiskered Treeswift - (hemiprocne comata-comata)

Chestnut-breasted Malkoha (phaenicophaeus curvirostris singularis)

Happy birding.

RED-NAPED TROGON

2011-09-10T00:05:00.002+08:00

One of the beauty of the rainforest. The forest is just not the same without them.
Borneo is blessed with 6 species.

Happy Birding.

Woodpecker - Sunda Pygmy

2011-08-05T16:47:00.004+08:00

Sunda Pygmy Woodpecker.
One of the most common woodpecker in Borneo island. Even though considered common little is known about this creature welfare in this island. This Female was busy darting from all sides just to make sure the youngs (2 of them) get enough nutrition everyday.
The Male is normally has a tinge of red on the upper head and sometimes it will be difficult to tell them apart.

Happy Birding

Green Broadbill

2011-07-17T00:16:00.006+08:00

Green Broadbill - calyptomena viridis Male
Taken with Kowa TSN603 + Canon G9
This was the best picture that I could mustered after so many attempt. However I could have taken more with the digiscope but the battery went dead on me and I had to switch to DSLR Nikon D300 with Sigma 150-500mm.
My apologies for the poor shoots.

Happy Birding.

Whistling Thrush

2011-06-01T00:19:00.006+08:00

Bornean Whistling Thrush - Endemic of Borneo

I really wanted to get a good shot of this bird and finally at last. But still miss the female.

Happy Birding

Pipit

2011-04-16T21:33:00.011+08:00

Paddyfield Pipit - anthus rufulus
Borneo has 9 species out of the 66 worldwide (ref: S.Myers)

Happy Birding.

Rafflesia Centre birds - Crocker Range

2011-04-10T22:24:00.011+08:00

Juvenile Blyth's Hawk Eagle

To bird for mountain birds in Borneo, you have two choices of area. The first is Mt Kinabalu where it's a must for all birders and second is the Rafflesia Centre at Gunung Emas or Alap. If you do not have enough time to spare then the choice to choose is Rafflesia Center because its only 1 hour drive from the city.
However there is no trail to take when birding around the Rafflesia Centre, most of the birding is done around the road side and be advise of the in-coming traffic. Weather is also a factor and most of the mountains in Borneo will received rains most of the times especially in the afternoon.
It rain and rain and when it finally stop, it was only 2 hours window and got only this beauties.

Cinereous bulbul

Ochraceous Bulbul

Cinereous bulbul

Happy Birding

RED AVADAVAT

2011-04-09T14:36:00.008+08:00

Red Avadavat - Female amandava amandava

A morning that was rewarded with the appearance of this odd but highly celebrated bird since its arrival 2 months ago. It was believe to be introduce or escapee bird in the early days (yet to be determine).
A lifer for all who have never seen it in Borneo-Sabah. Hope they will stay and multiply.

A moulting male

Happy Birding

Shrike and Thrush and others

2011-04-04T14:45:00.007+08:00

Mugimaki Flycather - Female

Yesterday did some birding with Karim@sinooorita at Kundasang area. Went looking for the Long-tailed Shrike and upon arriving at the designated area, we spotted two birds flying in a distance but alas we could not get closer at this was on a private land.

We have to be contented and try our best for a good picture even for an ID shot.

Luckily for us, the birds seem to notice our despair and eventually came closer and closer and got some decent shots. And as time flies by, we decided to check out for the Everett Thrush at Masilau Park (which is an extension of Mt Kinabalu) and it only took us 20 minutes to reach it from Kundasang. We did not get the Everett's Thrush but here are few pictures for your enjoyment.

White-browed Shortwing - Female

She came out from one of the parking lot and darting from one place to another trying to avoid us. Eventually I got some decent picture of her but still can be better....

Eyed-browed Thrush - Turdus obscurus

This was a nice find but would not cooperate. It was so shy that it did not came out the whole day. I could see it through the Bins but it was just that.

Long-tailed Shrike - anius schach tricolor

Happy Birding

ShortWings Part 2

2011-04-04T09:32:00.003+08:00

Female White-browed Shortwing - Brachypteryx montana cruralis

Continuation of this chapter, White-browed Shortwing also known Blue Shortwing, Himalayan

Blue Shortwing or Indigo-blue Shortwing. My last attempt to take picture of this bird was quite a feat. Its a very active bird that does not stop for any picture taking. However the male was not around nevertheless I am very happy with this.

Happy birding

My Garden Birds 2

2011-03-27T20:56:00.006+08:00

A young Brown-throated Sunbird - anthreptes malacensis malacensis

It was a lucky day when this Brown-throated Sunbird was friendly enough for me to take a decent pictures.
I never actually got this close until yesterday. My best attempt of this species was actually a Temmink's Sunbirds and were really elated with my own work and this time Brown-throated is the second photography that I am happy to share with. This time I used the D300 attach to Kowa TSN603 and was experimenting with ISO and got some interesting result. But still have not come up with the best combinations. If there anyone out there has the same setup, please come forward and share your techniques.

Happy Birding

My Garden Birds

2011-03-25T22:23:00.006+08:00

I wanted to practice more with my picture taking especially when you are digiscoping with D300 and the only way was putting some bait and it worked.

Happy Birding

This two were quite obliging.

Scaly Breasted Bulbul - Pycnonotus squamatus webberi

2011-03-07T12:21:00.004+08:00

Finally got my latest bulbul picture. I have been waiting for this moment.

Happy Birding

A day under the Sun - Dicaeum monticolum - Male

2011-03-07T12:00:00.005+08:00

Borneon Flowerpecker - endemic to Mt Kinabalu.

Took this with D300 attach with Kowa TSN603.

Happy Birding

Hide and Seek

2011-02-27T23:04:00.006+08:00

Had a nice day yesterday with Karim aka sinooorita and this Chestnut Hooded Laughing Thrush was playing hide and seek. It was challenge trying to photograph it with Kowa TSN 603, adapter FSL for Nikon and D300. Manual focusing and adjusting the AV + and - was really a feat. Anyway I was really happy with this experiment.

Happy Birding.

Baya Weaver - scope with Kowa TSN603 with D300

2011-02-24T12:22:00.004+08:00

Baya Weaver - Ploceus philippinus philippinus

It been a slow month for me in terms of birding so decided to check out my hometown, Sandakan (famous for its Orang Utan Centre, Rainforest Discovery Centre, Sukau, Gomantong and Turtle island) but it turn out the weather was not that great. There were some occasional rain showers that I thought would not affect my birding but no luck. It started to rain from 10 am and only stop at 2pm and this was at RDC. Had to abandon RDC and called my brother Neil if there is any place that worthwhile checking out. And he mentioned this Baya Weaver nesting around his housing estate area but not sure if it is still around. Well luck was still smiling for me and took this shoot (not to brag about) and I had only like 5 second window. It was standing there about 50 meters away but could not get near it because of the thick vegetation. My last sighting was in 2009 and missed it last year.

Hoping to go back again maybe next month....

Happy birding

Swift

2011-02-12T23:11:00.004+08:00

Swift sps..Collocalia esculenta affinis

I was never good in identifying swift when they are airborne or even clinging on the walls just like this one.
Took this at Kinabalu Park office area and wanted to take more pictures but the rain started to come down and it rain the whole day.

At last, I was advise to ask Mr Alim Buin (birder) and a senior park ranger from Kinabalu Park and he confirmed that most of the swift that is flying around the park office are

Glossy Swiflet Collocalia esculenta affinis. Thank you to those who help me to identify.

Happy Birding

Eurasian Teal

2011-01-26T22:24:00.005+08:00

This two ducks got so much attention from photographers and birders that it stayed until the male plumage has turn to its breeding feathers. This has never happen here before and it is indeed a blessing and Amen to that.
Will they return again? Only time will tell, Selamat Jalan and safe journey.

-

Happy Birding.

GREETINGS AND CLOSING YEAR 2010

2010-12-24T10:13:00.003+08:00

**TO ALL READERS AND FRIENDS WISHING ALL OF YOU**

"A BLESSED CHRISTMAS AND A PEACEFUL / PROSPEROUS NEW YEAR"

Will be back next year

Happy Birding.

White-bellied Sea Eagle

2010-12-19T11:30:00.008+08:00

A new generation? Should we be happy or are we going to see another life that its future is in question. This was taken last April 2011 at a friend car park.
The young fledgling has flown by now and have not return this tree for anything. Maybe it too senses that it should find another sanctuary.

This adult stayed back and was looking out for any threat while the other was out for hunting food.

Male and Female preparing their morning ritual, taking care of their young.

The White-bellied Sea Eagle is the largest of all eagles here in Borneo island. Way back in the early 1970's you can actually see them soaring in numbers around the bay of Sandakan and Kota Kinabalu. But their numbers are declining (I do not have any data to support this) but the numbers are not often seen as in the early days. When the height of the fishing season is in full force the birds will come out in big swarm's and indicating there will be a bountiful harvest, enough to go around.

May they return again.

Happy birding.

Likas Birds

2010-11-13T22:52:00.009+08:00

Olive-backed Sunbird / nectarinia jugularis

Been a slow week and today was my first birding for November after settling down with my new full-time job. My birding spot this time was at Likas Sport Complex, especially the jogging area and the lawn bowling area.
At the entrance there is a Coral Tree and it is flowering. This make the birding easier since the Coral Tree has a lot of nectar and also attracts the insects towards the flowers. So I choose a shaded area and waited. Earlier prior to this, a birder Karim @sinooorita took some picture of a Boobok Owl also known as Brown Hawk-Owl at the back of the jogging pathway.

Female Brown-throated ? maybe...

Brown-throated Sunbird / anthreptes malacensis

Grey-rumped Treeswift / hemiprocne longipennis

Pied Triller / lalage nigra

Happy Birding.

Shortwings

2010-10-29T21:20:00.005+08:00

Male

Female

Shortwings are not that easy to see or find around Kinabalu Park but this time both pairs came out for this picture. Alim Buin one of the senior park ranger told me about this pair one day earlier but it rain so heavy that we could only see the birds hoping in and out from the shrubs.
Both birds were so active that I can only managed an ID picture for now. Will try again next visit.

Happy birding.

Borneo Parrots

2010-10-29T19:23:00.003+08:00

Blue-crowned Hanging Parrot
(loriculus galgulus)

Worldwide c.332 species, 5 in Borneo. Tiny green parrot with blue crown-patch and crimson bib.
Usually solitary or in pairs. Fast flying and feeds on seeds, nectar, flowers, buds and fruit.
The dextrous bill and tongue sometime use as third foot and the feet are zygodactylic (the fourth toe is reversible, both these features allowing great agility. All species are cavity nesters.

Happy birding.

Perigrine Falcon

2010-10-29T16:28:00.004+08:00

Peregrine Falcon / falco peregrinus

This bird apparently was stocking itself for a long journey. Luckily it made so much noise that it gave its position. This was crop heavily to see what was the prey and judging from the feathers falling down from the tree, a very unlucky Pink-necked Pigeon was the menu.

Happy birding.

RDC- Rainforest Discovery Centre (Sandakan-Borneo Sabah)

2010-10-22T13:14:00.010+08:00

Crested Serpent Eagle / spilornis cheela

Friends, its been a great Bird festival this year. Everyone seem to agree. Including the birds.

Here are few pictures to share and enjoy.

Copper-throated Sunbird / leptocoma calcostetha

Juvenile White Crown Shama / copsychus stricklandii

Rufous-collared Kingfisher / actenodies concretus , just patiently waiting to be photograph.

It was a hot day (2nd day of bird festival) Rufous-winged Philentoma / philentoma pyrhoptera having a bath.

Greater Racket-tailed Drongo / dicrurus paradiseus, posing but flew quickly when it was attracting a crowd.

Ruddy Kingfiher / halcyon coromanda

The prize bird this year. Birders with or without digiscope just could not stay away from the site it was perching, hoping to get a glimpse. Even professional and amateur photographer flock to get a picture. It was all worth the waiting.

Crimson Sunbird / aethopyga siparaja

This was photograph outside the visitor building of Sepilok Orang Utan Centre. Its a personal achievement for me because I can never get it with digiscope. Use Nikon D3oo with Sigma 70-300mm APO lens.

Black and Yellow Broadbill / eurylaimus ochromalus

This is a female, both sexes looks similar but can be differentiate with the female does not have complete breast-band.

On a final note, any one who are interested to visit Rainforest Discovery Centre especially birders and photographer. I can be contact as per my contact reference in my blog.

Happy Birding.

Jan Job Van Vulpen - Tabin Excursion

2010-10-12T19:23:00.006+08:00

Diard's Trogon

Jan and wife (both formerly guide groups to South America and Africa)

Now enjoying life and doing what they like most, traveling and enjoying Borneo as much as they can. Jan wanted to see a Pitta or Trogon and their wish came true. I wish they will be able to remember my blog and write me back.

Wild-orang Utan - adult

This White-Crown Horbill was sighted at the back of the Riverlodge. But it was still shy and did not really gave us much time to photograph it.

The Black and Crimson Pitta that finally responded to my call. It was quite a sight especially if there were two of them calling back. But I only managed to photograph one of them.

Vekvet-fronted Nuthatch

Happy Birding

2010-10-08T20:09:00.004+08:00

Dark-sided flycatcher

I am a dire situation here. Got this flycatcher few days ago but could not figure out which this one belong to. Thanks to some friends, it is now known.

Happy birding.

September 2010 collections

2010-10-05T20:31:00.009+08:00

Bar-winged Flycatcher Shrike - hemipus picatus

This are few pictures that I managed to document for this month birding. Enjoy.

Mountain-tailorbird - phyllergates cucullatus

A better picture this time - Chestnut-hooded Laughing Thrush (endemic)

One of my favorite flycatchers. Little-pied flycatcher

White-throated Fantail

Grey-throated Babbler - stachyris nigriceps

Happy Birding.

2010-09-03T12:34:00.001+08:00

Balung Eco-Resort and Tawau Hills Park

2010-08-27T15:35:00.008+08:00

This beautiful orchid was blooming at Tawau Hills Park located 24Km from Tawau town.

Puan Rohaya and Cik Roslina with a Tawau Hills Park Ranger showing the album of orchids and other plants and insects found around the area.
Puan Rohaya and Cik Roslina is the price winner of a lucky draw during the Matta Tourism Expo and their win brings them to Sabah - Tawau to Balung Eco-Resort and Tawau Hills Park.

Chestnut breasted Malkoha sighted just outside my accommodation.

This Grey-bellied Spider hunter was so quick that I can only managed to get the lower part of its features.

Orange-bellied Flowerpecker calling for its mate in the early morning hour.

A flock of Chestnut Munia feeding along the road to the Tawau Airport which note the end of my journey with Puan Rohaya and Cik Roslina.

A Black Shoulder Kite (correction) flying alongside is Pacific Swallow, which the former was sighted carrying twigs to build a nest just next to the road side. I initially wrote peregrine falcon..apology to all readers.

Happy Birding.

The Shorebirds are back. sighted with Neil Degullacion

2010-07-27T18:56:00.011+08:00

Took some advise from another birder and check out my usual place to see if the shorebirds are back..this are some pictures that I would like to share. This time my brother from Sandakan Neil Degullacion took some time off from work and join me to search for them. He was also excited to spot them too.

A Whiskered Tern decided to take some rest before starting to fly again.

A juvenile Whiskered Tern

Whiskered Tern

White-winged Black Tern

Happy Birding.

Mr Frankie - Beastmaster JC friend

2010-07-24T13:11:00.009+08:00

Now you see it now you don't..that how it is with this picture. Eventually it appears....."crocodylus porosus" seen sometimes during the night or day river cruises at Kinabatangan. But one particular croc's that will really impress you is Frankie...almost a resident of Barefoots lodge. It will only listen to one person call that is JC - Barefoot lodge supervisor. At first I did not believe him but on this night occasion he demonstrated his skill and by uttering some words and this "Little" crocodile came out from the water and approach the jetty. Fortunately the jetty was more than 2 meter in height. This picture is taken with a zoom 70-300 mm and at the time I did not have a wide angle lens or kit lens so you can just imagine the actual size of this beautiful beast. I was almost lost for words when it appears and almost so obediently listen to JC's commands. There was one time JC ask Frankie to open his mouth so that I can photograph it but I was slow and miss the whole thing. And Frankie was rewarded with a fish head after doing this trick. Visit www.barefootsukau.com for rates and other packages.

Happy Birding.

Birding with Hans Moller, family and Ms Adithy

2010-07-21T23:02:00.014+08:00

Reticulated Python - about 3meters. I think it has its meal for the evening.

Our birding journey started from Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary, however it was a slow morning and after lunch we departed to Gomantong Cave. Unexpectedly I did not take any pictures during this period. So I can only give out the list that we have heard or seen : Crested Serpent Eagle, Rufous Piculet, Chestnut-winged Babbler, Buff-rumped Woodpeacker, Pied Fantail, Black-nest Swift, Red-eye Bulbul, House Swallow, Bat Hawk, Red leaf monkeys. Black and Crimson Pitta. We continued our journey to Barefoot lodge and check-in. After dinner it was time for night cruise and above the python was the first to greet us and the rest as follows.....

Buffy Fish Owl

Two Blue-eared perching side by side.

That was for the night, continued the next day with the following below:-

Oriental Darter

Malaysian Blue Flycatcher

Pied Hornbill

Orange-backed Woodpecker

Black and Red Broadbill

Smooth Otter

Giant Red Flying Squirrel - ready for its gliding at RDC. Its one of the highlights attractions at RDC besides the birding. You will be entertain.

Here's one trying to get to a higher positions before gliding down. It seems that the giants need to plan before gliding or they might end up stuck for a wrong decision.

The ever shy and elusive Rufous Collared Kingfisher. It only finally came out when I played the mp3 for a good 5 minutes and stayed enough for this picture.

Black and Red Broadbill - one of my favorites. The red coulor is just awesome on this bird.

Giant Squirrel - ratufa affinis sandakaninses, it lost it's composure and trying hard to find it back..Got Cha..

Banded Broadbill

This was taken at Trogon Tower at RDC - Raffles Malkoha

Green Iora

Happy Birding.

Nabawan-Melian Birds

2010-07-21T16:56:00.014+08:00

Nabawan is a town located in Interior Division of Sabah, east Malaysia on the island of Borneo. Its population was estimated to be around 23,890 in 2000, and is almost entirely ethnic Murut. Nabawan covers an area of 6089km². Situated in the southern part of Sabah, it is bordered by Tawau and Kinabatangan district to the east, Keningau and Tenom district to the west and Kalimantan, Indonesia to the south.

One of the Pitcher plants sp.. found on of our tracks. Yet to be identified. There are also climbers as well, which means they adapt both ground and trees.

This river was all red in colour and this must have been the tannin derive from the dead leaves and roots that which is quite a big amount covering the grounds and the river bed. Look quite eerie if the go deeper into the darker area of the river.

This butterfly got a liking of the salt from handling the lens..or is it the camera? Nikon what say you???

The clouds were bleeding when we got out from the jungle one evening, spectacular red which was quite a bit dramatic as this sand dune below. One might think that there is desert dune here in Borneo.

Dennis Ikon aka Beast Master, he is responsible for the mammals counts / survey. A trustworthy friend in the jungle.

This Black-winged Shrike was the first bird in the morning welcoming us on one of our bird and mammals survey.

Buff-vented Bulbul

Grey-bellied Bulbul

Female Scarlet-rumped Trogon

Brown Barbet

Greater Green Leafbird

Female Yellow-rumped Flowerpecker

Yellow-rumped Flowerpecker - endemic to Borneo Island.

Happy Birding.

Birds of Telupid-Taviu

2010-07-07T14:13:00.008+08:00

The Crimson-winged Woodpecker - was very quite until it started to peck the timber that it gave away it's location. It was fast moving in all sides of this tree until it found a bunch of ants and started eating them.

The Green Large Pigeon was trying to hide itself from me. I have to zoom in to get a better view of this bird but I lost the clarity and dept using about 30% zoom on this bird. Anyway better than nothing.

Another picture of the Crimson-winged Woodpecker and lucky me it was quite near to get this close-up with the Kowa TSN603 - 20x wide angle / L16 Nikon Coolpix.

This little one was really trying my patience and only managed to get this shot. Tried many attempt but well another time again...

Taken with Minolta 500mm mirror lens - Frank Gardner

2010-06-26T20:35:00.008+08:00

Got some pictures that I would like my readers to give comments on the mirror lens that is used for taking this pictures. You could say it was luck or faith to meet this gentlemen that gave me another reason to live my life the way I wanted (with God grace). He inspire me to see life further from it's context. Hardship is just another illusion for failure if we succumb to it.

Mr Frank Gardner is a journalist and a correspondent for BBC Security Correspondent.

Mr Gardner also the author of Sand and Blood *best seller ( a story how he and his cameraman was gunned down during their work as journalist in Riyadh, Saudi Arab. He was shoot six times but miraculously survived the ordeal. However he needs a wheel chair or supporter to move around this days but this has not deter his determination to live as he has lived before.

With his courtesy and kindness he gave some shots for memories.

Little Pied Flycatcher - common resident of Mt Kinabalu

Chestnut Hooded Laughing Thrush - Mt Kinabalu endemic

Bornean Whistler - Mt Kinabalu endemic

All the shots was taken with Sony Alpha DSLR / Minolta 500mm mirror lens

Happy Birding.

Ochraceous Bulbul - criniger ochraceus

2010-06-22T11:18:00.006+08:00

Common resident at Mt Kinabalu and Borneo mountains and hills. One of three common mountain bulbul (Ashy and Pale-faced)

Digiscope with Kowa TSN603 attachment TSN-Cm3-N for DSLR and Nikon D300

Long and Slow Week

2010-06-21T23:01:00.007+08:00

The weeks were slow in birding and here are some shoots that I managed to get.

Pied flycatcher just drop from nowhere. But did not wait long enough to get a better shot of him.

This Eyed-browed flycatcher was seen sitting on the same place as last year. But maybe not the same bird I think? Anyway it was quite obliging.

Rain just stop around the city and this Little Green Heron was trying to balance itself to fish.

After the rain some of this birds (Scaly-breasted Munia) was busy drying themselves and trying to resume their meals as it was almost 6pm when I took this last bird flying away.

A juvenile Pied Thriller was trying to find a tree to perch but could not find a near tree and end up resting nest to me. But it was a quick sudden landing that i did not get a sure shot on it. What a big miss..

Rufous Night Heron and this Black Cap Night Heron was busy flying back and forth collecting nest material. It was about 7am and they were seem to be unperturbed with me presence. I think they know that I was quite far from the nest and it was quite a spectacle to see them both on the same tree trying to build the best spot on the mangrove tree near by.

Happy Birding.

Japan 17-24 May 2010. Part 3

2010-06-06T20:40:00.005+08:00

The two birds ( i mean the feathered ones) was getting freebies from this 2 girls, the Black-tailed Gull and Black-headed Gull (juve) at Ueno public park lake.

Great Egret that is found through out the year.

Rock Dove - feral variant

Black-tailed Gull winters locally in N. Japan but fairly common in Central and South Japan. Frequents parks (ref: Mark Brazil - Birds of East Asia)

Large-billed Crow, a common bird but not in numbers. Seen it flying around rice fields, mountains, lakes and city. Split has been proposed, giving Japanese Crow c.japonensis (including connectens and osai) and Large-billed Crow c.macrorhynchos (including mandschuricus and colonorum)

Eastern Spot-billed Duck (anas zonorhyncha) having a nap. Formerly considered a race of Spot-billed Duck a.poecilorhyncha and also known as Chinese Spot-billed Duck.

Japan 17-24 May 2010. Part 2

2010-06-04T17:27:00.007+08:00

Ueno public park, very close from the train station. Besides this Spot-billed Duck, I spotted the Black-tailed Gull swooping across this lake and saw an individual resting on a floater. Took some picture of the Gull and sighted Grey Heron, Straited Heron, Great Egret and Black Headed Gull (which was in the middle of the lake and could not take it's picture - unfortunately). And Yes Eurasian Tree Sparrow..they where everywhere.

The Black-tailed Gull taking rest on the railings. What a difference?

Saigo-san, one of the revered figurine in Japan History. I was told that he played an important role to build the New Japan Era.

Japan 17-24 May 2010. Part 1

2010-05-31T00:18:00.013+08:00

This strange signboard belongs to Asahi Beer Company. The beer is No.1 in Japan and taste good too.

The famous Nagamise Street of Asakusa. Tourist all over the world flock at this street to look for handicraft or something from Japan to bring back home. This street also leads to Senso-ji, one of the oldest temple and undergoing major renovation when I visited it (the background is the temple). I bought my Yukata (Japanese pajama) here.

Yet to be completed New Japan Tower. Replacing the old. This tower will have a height of 600m.

Tsukuba railway station. Latest addition to Tsukuba prefecture and it is also direct from Tokyo.
Expected to bring more tourism, domestic and international alike. I took the train from this Station and return the same way. My Yutakari-kun (hotel or resthouse) is almost 1 hour drive from this station. Very convenient if you want to stay at the country side especially the Tsukuba mountain park. This moutain range is only 877 meters but the birding and vegetation is a delight to visitors. Unfortunately I came when the birding was slow and flowers are gone and replaced by young new leaves after the winter season.

Mantanani Island Trip 7-9 April 2010

2010-04-12T17:09:00.005+08:00

This a long over due posting. Firstly I take this opportunity to thank Mr Octavious owner of Mari-Mari Resort for inviting us to do a bird survey at both of Mantanani Islands. We were welcome with warmth atmosphere by the resort staff. The survey group consists of C.K. Leung, Naseri @Jason Bugay, Thomas Foo, John Prudente and myself.

It was a fruitful trip and our focal point of this survey was to determine the Mantanani Owl could be sighted every night if there is any birder who would like to bird at this island. I did not managed to get any picture of the owl but that will be the next group ( 11-13 May) task.

Cheers and happy birding.

Waiting for the boat to take us back to the resort. There was no real jetty to disembark or embark from the boat. It was best to wait low tide.

Taking a break and look out for Metallic Pigeon. It's the highest point of the Manatanani Kecil island and also serve as the mobile phone reception to make calls

View from Mantanani Kecil Island (background is the Mari Mari Mantanani Resort with big hump) The mari-mari resort is on the left.

Female Blue-rock Thrush. One of the birds sighted at big island. It was standing right in the middle of the village field. Did not even bother me when I came as close as 3 meters to it. Unfortunately the male was not sighted

Peregrine Falcon - a visitor. This guy was determine to get his meal before the sunset. It was him that made the birding harder on the smaller island. The bird was seen everyday when we were there.

Likas Wetlands Drying Up

2010-03-21T14:08:00.004+08:00

Drying Pond

Great Egret

Black-back Swamphen

Purple Heron

Black-back Swamphen

It's been a while birding around Likas Wetland, left the house at 0600 am this morning. Visibility was marred by heavy haze and the birds was not that many in the pond. Despite the numbers this are some pictures to share.

Happy Birding.

Unidentified Subject

2010-03-09T23:46:00.004+08:00

While walking back to my car this curious bird was turning leaves looking for something or insect. Well not sure what it was really trying to do but caught my attention and without hesitation set up my digiscope gear and took some hasty pictures. I have yet to figure out which bird is this.

Anyone welcome to id it.

Happy birding.

Sukau-Bilit Feb 28/March 1 (3days 2nights)

2010-03-09T16:08:00.003+08:00

After the flood last year, the Kinabatangan river suffers some of the worst after floods effect. I was told by our boatmen Joel, that the width of the river has encroached more than 20 feet into the main land.

After check-in into our rooms, we head for the lover part of Kinabatangan after hearing that the elephants was around the south of Sukau village. The boat ride took us almost an hour before we got the sight of the Bornean Pygmy Elephants. It was an awesome sight to watch them feeding and trumpeting while having their tea break. It was almost half past five and we were told to make back to the lodge before it became too dark. We did manage to sight a lesser adjutant stork, a couple of rhinoceros hornbill, a couple of pied hornbill, few numbers of brahminy kite, a few numbers of oriental darter and 1 salt water crocodile( 2 feet long).

The next day, we took the earliest river cruise and the first bird was a roller, white-fronted falconet, blue-eared kingfisher, stork-billed kingfisher, pied fantail, black and yellow broadbill, a juvenile brahminy kite, perrigrine falcon, lesser adjutant stork and it was time to return to the lodge for our breakfast.

As the sun start to rise higher, so did the temperature. We decided to take rest for the rest of the morning. Later in the afternoon continue our birding to the ox-bow lake and we started from the river and then do a loop to reach the lodge. It was a quite afternoon however we managed to spot the black and yellow broadbill, common iora, yellow vented bulbul (commonly sighted), white crowned shama, chestnut wing babbler and the asian paradise flycatcher.

Happy birding.

Chestnut Wing Babbler

Black and Yellow Broadbill

Peregrine Falcon

Out of Boredom

2010-02-23T22:38:00.008+08:00

Today's weather was hot as the previous weeks. It seems the dry season is coming earlier than anticipated. I heard that some areas are hit badly and water rationing are been applied.
Despite the heat, I decided to check out Sugud area (where we sighted the Banded Kingfisher in 2009) which was 30 minutes drive from my house. Surprisingly the road has been upgraded to certain percentage. It will be nice if the authorities will completely sealed it by this year.
Sugud was silent when I arrived but did sighted a verditer, hairy back bulbul, cream vented bulbul, red crown barbet (juvenile), crimson breasted flowerpecker, orange-bellied flowerpecker, Greater Leafbird, velvet nuthatch, little spider hunter, crested serpent eagle, blue-throated bee-eater, grey-rumped treeswift, chestnut bellied malkoha, However none of this were photograph unfortunately.

Birding was slowing at Sugud so decided to drive to Sugud and check out the waders and called Karim @sinooorita if he is birding there. Luckily for me he was there. Got some Kentish plover, a wimbrel, greater sand plover, lesser sand plover. Tried digiscoping them this was the result. After spending almost 1 hour under the sun, I decided to move to Tanjung Aru Beach. The Blue Naped Parrot was there as usual and took some pictures of other birds too.

The day ended with a very hot piercing weather and I was happy to be back home away from the scourging sun.

Happy Birding.

Semi leucistic Pacific Swallow

2010-02-08T18:43:00.004+08:00

I just want to add on the subject "Semi Leucistic Pacific Swallow" posted by Sifu Wong at site www.borneobirds.blogspot.com . I was also curious about this bird and I would like to thank you Sifu Wong on the really informative information on the difference on the bird from being an albino.

I took this picture at the RDC buidling as when it was trying to get a rest on the air-condition.

Happy birding.

Lifer 2010

2010-02-08T16:51:00.007+08:00

This two lifer is a gift from above, my morale on birding was a bit low because we are not getting our normal birding work (assignments, as a freelance guide) as compare to last year. Until I received an SMS text from a good friend Sifu CK on the Common Coot. I was at Sandakan that time handling the Taiwan group. I was revitalised instantly with that wonderful news. So can't wait to take my scope once I get back to Kota Kinabalu.

This vagrant (coot) look like its still a juvenile because the frontal shield is not fully develop yet. It could be a while before its going home. Which is good for local birders who have not seen it yet.

As for the Long-billed Plover (non breeding plumage), it was a coincidence that I found it. I was actually intended to do birding at another area but I was held with my personal chores and time was not on my side. I just took a car and drove to my usual place in Penampang rice field before the sun start to set and spotted a Little Ring Plover dipping it beck searching for food. I nearly wanted to leave and find another place until I spotted another plover standing next to it and more larger and longer tail. I tried identifying it but just could not put my finger into it. I have to ask some help, and help came from Sifu C.K.. I called him right away and he told me to stay put and wait for him. Not long later he arrived but he too was finding it hard to name it and decided to take some pictures with the birds standing together and decided to ask some help from a Mr Richard Chandler author of "Shorebirds of Northern Hemisphere". However I only managed to get a picture of the Little Ring Plover. Now there is a group of birder flocking to try their luck to get a picture of this bird (Sifu Karim, Jason, Andrew, Ben D.) Watch out Mr Long Billed Plover.

With this new additional I finally reach my 400's birds of Borneo. Very happy and thanks to the support and encouragement of my friends, Sifu C.K., Sifu Andrew, Sifu Jason and Sifu Karim.

Happy Birding.

Little Ring Plover

Common Coot

Jan-Feb Birding 2010

2010-02-08T15:12:00.009+08:00

Guiding was less compare to last year, so took the opportunity to add my list of birds (400's)which I was missing of 2.

Before the end of Jan 2010, I was booked for a birding tour to Sandakan to help a Taiwan grp that needed extra eyes to spot for birds at RDC. They were 16 in total. A mixed grp of professional to "retired" individual.

I was indeed looking forward to add my missing 2 birds to make to 400. This will definately give me the edge. However, RDC (Rainforest Discovery Centre - situated at Sepilok area) was not so happening. Birds was slow and the Bristle head was not to be seen. The group was really dissapointed. However I feel that they will get their 15 birds to make to 200 even without the Bristle head.

Luck was on our side, we did managed to get the remaining 15 and in effect we got more than we expected.

The list : Oriental Honey Buzzard, Thick-billed Pigeon, Large-tailed Nightjar (heard),Edible Nest Swiflet, Brown Needle Tail, House Swift, Rufous Woodpecker, Orange Woodpecker,Buff Rumped Woodpecker,Lesser Green Leafbird, Fiery Minivet, Velvet Fronted Nuthatch, Streaked Bulbul, Red-Eyed Bulbul, Yellow -vented Bulbul, Black-capped Babbler, Erpornis or White-bellied Yuhina, Javan Myna, Rufous-tailed Flycatcher, Orange-bellied Flowerpecker, Crimson-breasted Flowerpecker, Ruby Cheek Sunbird, Chestnut Munia, Dusky Munia.

The birding ended without any of Bornean Bristle Head..maybe next time.

Happy Birding

Wandering Whistling Duck

Black back Swamphen

Black Wing Stilt

Bornean Barbet

(coming out from the nest)

Ashy Drongo

A bold attempt capturing Black Shoulder Kite

(using digiscoping)

Bornean Barbet

Long-billed Broadbill

Little Ring Plover

Taiwan Birder's at RDC (lunch break)

Black Headed Bulbul

Brunei Trip

2010-01-24T18:57:00.005+08:00

My first assignment outside Sabah this year, guiding for a tour operator in Brunei and this was my second tour.

This time it was more easy to guide after taking more time to learn about the country and the group was very attentive despite using a translator in the bus.

Took some pictures of the buses and a signage that took my attention and curiosity. The spelling is quite catchy for a Malaysian point of view.

Aerial pictures of the ground using my Samsung i780. This was my first time upload picture using the phone camera.

Happy reading.

Birding with Mr & Mrs Wolfgang

2010-01-11T14:24:00.003+08:00

My first birding work for 2010.
Mr & Mrs Wolfgang was quite new in birding tour, they wanted to know how it is conducted and both decided to take a half day tour. We departed at 0530 in the morning and proceed to Tg. Aru.
Our frist bird was the Blue Naped Parrot - in flocks, Imperial Green Pigeon, Glossy Starlings, Little Green Pigeon, White Breasted Woodswallow, Collared Kingfisher, Eurasian Tree Sparrow, Olive backed sunbird, Black Headed Munia, Zebra Dove, Spotted Necked Dove, Koel (heard only), Yellow Vented Bulbul.
When the birding was slowing at the beach, we moved to Likas Wetland Sanctuary. Little Egret, Intermediate Egret, Cattle Egret, Green Shank, Common Iora.

Happy Birding.

Year End Lifer 2009 - Welcome 2010

2010-01-04T18:41:00.010+08:00

Here are some pictures of which I consider lifers for me in 2009. There are other birds in my list but unfortunately I could not take their pictures.

Anyway looking forward to take more endemics and new comers to this part of the world. You will nerver know what might fly by.....

Cheers to all birders in the world and especially to Borneo Birders and those I did not mentioned.

Happy Birding

Part 2 Bird Survey: Telupid n Kinabatangan

2010-01-04T13:05:00.012+08:00

This the second part of the survey and I hope this will not be the last.

Happy reading and birding.

Camping ground

Spotting noctornal animals

Stick insect joining for dinner

A wet raptor sp..?

Having Dinner and Beer with Denis Ikon and Elemer Abragan

One of the river at Bidu-bidu

Maiden Viel Mushroom sp

White Crowned Shama

One of the 'jacuzzi"

Lesser Green Leafbird

Female Trogon - Diard's

Black Eagle Nesting

White Crowned Hornbill

Black Hornbil (Male 'n' Female)

Barn Swallow

Scarket Rumped Trogon

Crested Serpent Eagle

White Bellied Woodpecker

Blue Throated BeeEater

Part 1 Bird Survey - Telupid n Kinabatangan

2009-12-13T13:34:00.011+08:00

Did some bird survey in the month of November. The purpose of this survey was to record the endemics and thier extend of habitats.
Since this is only a preliminary survey, the survey is done randomly and will need more time to cover the extend of the forest of Telupid and Kinabatangan.
Will continue to post Part 2 of this survey soon.

Happy Birding.

Camp site

Hunter's Hide

Elmer and Dennis Ikon

Steep Climb at Kinabatangan Jungle

Keenneth and Lence

Team at Work (Kenneth and Lence)

Treeking at Telupid Jungle

Trap found in on of our survey

Treeking

Crested Serpent Eagel - a pair

Wrinkled Hornbill

Storm Stork's

Bat Hawk on a nest

Little Spider Hunter

2nd Day Outing with CK and Osman

2009-12-13T13:13:00.004+08:00

This is our 2nd break (from guiding) and decided to try our neighborhood jogging park. The result were quite surprising and my lifer was a Japanese Sparrow Hawk for that day. It was hovering for a minute and then disappear in the hills. Later saw it again with CK, this time it was eating something on a tree but quite obscure to take any picture and then it was gone.

Happy Birding.

CK, Denis and Osman

Black-winged Flycatcher Shrike

Black and Red Broadbill

Juvenile Rufous-tailed Tailorbird

Common Iora

Blue Eared Kingfisher

Night Heron

Kota Belud Outing with CK and Osman

2009-11-07T07:02:00.006+08:00

Birding with good friends and below are pictures that I managed to take.

The outing was rewarded with a Temminck's Stint - calidris temminckii (identified by CK) a non breeding winter visitor and several sighting of Buff Banded Rail has confirm my curiosity of this bird arrivals. Unfortunately I am unable to take a picture.

Several White Winged Tern - chlidonias leucopterus was also seen with Scope's.

Wimbrel

Chinese Egret

Javan Pond Heron

Common Kingfisher

Bird Festival - RDC 10-15 Oct 2009

2009-10-25T17:40:00.009+08:00

It was a great day for Sabah and in particularly Sandakan. The International Bird Festival (RDC) was officiated by the DCM on the 10 Oct 09.

Not only it was a beautiful bird festival but it was also the 1st bird race for this fare.

I tried to take some decent pictures but since it was a working outing I had only some of this pictures to share.

Happy birding.

Red-sided Snake

Dwarf Kingfisher

Giant-flying squirrel

Crested Serpent Eagle

Checkered-throated Woodpecker

Racket-tailed Drongo

Spectacled Spiderhunter

Bristle head

Participant from Selangor

(Yayasan Anak Warisan Alam)

Birds of Borneo Club Booth

(permanent structure donated by forestry)

Mark Broadbent Part 2 - 26 Aug 09

2009-09-13T23:33:00.004+08:00

PART 2

Took the first out to Sandakan and meet up with Bailey our transporter. We stop for breakfast at Mile 10 before proceeding to Sepilok Orang Utan Centre. (note: Jordan Sitorus was in the same plane only releasing this when he called my name and also met up with Alfons at the breakfast point).

Got some pictures of orang-utan, proboscis monkeys, languar monkeys and a violet cuckoo (this was the big surprise - but picture was only good for identification quality.

Happy reading.

RDC canopy walk-way

Juvenile Orang Utan

Violet Cuckoo sigted at RDC

Silver leaf Langur

Mark with foreground of Proboscis

Mark in the middle of crowd trying to video the Orang Utan

Mark Broadbent Part 1 (23rd - 25th Aug 09)

2009-09-06T13:35:00.006+08:00

Part 1

Got some work to guide for a photographer from Australia from 21st Aug to 06th Sept. Very talented person and this are few of the places that we have visited.

This is part 1 of our journey and I hope the pictures will give more stories than my writing.

Happy Reading.

Manukan Isld

Gayana Eco Resort

KK Waterfront (waiting for sunset)

Kota Kinabalu City Bird-Eye View from Signal Hill

On Top of Shangri-La Roof Top to picture the grounds for the Resort

SUGUD RESERVE FOREST 20-08-09

2009-08-21T19:17:00.007+08:00

Took some time out birding with Karim @sinooorita and Jason @harukoru at Sugud Forest Reseve but birding was slow and not long enough it started to rain. So we all decided to make a day.

A fruit dove was spotted by courtesy of Jason @harukoru and the large woodshrike was spotted by Karim and myself.

JAMBU FRUIT DOVE

BACK VIEW LARGE WOODSHRIKE

13-16 August 09 - Uthai Treesucon and Party

2009-08-16T21:59:00.010+08:00

Birding with Mr Uthai T. x 5 pax from Thailand. We managed to see most of the required bird's in their list except for the Giant Pitta.

Mr Uthai Treesucon & Party

Pied Hornbill

Brown Wood Owl (Poor picture)

White Fronted Falconet

Crested Goshawk

Large Green Pigeon

Asian Fairy Bluebird

Malaysian Blue Flycatcher

Raffles Malkoha - Juvenile

Scarlet Rumped Trogon

Borneon Gibbon

List of birds from 13-16 Aug 09

*Oriental Darter

*Little Egret

*Large Egret

*Brahminy Kite

*Crested Goshawk

*Crested Serpent Eagle

*Black Eagle

*White Fronted Falconet

*Chestnut Necklace Partridge (heard)

*White breasted Waterhen

*Large Grean Pigeon

*Little Gean Pigeon

*Green Imperial Pigeon

*Spotted Neck Dove

*Dollarbird

*Blue Throated BeeEater

*Raffles Malkoha

*Black-bellied Malkoha

*Lesser Coucal

*Brown Wood Owl

*Edible Birdnest Swift

*Silver-rumped Swift

*Whiskered TreeSwift

*Pacific Swallow

*Scarled-rumped Trogon

*Rufous Backed Kingfisher

*White-crowned Hornbill

*Pied Hornbill

*Black Hornbill

*Rhinocerous Hornbill (heard)

*Helmeted Hornbill (heard)

*Wreated Hornbill

*Brown Barbet

*Great Slaty Woodpecker

*Olive-backed Woodpecker

*Rufous Woodpecker

*Maroon Woodpecker

*Buff-rimped Woodpecker

*Buff-necked Woodpecker

*Rufous Piculet

*Black and Yellow Broadbill

*Black & Crimson Pitta

*Blue-headed Pitta

*Yellow Wagtail

*Scarlet Minivet

*Green Iora

*Common Iora

*Greater Leafbird

*Lesser Leafbird

*Asian Fairy Bluebird

*Yellow Vented Bulbul

*Red-eyed Bulbul

*Cream-vented Bulbul

*Spectacled Bulbul

*Hairy-backed Bulbul

*Buff-vented Bulbul

*White-rumped Shama

*White-bellied Yuhina

*Chestnut-winged Babbler

*Ashy Tailorbird

*Malaysian Blue Flycatcher

*Pied Fantail Flycatcher

*Maroon-breasted Philentoma

*Rufous-winged Philentoma

*Velvet-fronted Nuthatch

*Yellow-rumped Flowerpecker

*Orange-bellied Flowerpecker

*Crimson Sunbird

*Purple Throated Sunbird

*Little Spiderhunter

*Dusky Munia

*White-bellied Munia

*Bronzed Drongo

*Dark-throated Oriole

*Glossy Starling

*Common Myna

*Slender-billed Crow

Scaly-breasted Munia - Lonchura Punctulata

2009-08-11T23:27:00.005+08:00

Was trying to look out for the Slaty-breasted rail or the Buff-banded rail at the same place but instead a single Scaly-breasted Munia was seen flying in the same area.

I have been trying to get a decent shot of this bird until today. So enjoy.

Happy Birding.

Film Festival Malaysia ke 22 / 2009 - UMS Sabah

2009-08-11T22:17:00.008+08:00

Took sometime off from my usual guiding for birders, this time it was for the Artist and Writers of Malaysia. After the awards night, they were treated to visit the World Heritage Mt Kinabalu Park and lunch at one of the local hotel.

I was previliged to know some nice people who acutally are the real "actor" of the films. Writers of Malaysia have gone a long way and I am happy to know that writing is now a force in the income earner. Malaysia Boleh...

PULAU GAYA AND PULAU SAPI

2009-08-09T23:21:00.007+08:00

Its been a while guiding to Pulau Gaya and to Pulau Sapi.

Pulau Gaya has not lost it's charm and the jungle trails were maintain very well and got a picture of a wild orchid sp (cymbidium finlaysonianum)

The only difference that I notice was that the ending point (the Padang) is now developed and has proper toilet, a reception hall and a ticket booth.

The jetty was also built finally to make it easier to embark on to the boat. Previously we had to get wet and had to climb into the boat.

Then it was off to Pulau Sapi, it was busy with local and international visitors likewise. After taking lunch the "dragons of Sapi" suddenly came out from the jungle to display their interest on the leftovers.

Without warning a "mangrove blue-flycatcher" sighted not far from the dragons. It was perching under the bbq pit which was already cooled. However I had only the G9 and this was the result.

Happy reading

WADERS ARE COMING BACK

2009-08-06T22:21:00.006+08:00

Took sometime to check out the mudflats today with Karim @sinooorita at Lok Kawi.
Some of the waders are showing signs that they are coming back to Borneo beach.

Looking forward to see more species coming down to this shores again.

Birds sighted today:-
1) Common Red Shank
2) Greater Plover
3) Grey Tailled Tattler
4) Common Sand Piper
5) Little Ring Plover
6) Little Tern

Rain Rain Rain but

2009-07-30T22:33:00.004+08:00

Call Karim @sinooorita to check out the birds at Sugud Forest Reserve but it just rain, rain, rain since 0600 am.

Finally it stops around 1145 am and without hesitation we drove as fast as we could.
But the birds were all having a long siesta, but the weather was quite nice and pleasant for a change.

We finally got some shots and it was the faithful Black and Yellow Broadbill. It gave us some pleasure finally making use of our camera.

I also took some macro picture when the birding pace were slowing down.

Note: I added a Buff-banded Rail that I took 2 days earlier. It was not really a good shot but it's one rare migrant that I would like to add for my collection finally.

Buff-banded Rail (gallirallus philippensis)

GREATER PAINTED SNIPE 2ND VISIT

2009-07-29T21:17:00.004+08:00

Decided to check out the birds this afternoon, but rain suddenly came down around 0430 pm. It was pouring cats and dogs but luckly it a was a brief rain. Lasted only about 30 minutes.

Took out my bins and look out for the pair but only the male was seen on the nest, the female has gone missing. Thinking it must have gone out to feed herseld and decided to wait longer.

But until 0630 pm the female has not returned and I fear the worse..

Hope she will be there tomorrow.

Posting Previous Collection

2009-07-28T18:12:00.005+08:00

This is Tim Hochgrebe from Underwater Website, a photographer from Australia. He was here from an invitation from a tour company to do some article about Borneo especially diving destinations. On the last day of his visit, I took him to Kg Luanti for a fish massage. Well actually it is fish feeding than anything else.

It was quite fun and something new for this writer to add on in their website.

The village is situated along the roadside and could be reach around 2 1/2 hours drive from KK.

Visitors will have to pay entrance because the fishes are protected and taken really with care by the villagers.

Happy Holidays.

Tim on the Job

Locals trying out the product

Greater Painted Snipe

2009-07-27T22:57:00.007+08:00

Initially wanted to bird early this morning, eversince I was informed by Karim @sinooorita that a pair of Greater Painted Snipe was spotted at my favourite birding site (Penampang highway bypass), But only decided to do it in the afternoon instead, which turn out to be favourable to me. Not only a Painted Snipe but a pair and guarding it nest with 1 egg.

At the same area a Slaty Breasted Rail was spotted trying to cross to the other side of the rice field and this shot was taken in a rush, so it's a poor picture. But anyway it's for identification purpose.

Feeling happy with the find, decided to share it with friends, called Karim, CK, Jason @Nazri, Ben D but only Karim and CK could come.

Not long later both came and managed to photograph it before the sun sets in.

List of bird sighted at the same area.
*Moor Hen x 6

*Crested Myna x 3
*White Breasted Waterhen x 4
*Cinnamon Bittern x 2
*Wood Sandpiper x Several

Happy Birding.

Brown Barbet

2009-07-26T22:59:00.007+08:00

Today when birding with Karim at Sugud Forest Reserve. It's been almost 5 months the last time I visited the place. As expected the jungle was quite, less bird activity. I only managed to get a few pictures of a Brown Barbet. This was the only subject that was sporting.

Happy watching.

WHITE COLLARED KINGFISHER

2009-07-24T23:35:00.003+08:00

I was on the way home and decided to take a detour to Likas Wetland Birdsanctuary.

It was very quite only the Kingfisher was calling and 3 ashy tailor bird chasing among themselves.

But the tailorbirds was so fast that I rule them out and instead took pictures of the kingfisher.

It was getting dark but just tried out how it came out. So here it is....

Long and Overdue Posting

2009-07-21T21:43:00.003+08:00

Dear All,

It been very long posting latest events or pictures.

Would have to wait a little bit longer though.

Many pictures and sorting the dates and event that came with it.

Cheers.

About Denis

2009-01-15T20:24:00.012+08:00

Hello I am Denis Degullacion, quite a handful for the surname but you can just call me Denis. Been a Nature guide since 1985 and hometown was Sandakan until recent migration to Kota Kinabalu in 1997.

This blog was meant to share the world what Sabah Borneo has to offer and maybe a database for information for those who are interested to know more about Borneo avifauna, fauna and flora.

As Birding is my main interest, I am an enthusiast orchid guide, mammals and 4WD drive trekking. I have the means to arrange (camping equipment and vehicle’s) an overland 4WD into the heart of “Borneo” and will bring you places where men have never been.

Photography is another love and which will compliments my adventure in the wild and hope the pictures will be good enough to enjoy in this blog.

My photography (digiscoping) setup is made of Kowa TSN603 attach with universal adapter (kowa), using Nikon cool pix P5100 and L16 and Canon G9 compact cameras and recently bought Kowa adapter to attach my Nikon D300. My binocular is Nikon Monarch 10x42 and Leica BA series.

Contact me for further information. E-mail dgullaci@gmail.com or dgullaci@yahoo.co.uk or dgullaci@aol.com and you can also look me at www.flickr.com/photos/dgullaci

Photo By: Jollence Lee

Taking a break

2008-12-10T08:49:00.002+08:00

Its been a while that I have birded at Kinabalu Park. It was a public holiday on the 8 Dec 08 and managed to take some decent pictures. Some were heard and did not managed to get pictures and the list as follows.
*Trogon - female (not sure what sp) flew across.
*Chestnut headed laughing thrush - 2
*Temminks sunbird - male & female
*Yellow breasted warbler - flocks
*Yuhina - flocks
*Green leaf warbler - 4
*Borneon treepie - 4
*Indigo flycatcher - 4
*Pied flycather - 1
*Ashy drongo - 2

Plaintive Cuckoo (Cacomantis merulinus)

2008-12-07T15:25:00.003+08:00

Taken along Penampang-Puun Tunoh road.
It was rainging but managed to get a decent picture.
I am adding some video shots for today post.
Enjoy everyone

Mt Kinabalu - Another View

2008-11-12T18:51:00.001+08:00

Mt Kinabalu

2008-11-07T18:18:00.000+08:00

General

2008-11-03T14:31:00.003+08:00

I was down on a flu from the 1st Nov and finally recovered from it yesterday. However made an effort to visit my usual site but weather was not favourable, anyway met Karim @sinooorita and he was already set up to take some pictures.

Nothing much he says, so I decided to drive further up the road to check some new areas but the rain was starting to come down. Eventually decided to go home.

Note: some late pictures posted for viewing purposes.

Chesnut Cheeked Starling-Sturnus phillipines

2008-10-30T15:01:00.004+08:00

Today the weather is holding, cool and sunny. Arrived at the same spot at 0715 and park the car. Patience seems to be paying off today, Chesnut Cheeked Starling appeared on the same tree where I digiscope the Pink-Necked Green Pigeon. And Karim @sinooorita inform me that tree was the same place he photograph it two days earlier. So now I have some leads because this tree is fruiting and it seems to enjoying it.

It was moving so fast it was quite difficult to photograph but anyhow I just took some.
Not the best of pictures but managed to get it for identification purpose.

Not long later Jason @horokuru arrived and inform him of the starling and both of us tried to take some picture.

I tried to get in on video but it was just to fast maybe I will try my luck tomorrow.

Today's list: Chestnut Cheeked Starling, Great Egret, Cattle Egret, Pink Necked Green Pigeon, Crested Myna, Yellow Vented Bulbul, Straited Grass Bird, Tailor bird (heard only) , Sandpipers, Black Shouldered Kite, Spotted Dove, Lesser Egret, Little ring plover

Trying my skill

2008-10-29T22:22:00.003+08:00

Today was fine weather, I was supposed to met CK but I was late, did went to the Black Collared Starling site. Park the car at the same place and only notice that CK van was park ahead at the old site where we tested my scope. I should have inform him that I was park at the back of the road, again my sincere apology to you CK.

I actualy arrived around 0705 and was birding around until I realised CK was gone around 0800. I guess he must be dissapointed that I did not keep my word (should have been there early) again my apologies to Him.

At about 0750/0800 when I was about to move back to my car, Karim @sinooorita was already setting up his scope and we waited and waited for the starling to appear but instead only the norm was seen (leser sand piper, cattel egret, cinnamon bittern, yellow vented bulbul, spotted dove, juvenile green heron and a pair of pink necked green pigeon. Spotted the heron and ask some tips from Karim how to actually get a better focus with digiscoping and with several tries, I finally managed to get a good picture of the pigeon. Thank you Karim.

Waited until the sun was getting hotter, we decided to make it a day and head for breakfast to a mamak shop. When the Nescafe arrvied, Karim received a call from Jason B, told him that Changable Hawk eagle was at the Likas bird sanctuary (road side) pearching on a dead tree. Without hesitation we headed to that direction but the bird had moved to a higher tree and was out of sight. While waiting for the bird to return, we change views and ideas how to improve our birding and photography here in Sabah in general.

At 1130 am, it was time to make our move and we departed our ways. Promised to make another visit tomorrow at Penampang road.

Starlings

2008-10-28T12:40:00.004+08:00

Weather today was the same as yesterday morning,thinking it would rain so decided to take a longer sleep but the phone rang and Thomas was already at the site. So jump I went and met him and after looking and waiting for an hour, then boom right in front was this two big birds wondering around the dried part of the rice field.

Very noticeable was the prominent facial skin yellowish and white band across rump and uppertail-coverts and prominent white wing markings.

This is my lifer for this month.

I have also added a video. Check it out.

Weekend and Depavali Day

2008-10-27T19:19:00.000+08:00

Thinking it will be a long weekend and with the coming of Depavali celebration, birding was the first thing in my mind. However it rain, rain, rain from Sunday until morning Monday.

It was really a gloomy day but on the Monday noon time, called Karim aka sinooorita and found out that he was already at the Penampang road side where we spoted the Phalarope and Ruff. Again this time it was the Pranticole. They were 4 birds at the road side, approximately about 100 meters from the roadside.

Tried to take some digiscoping but the rain was in the way, only managed a sorry picture but at least it was recorded of its presence.

Macro Canon G9

2008-10-25T22:57:00.003+08:00

Finally did some photography with the new G9 Canon. As mentioned in my earlier entry, I tried using it for digiscoping but some so promising.

However the G9 did work well with other subjects. Fortunately for me , I love orchids and its been my passion to get good pictures of rare or endemic orchids of Borneo. So here are some pictures for sampling.

2008-10-21T13:41:00.005+08:00

Finally did some digiscope with Canon G9 / Kowa TSN 603 x 45 x. but the final result was not impresive.

I was advise that just maybe the camera was not compatible for digiscoping.

The bird pictures was taken during the Waders workshop conducted by David Bakewell, organised by Nazeri Abghani, MSN Sabah - Ali, Jason and Karim (slide contribution).

The workshop was quite educational and hopefully there will be more to come.

Note: the orchid and pitcher plants was photograph earlier.

Cheers

Sunset

2008-09-28T22:53:00.002+08:00

The picture was taken with G9 canon camera. This is the first posting with this camera.

Looking forward to take more pictures with it.

2008-09-24T12:30:00.003+08:00

This morning around 0720 am , took a drive using the Dongongon bypass and some rice fields ready for planting. A curious figure was bobbing in and out of the drainage. Took a quick video shots of it but a very bad one. This is only a snapshot. Video cannot download. Do not not why? Anyone can help?

Besra - Tambunan

2008-06-18T13:35:00.002+08:00

With greet interest I decided to join with good friends to look for the Besra nesting with 3 chicks.
Unfortunately the nest was empty. Meet few friends who had camp for the 3 nights just to catch a glimpse of them but confirmed us with bad news.

Changing New Job / New Office

2008-04-23T18:26:00.003+08:00

Having time to sort out with the new company. Things are a bit slow.

Did some birding last month with Jason and CK at Mt Kinabalu Park, did not see much but wonderful sigthing of the Whitehead Spider Hunter.

I am relying pictures from CK or Jason to support my entry.

Cheers!

NEW YEAR '08

2008-01-05T13:29:00.000+08:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR

Been very lazy updating my blog, it is new year but nothing seem to new.

Anyway, 29 December was okay, few friends came to the house for a dinner.

C.K, Jason, Andrew, Karim, Lence, Gwenda, Jack, Melisa, Reza, Edy and his girlfriend.

That was the closing chapter for 2007.

LOOKING FORWARD THIS YEAR BIRDING AND PHOTOGRAPY.

CHEERS

CHRISTMAS 2007

2007-12-26T12:50:00.000+08:00

Christmas was quite a slow this year but a sober christmas for once. Spent the Chritmas Eve with my youngest brother and addition to that my parents from Sandakan came to visit us too.

No birding since the last barred tailed godwit.

Quite slow but work seem to pick up momentum.

Preparing next year work and also birding trip, maybe to Manila or China.

Not sure yet, but will choose one destination.

**Wishing all Birders and Photographers "Happy New Year and Happy Birding"

Barred tailed godwit - Limosa lapponica

2007-12-13T12:00:00.000+08:00

Received SMS text from Jason aka Harokuro 0917am, barred tailed godwit at near Tg Aru.

Drop everything when looking for him and other birder's, Andrew and Karim. I did not brought
my scope or bino but good friend Jason allowed me to use his scope.

Beautiful bird, my first godwit for this year. There were others birds too, Chinese egret , Greater egret, Pacific reef egret, Grey-tailed tattler, Whimbrel.

Thanks Guys.

This winter visitor is commonly migrate to New Zealand as per information from Wikedia Commons.

Extract for reference:

Migration of the Bar-tailed Godwit Limosa lapponica.Bar-tailed Godwits have recently (March 2007) been shown to undertake the longest non-stop flight of any bird. Using satellite tracking, birds in New Zealand were tagged and tracked all the way to the Yellow Sea in China. According to Dr. Clive Minton (Australasian Wader Studies Group) "The distance between these two locations is 9,575 km, but the actual track flown by the bird was 11,026 km. This is the longest known non-stop flight of any bird. The flight took approximately nine days. At least three other Bar-tailed Godwits also appear to have reached the Yellow Sea after non-stop flights from New Zealand."

Blue Mountain

2007-12-04T11:51:00.000+08:00

Kinabalu Mountain

Was taken 2 months ago while flying for Sandakan.

The pilot was quite sporting that day, gave us some appourtunity to snap some rounds before
the clouds covered it.