Trip Summary & Species Analysis

• Total Bird Species Recorded: 85 species

• Total Bird Families Represented: 36 families (including Pittidae, Phasianidae, Trogonidae, Bucerotidae, Eurylaimidae, Megalaimidae, Nectariniidae, Muscicapidae, Leiothrichidae, and Paridae)

• Other Wildlife Recorded: 8 mammal species (White-thighed Surili, Dusky Langur, Long-tailed Macaque, Pig-tailed Macaque, Black Giant Squirrel, Himalayan Striped Squirrel, Red-bellied/Pallas's Squirrel, Prevost's Squirrel)

This 4-day private birdwatching tour from October 22–25, 2026, swept across Taman Negara (Sungei Relau) and Fraser's Hill with Peter and Celia. Recording 85 bird species across 36 families—highlighted by Garnet Pitta, Great Argus, Malayan Peacock-Pheasant, Crestless Fireback, and high-energy montane bird waves—it showcased Peninsular Malaysia's premier birding corridors.

Download PDF trip report

Lowland Legends to Montane Waves: A 4-Day Malaysian Birding Sprint from Taman Negara to Fraser's Hill

There is a pure, electric thrill that comes with race-against-the-clock birding in Peninsular Malaysia. One moment you are sitting quietly in the fading twilight of a dense lowland rainforest waiting for a jewel-toned Pitta; the next, you are surrounded by a swirling mountain bird wave in the crisp, cool air of the highlands.

From October 22 to 25, 2026, I had the pleasure of guiding Peter and Celia on a targeted 4-day birding expedition. Designed to maximize species yield across two distinct ecological zones—the ancient lowland rainforests of Taman Negara (Sungei Relau entrance via Gua Musang) and the montane forests of Fraser's Hill—our trip delivered world-class sightings, rare pheasants, and an impressive species tally.

EXPEDITION OVERVIEW AT A GLANCE 

• Dates: October 22–25, 2026 

• Route: Gua Musang -> Taman Negara (Sungei Relau) -> Fraser's Hill 

• Total Bird Species: 85 species across 36 families 

• Top Avian Highlights: Garnet Pitta, Great Argus, Malayan Peacock-Pheasant, Crestless Fireback, Sultan Tit 

• Key Mammals: White-thighed Surili, Dusky Langur, Black Giant Squirrel

Day 1: The Race for the Garnet Pitta

Our adventure kicked off at 4:00 PM in Gua Musang, where I met Peter and Celia. With fading daylight and no time to waste, we made a direct drive to the Sungei Relau entry point of Taman Negara. Our singular mission for the late afternoon: secure one of Peninsular Malaysia's most striking understory jewels, the Garnet Pitta.

We reached the feeding area close to 5:00 PM under overcast skies. Forest birding in low light demands immense patience and quiet discipline. We sat motionless, scanning the shadowed forest floor as the clock ticked down. Just before 6:00 PM, right at the edge of daylight, a magnificent Garnet Pitta stepped into view, its crimson belly and electric-blue crown glowing against the dark leaf litter.

Alongside sightings of the Scarlet-rumped Trogon, Short-tailed Babbler, and White-rumped Shama, we watched White-thighed Surilis moving through the canopy before returning to Gua Musang for a well-deserved dinner.

Day 2: Pheasants, Hornbills, and Rainforest Downpours

We started early from Gua Musang to reach Taman Negara at first light. After linking up with our local transport and guide, we crossed the river and focused on the forest floor specialists that make this park world-famous.

Our targeted approach paid off effortlessly: within a short period, we secured fantastic views of both the legendary Great Argus with its ornate display feathers and the secretive, endemic Malayan Peacock-Pheasant. Walking back along the access road, we were treated to an exceptional surprise—a male Crestless Fireback stepped calmly across the road in front of us, marking my third sighting of this rare pheasant this month!

The canopy was equally alive, yielding Rhinoceros Hornbill, White-crowned Hornbill, Black-and-red Broadbill, Banded Broadbill, and Orange-backed Woodpecker. After a midday lunch break in Gua Musang, we returned for the afternoon session. However, by 5:00 PM, a massive tropical downpour with booming thunder rolled in, calling a safe and prudent end to our lowland leg.

Day 3: Canopy Walk and the Highland Transition

On Day 3, we checked out of Gua Musang, took a final morning walk along the tree-top canopy walkway in Taman Negara, and began our scenic drive up to the cool montane climate of Fraser's Hill.

After checking into our accommodation along the Telekom Loop, we immediately hit the trails. Almost instantly, we collided with a massive mixed-species feeding flock—a classic highland "bird wave." The trees were bursting with motion as stunning Sultan Tits with their bright yellow crests, Blue Nuthatches, Red-headed Trogons, Verditer Flycatchers, and Grey-chinned Minivets moved together through the canopy.

To top off an extraordinary day of habitat shifting, our combined list for the day spanned both lowland and highland targets, including Wreathed Hornbill, Banded Woodpecker, and a roosting Oriental Bay Owl.

Day 4: Full Day on the Telekom Loop with Great Company

Our final day was dedicated entirely to the premier birding trails of Fraser's Hill. We were fortunate to be joined for almost the whole day by fellow birder Dr. Yong, sharing great conversations over lunch and dinner.

The morning weather was pristine, allowing us to systematically cover the Telekom Loop and select hotspots. Highland specialists appeared in rapid succession: Fire-tufted Barbet, Black-browed Barbet, Silver-eared Mesia, Long-tailed Sibia, Chestnut-capped Laughingthrush, White-tailed Robin, Sunda Cutia/Shrike-babblers, and the tiny, secretive Pygmy Cupwing.

By late afternoon, strong mountain winds picked up—a classic highland cue for birds to take shelter—bringing our intensive 4-day sprint to a satisfying close.

Trip Species Checklist: Taman Negara & Fraser's Hill (Oct 22–25, 2026)

Summary: 85 Bird Species across 36 Families | 8 Mammal Species

Bird Checklist (Categorized by Family)

Phasianidae (Pheasants & Partridges)

• Malayan Peacock-Pheasant (Endemic)

• Great Argus

• Crestless Fireback

Pittidae (Pittas)

• Garnet Pitta

Trogonidae (Trogons)

• Scarlet-rumped Trogon

• Red-headed Trogon

Bucerotidae (Hornbills)

• Rhinoceros Hornbill

• White-crowned Hornbill

• Wreathed Hornbill

Eurylaimidae (Asian Broadbills)

• Black-and-red Broadbill

• Banded Broadbill

• Black-and-yellow Broadbill

Megalaimidae (Asian Barbets)

• Fire-tufted Barbet

• Black-eared Barbet

• Black-browed Barbet

Picidae (Woodpeckers)

• Orange-backed Woodpecker

• Checker-throated Woodpecker

• Buff-rumped Woodpecker

• Crimson-winged Woodpecker

• Banded Woodpecker

• Bay Woodpecker

• Greater Yellownape

• Maroon Woodpecker

Accipitridae (Hawks & Eagles)

• Changeable Hawk-Eagle

Falconidae (Falcons & Falconets)

• Black-thighed Falconet

Cuculidae (Cuckoos & Malkohas)

• Raffles's Malkoha

• Green-billed Malkoha

• Little Cuckoo-Dove

Tytonidae & Strigidae (Owls)

• Oriental Bay Owl

Meropidae (Bee-eaters)

• Blue-throated Bee-eater

Paridae (Tits)

• Sultan Tit

Sittidae (Nuthatches)

• Blue Nuthatch

Muscicapidae (Old World Flycatchers & Robins)

• White-rumped Shama

• Oriental Magpie-Robin

• Verditer Flycatcher

• Hill Blue Flycatcher

• Rufous-browed Flycatcher

• Little Pied Flycatcher

• Asian Brown Flycatcher

• White-tailed Robin

Turdidae & Pnoepygidae (Cupwings & Shortwings)

• Pygmy Cupwing

• Lesser Shortwing

Leiothrichidae & Pellorneidae (Babblers & Laughingthrushes)

• Short-tailed Babbler

• Chestnut-winged Babbler

• Pin-striped Tit-Babbler

• Buff-breasted Babbler

• Grey-throated Babbler

• Mountain Fulvetta

• Long-tailed Sibia

• Silver-eared Mesia

• Chestnut-capped Laughingthrush

Vireonidae (Shrike-babblers)

• White-browed Shrike-babbler

• Black-eared Shrike-babbler

Dicruridae (Drongos)

• Greater Racket-tailed Drongo

• Lesser Racket-tailed Drongo

Rhipiduridae (Fantails)

• White-throated Fantail

Campephagidae (Cuckoo-shrikes & Minivets)

• Grey-chinned Minivet

• Bar-winged Flycatcher-shrike

• Malayan Cuckooshrike

Laniidae (Shrikes)

• Tiger Shrike

Pycnonotidae (Bulbuls)

• Grey-cheeked Bulbul

• Red-eyed Bulbul

• Stripe-throated Bulbul

• Yellow-bellied Bulbul

• Hairy-backed Bulbul

• Yellow-vented Bulbul

• Black-crested Bulbul

• Ochraceous Bulbul

• Mountain Bulbul

Chloropseidae (Leafbirds)

• Blue-winged Leafbird

• Orange-bellied Leafbird

Nectariniidae (Sunbirds & Spiderhunters)

• Black-throated Sunbird

• Long-billed Spiderhunter

• Streaked Spiderhunter

Dicaeidae (Flowerpeckers)

• Fire-breasted Flowerpecker

Zosteropidae (White-eyes)

• Hume's White-eye

Cisticolidae (Prinios & Tailorbirds)

• Rufescent Prinia

Sturnidae (Starlings & Mynas)

• Common Hill Myna

• Javan Myna

Corvidae (Crows & Jays)

• Sunda Crow

Motacillidae (Wagtails)

• Grey Wagtail

Estrildidae (Munias)

• White-rumped Munia

Mammal & Wildlife Checklist

• White-thighed Surili (Presbytis Siamensis)

• Dusky Langur (Trachypithecus obscurus)

• Long-tailed Macaque (Macaca fascicularis)

• Black Giant Squirrel (Ratufa bicolor)

• Himalayan Striped Squirrel (Tamiops mcclellandii)

• Red-bellied / Pallas's Squirrel (Callosciurus erythraeus)

• Prevost's Squirrel (Callosciurus prevostii)

• Plantain / Common Forest Squirrels

Ready for Your Custom Malaysian Birding Adventure?

From the deep lowland forests of Taman Negara to the misty ridges of Fraser's Hill, Peninsular Malaysia offers world-class birding within easy reach. Whether you are hunting for cryptic Pittas and rare Pheasants or wanting to experience the electric energy of montane bird waves, a custom private tour ensures maximum field efficiency and comfort.

As a licensed, professional local birding guide, I tailor every itinerary around your target list, pacing preferences, and photography goals.

Planning your next birding trip to Malaysia? [Contact me today at malaysianbirder.blogspot.com] to check private guide availability, discuss target lists, and design your custom itinerary!

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Rhinoceros Hornbill

Blue-throated Bee-eater

Blue-eared Kingfisher

Banded Broadbill

Oriental Bay Owl

Black-throated Babler

Blue-headed Pitta (female)

Blue-headed Pitta (male)

Wreathed Hornbill (male)

Helmeted Hornbill (male)

Brown Barbet

Read more »

 

This 6-day private expedition through Sabah—spanning Sandakan, the Kinabatangan River, and Lahad Datu—delivered a masterclass in Bornean biodiversity. Guiding Mary and Beppe from August 19–24, 2026, we logged flagship mammals like the Bornean Pygmy Elephant alongside legendary avian targets including the Bornean Ground Cuckoo, Blue-headed Pitta, and Oriental Bay Owl.

​Borneo Unlocked: 6 Days of Endemics, Giants, and Jungle Jewels from Sandakan to Lahad Datu

​There is a distinct pulse to the Bornean rainforest. It starts before dawn with the booming calls of hornbills cutting through the mist and ends after dark with the glowing eyes of nocturnal hunters along the riverbank. For wildlife enthusiasts and photographers, Sabah remains the ultimate dream destination in Southeast Asia.

​From August 19 to 24, 2026, I had the absolute pleasure of guiding Mary and Beppe on an intensive 6-day exploration across Sabah’s premier wildlife corridors. Traversing from the coastal forests of Sandakan down the winding channels of the Kinabatangan River, and finishing in the lowland dipterocarp forests near Lahad Datu, our journey was designed to showcase the absolute best of Borneo’s birds, mammals, and reptiles.

Days 1 & 2: Woodpeckers, Sunbirds, and the Great River Approach

​Our trip kicked off in Sandakan on August 19th. The forest greeted us with an extraordinary display of woodpecker diversity right out of the gate. Within hours, we were photographing the Buff-rumped Woodpecker, Buff-necked Woodpecker, Rufous Woodpecker, and the striking Grey-and-buff Woodpecker. The understorey, midstorey and forest canopy were equally lively with avian life, yielding stunning views of the Hooded Pitta, White-crowned Hornbill, and the brilliant Copper-throated Sunbird.

​Days 3 & 4: The Kinabatangan River—Giants on the Bank and Night Hunters

By Day 3, we began making our way toward the legendary Kinabatangan River basin. The habitat opened up into rich riverine borders, and the hornbills took center stage. Heavy beats of wings overhead announced the arrival of the iconic Rhinoceros Hornbill, Oriental Pied Hornbill, and Black Hornbill. Down in the understory, flashes of crimson and gold revealed the Red-naped Trogon and a stunning Maroon Woodpecker, while Black-and-yellow Broadbills chattered from low perches.

​The Kinabatangan River is world-famous for a reason: it concentrates flagship wildlife along its forested banks like nowhere else on earth. Cruising the waterways on Day 3 brought us face-to-face with Borneo’s gentle giants. A herd of Bornean Pygmy Elephants emerged along the riverbank, giving us breathtaking, peaceful views as they fed along the forest edge. In the water, massive Estuarine Crocodiles basked on the mud, while troops of Proboscis Monkeys leaped across the canopy above.

​The birding along the river was equally electric. We logged rare riverine specialists including the endangered Storm’s Stork, Lesser Adjutant, Wrinkled Hornbill, and the spectacular Wallace’s Hawk-Eagle. Colorful Kingfishers were everywhere, with both Collared Kingfisher and Blue-eared Kingfisher perching close to the water.

​When night fell on Day 4, we took to the forest edges for night birding. The jungle after dark delivered pure magic: we secured incredible views of a roosting Buffy Fish-Owl alongside the highly sought-after, mysterious Oriental Bay Owl—a dream bird for any nocturnal photography enthusiast.

​Day 5: Deep-Forest Hides and Ground Specialists

​On Day 5, we shifted our strategy to specialized forest hides in the region, patient waiting spots designed to bring shy understory birds right into view. The rewards were fast and furious.

​The forest floor came alive with terrestrial beauties. We watched a stunning Sabah Partridge step cautiously into the clearing, followed closely by a regal male Bornean Crested Fireback. Kingfisher lovers were treated to a triple crown: the fiery Ruddy Kingfisher, the elusive Rufous-collared Kingfisher, the tiny, brilliant Rufous-backed Dwarf-Kingfisher and not forgeting the cooperative Banded Kingfisher (black-faced). Babblers also dominated the floor, including the Ferruginous Babbler, Short-tailed Babbler, Grey-headed Babbler, Bornean Black-capped Babbler and Chestnut-rumped Babbler.

​Day 6: The Grand Finale in Lahad Datu

​For our final day on August 24th, we explored the pristine forest patches near Lahad Datu. Borneo saved its absolute finest treasures for our grand finale.

​Stepping quietly along the forest trails and into the hides, we found one of the most elusive birds in all of Asia: the mythical Bornean Ground Cuckoo. Watching this magnificent, terrestrial bird walk calmly through the undergrowth was an unforgettable, high-voltage moment for all of us.

​Right on its heels came two world-class Pittas—the electric Blue-headed Pitta and the bold Black-crowned Pitta. Combined with sightings of the rare Sunda Blue Flycatcher, Rufous-tailed Shama, and an Oriental Whip Snake crossing the road, it was the absolute perfect conclusion to a world-class rainforest expedition.

​Experience the Wild Magic of Borneo!

​From the thunderous footsteps of Pygmy Elephants along the Kinabatangan to tracking rare Pittas and Ground Cuckoos in deep lowland hides, Sabah offers an unrivaled wilderness adventure. Whether you are a dedicated bird photographer needing precise positioning or a wildlife lover seeking a seamless, tailor-made itinerary, private guided tours ensure you see the rainforest at its absolute best.

​Ready to cross Borneo's dream species off your bucket list?

Read more »

The Unpredictable Wild: 9 Days Across Sabah with Friends

That is the true magic of birding and wildlife exploration. You can study the maps, prep the gear, and check off target lists in your head, but nature never reads the script! Nothing is ever guaranteed in the wild—and that exact anticipation, the waiting, and the sudden rush of a surprise sighting is what keeps us coming back for more.

I just wrapped up an unforgettable 9-day expedition traversing Sabah from west to east alongside three passionate birders from Hong Kong. Together with a local birder Andy whose dedication and love for Sabah birds is second to none, we journeyed across Klias, Kota Kinabalu, the Crocker Range, Trusmadi, Telupid, Ranau, Sandakan, and the famous Kinabatangan River.

Coastal Lowlands & Capital Outskirts (Klias & Kota Kinabalu)

Our adventure kicked off in the lowlands surrounding Klias and Kota Kinabalu. The wetlands and open habitats provided a great mix of resident and coastal species:

 Gray-hooded Babbler

 Violet Cuckoo

 Red-crowned Barbet & Black-eared Barbet

 Wandering Whistling-Duck

 Chestnut Munia, Dusky Munia, and Java Sparrow

 Brahminy Kite & White-breasted Woodswallow

 Pacific Reef-Heron (also known as Pacific Reef-Egret, Egretta sacra)  

 Nankeen Night-Heron

Up into the Misty Highlands (Crocker Range)

Moving inland, we climbed into the cooler air of the Crocker Range. Birding along roadside trails and dedicated stations yielded an incredible list of montane specialists and Bornean endemics:

 Bornean Endemics: Bornean Treepie, Bornean Shortwing, Bornean Whistler, and the striking Crimson-headed Partridge.

 Highland Favorites: Sunda Laughingthrush and Chestnut-hooded Laughingthrush (resembling the Chestnut-capped Laughingthrush from Peninsular Malaysia).

 Other Highlights: Temminck’s Babbler, Little Pied Flycatcher, Indigo Flycatcher, Snowy-browed Flycatcher, Ashy Drongo, Yellow-breasted Warbler, Golden-naped Barbet, and an remarkably obliging Temminck’s Sunbird that stole the show!

The Deep Forest Magic (Trusmadi)

Trusmadi was nothing short of extraordinary. Spending time in both a forest hide and along the road gave us a front-row seat to some of Borneo’s most sought-after ground and canopy species:

 Bornean Endemics: Bornean Barbet, Mountain Barbet, Bornean Bulbul, Bornean Banded-Pitta, Bornean Leafbird, Pygmy Heleia, Red-breasted Partridge, and Chestnut-crested Yuhina.

 Hide & Trail Highlights: Crested Partridge, Bold-striped Tit-Babbler, Yellow-rumped Flowerpecker, Sunda Scimitar-Babbler, Rufous-fronted Babbler, Penan Bulbul, Dayak Blue Flycatcher, Rufous-chested Flycatcher, Orange-headed Thrush, Emerald Dove, White-crowned Shama, and our first hornbill of the trip—the Wreathed Hornbill!

Foothills & The Elusive Pheasant Hunt (Ranau)

Stopping overnight in Ranau, a short afternoon session delivered a quick burst of colorful species:

 Gold-whiskered Barbet (represented here by the distinct Bornean subspecies chrysopsis, often called Gold-faced).

 Scarlet-backed Flowerpecker, Orange-bellied Flowerpecker, Yellow-vented Flowerpecker, Long-tailed Shrike, and White-fronted Falconet (plus hearing the elusive Blue-breasted Quail in the grass).

The following morning was the big test. To reach the famous hide for the endemic Bornean Peacock-Pheasant, we loaded into a pickup truck, hiked up a forest trail, and settled in for a silent wait. That unpredictable nature of birding kicked in—it took time, but patience paid off when this magnificent bird finally strutted into view!

While waiting, we kept busy with Short-tailed Babbler, Ferruginous Babbler, Malaysian Blue Flycatcher, and Emerald Dove. We missed out on Western Hooded Pitta (Sunda) here, but that’s the game!

Into the Canopy Walkways (Rainforest Discovery Centre, Sepilok)

Moving eastward to Sepilok, we squeezed in an afternoon, a night walk, and a morning session at the Rainforest Discovery Centre (RDC):

 Sunbirds & Spiderhunters: Brown-throated, Red-throated, Plain, and Ruby-cheeked Sunbirds, along with Purple-naped and Long-billed Spiderhunters.

 Canopy & Night Action: Oriental Pied Hornbill, Long-tailed Parakeet, Blue-crowned Hanging-Parrot, Baya Weaver, Gray-hooded Babbler, and a fantastic night view of an Oriental Bay Owl.

Riverine Paradise (Kinabatangan River)

The multi-night stay on the Kinabatangan River was the ultimate finale. Cruising the waterways brought us face-to-face with river giants and incredible canopy life:

 The Hornbill Sweep: A phenomenal 8-hornbill species total! (Oriental Pied, Black, Bushy-crested, Wrinkled, Wreathed, Rhinoceros, Helmeted, and White-crowned Hornbill).

 River & Wetland Targets: Storm’s Stork, Lesser Adjutant, Oriental Darter, Grey-headed Fish-Eagle, Stork-billed Kingfisher, Blue-eared Kingfisher, Blue-throated Bee-eater, Dollarbird, and Green Imperial-Pigeon.

 The Pitta Redemption: After dipping earlier, we finally landed a magnificent Western Hooded Pitta along the riverbanks—what a relief!

 Night Cruise: Spotted 3 Buffy Fish-Owls perched along the water's edge and heard an Oriental Bay Owl calling at close range.

Final Farewell

Before heading to the airport on our last day, we returned to RDC one last time to add Olive-winged Bulbul, Brown Barbet, Crimson Sunbird, and Greater Racket-tailed Drongo to the trip tally.

9 days, hundreds of kilometers, dozens of endemics, and endless memories. We said our goodbyes at the airport, already looking forward to the next wild trail!

SABAH 9-DAY EXPLORATION CHECKLIST (AUG 2026)

Locations: Klias, KK, Crocker Range, Trusmadi, Ranau, Sepilok (RDC), Kinabatangan River

Ducks, Geese & Waterfowl (Anatidae)

 Wandering Whistling-Duck (Dendrocygna arcualis)

Pheasants, Grouse & Allies (Phasianidae)

 Blue-breasted Quail (Synoicus chinensis) — Heard only

 Crimson-headed Partridge (Haematortyx sanguiniceps) [Bornean Endemic]

 Red-breasted Partridge (Arborophila hyperythra) [Bornean Endemic]

 Crested Partridge (Rollulus rouloul)

 Bornean Peacock-Pheasant (Polyplectron schleiermacheri) [Bornean Endemic]

Pigeons & Doves (Columbidae)

 Rock Pigeon (Columba livia)

 Spotted Dove (Spilopelia chinensis)

 Little Cuckoo-Dove (Macropygia ruficeps)

 Emerald Dove (Chalcophaps indica)

 Green Imperial-Pigeon (Ducula aenea)

 Mountain Imperial-Pigeon (Ducula badia)

Cuckoos (Cuculidae)

 Violet Cuckoo (Chrysococcyx xanthorhynchus)

Owls (Strigidae)

 Oriental Bay Owl (Phodilus badius)

 Buffy Fish-Owl (Ketupa ketupu)

Storks (Ciconiidae)

 Storm's Stork (Ciconia stormi)

 Lesser Adjutant (Leptoptilos javanicus)

Anhingas (Anhingidae)

 Oriental Darter (Anhinga melanogaster)

Herons, Egrets & Bitterns (Ardeidae)

 Nankeen Night-Heron (Nycticorax caledonicus)

 Pacific Reef-Heron / Egret (Egretta sacra)

Hawks, Eagles & Kites (Accipitridae)

 Grey-headed Fish-Eagle (Icthyophaga ichthyaetus)

 Brahminy Kite (Haliastur indus)

Hornbills (Bucerotidae)

 White-crowned Hornbill (Berenicornis comatus)

 Bushy-crested Hornbill (Anorrhinus galleryi)

 Helmeted Hornbill (Rhinoplax vigil)

 Rhinoceros Hornbill (Buceros rhinoceros)

 Black Hornbill (Anthracoceros malayanus)

 Oriental Pied-Hornbill (Anthracoceros albirostris)

 Wreathed Hornbill (Rhyticeros undulatus)

 Wrinkled Hornbill (Rhabdotorrhinus corrugatus)

Rollers (Coraciidae)

 Dollarbird (Eurystomus orientalis)

Kingfishers (Alcedinidae)

 Blue-eared Kingfisher (Alcedo atthis)

 Stork-billed Kingfisher (Pelargopsis capensis)

Bee-eaters (Meropidae)

 Blue-throated Bee-eater (Merops viridis)

Asian Barbets (Megalaimidae)

 Brown Barbet (Calorhamphus fuliginosus) [Bornean Endemic]

 Blue-eared Barbet (Psilopogon duvaucelii) — Logged as Black-eared

 Red-crowned Barbet (Psilopogon rafflesii)

 Golden-naped Barbet (Psilopogon pulcherrimus) [Bornean Endemic]

 Gold-whiskered / Gold-faced Barbet (Psilopogon chrysopsis) [Bornean Subspecies/Endemic]

 Mountain Barbet (Psilopogon monticola) [Bornean Endemic]

 Bornean Barbet (Psilopogon eximius) [Bornean Endemic]

Falcons & Caracaras (Falconidae)

 White-fronted Falconet (Microhierax latifrons) [Bornean Endemic]

Old World Parrots (Psittaculidae)

 Long-tailed Parakeet (Psittacula longicauda)

 Blue-crowned Hanging-Parrot (Loriculus galgulus)

Pittas (Pittidae)

 Bornean Banded-Pitta (Hydrornis schwaneri) [Bornean Endemic]

 Western Hooded Pitta (Pitta sordida abbotti / cucullata)

Woodswallows (Artamidae)

 White-breasted Woodswallow (Artamus leucorynchus)

Cuckoo-shrikes & Minivets (Campephagidae)

 Ashy Drongo (Dicrurus leucophaeus)

 Greater Racket-tailed Drongo (Dicrurus paradiseus)

Crows, Jays & Magpies (Corvidae)

 Bornean Treepie (Dendrocitta cinerascens) [Bornean Endemic]

Swallows (Hirundinidae)

 Pacific Swallow (Hirundo tahitica)

Fairy-wrens, Tits & Allies (Paridae / Aegithalidae)

 Bold-striped Tit-Babbler (Mixornis bornensis)

Bulbuls (Pycnonotidae)

 Olive-winged Bulbul (Pycnonotus plumosus)

 Bornean Bulbul (Rubigula montis) [Bornean Endemic]

 Penan Bulbul (Alophoixus ruficrissus) [Bornean Endemic]

Leafwarblers & Grassbirds (Locustellidae / Phylloscopidae)

 Yellow-breasted Warbler (Abroscopus superciliaris)

White-eyes & Yuhinas (Zosteropidae)

 Pygmy Heleia / White-eye (Oculocincta squamifrons) [Bornean Endemic]

 Chestnut-crested Yuhina (Yuhina everetti) [Bornean Endemic]

Babblers, Scimitar-Babblers & Allies (Timaliidae)

 Sunda Scimitar-Babbler (Pomatorhinus bornensis)

 Grey-hooded Babbler (Cyanoderma erythropterum)

 Rufous-fronted Babbler (Cyanoderma rufifrons)

 Short-tailed Babbler (Pellorneum malaccense)

 Temminck's Babbler (Pellorneum pyrrogenys)

 Ferruginous Babbler (Pellorneum bicolor)

 White-chested Babbler (Pellorneum rostratum)

Laughingthrushes (Leiothrichidae)

 Sunda Laughingthrush (Garrulax palliatus)

 Chestnut-hooded Laughingthrush (Ianthocincla treacheri) [Bornean Endemic]

Thrushes & Allies (Turdidae)

 Orange-headed Thrush (Geokichla citrina)

Old World Flycatchers (Muscicapidae)

 Oriental Magpie-Robin (Copsychus saularis)

 White-crowned Shama (Copsychus stricklandii) [Bornean Endemic]

 Rufous-chested Flycatcher (Ficedula dumetoria)

 Snowy-browed Flycatcher (Ficedula hyperythra)

 Little Pied Flycatcher (Ficedula westermanni)

 Indigo Flycatcher (Cyornis indigo)

 Dayak Blue Flycatcher (Cyornis montanus) [Bornean Endemic]

 Malaysian Blue Flycatcher (Cyornis turcosus)

 Bornean Shortwing (Brachypteryx erythrogyna) [Bornean Endemic]

Leafbirds (Irenidae / Chloropseidae)

 Bornean Leafbird (Chloropsis kinabaluensis) [Bornean Endemic]

Flowerpeckers (Dicaeidae)

 Yellow-rumped Flowerpecker (Prionochilus xanthopygius) [Bornean Endemic]

 Scarlet-backed Flowerpecker (Dicaeum cruentatum)

 Orange-bellied Flowerpecker (Dicaeum trigonostigma)

 Yellow-vented Flowerpecker (Dicaeum chrysorrheum)

Sunbirds & Spiderhunters (Nectariniidae)

 Ruby-cheeked Sunbird (Chalcoparia singalensis)

 Plain Sunbird (Anthreptes simplex)

 Brown-throated Sunbird (Anthreptes malacensis)

 Red-throated Sunbird (Anthreptes rhodolaema)

 Crimson Sunbird (Aethopyga siparaja)

 Temminck's Sunbird (Aethopyga temminckii)

 Purple-naped Spiderhunter (Kurocheckia hypogrammica)

 Long-billed Spiderhunter (Arachnothera robusta)

Shrikes (Laniidae)

 Long-tailed Shrike (Lanius schach)

Starlings & Mynas (Sturnidae)

 Asian Glossy Starling (Aplonis panayensis)

 Hill Myna (Gracula religiosa)

 Javan Myna (Acridotheres javanicus)

Weavers & Widows (Ploceidae)

 Baya Weaver (Ploceus philippinus)

Waxbills, Munias & Allies (Estrildidae)

 Chestnut Munia (Lonchura atricapilla)

 Dusky Munia (Lonchura fuscans) [Bornean Endemic]

 Java Sparrow (Lonchura oryzivora)

Here is the extracted list of all 22 Bornean endemic species recorded during your 9-day Sabah exploration, categorized by the locations where you encountered them:

1. Crocker Range (Montane Endemics)

 Crimson-headed Partridge (Haematortyx sanguiniceps)

 Note: Sighted along roadside stations and montane forest trails.

 Bornean Treepie (Dendrocitta cinerascens)

 Note: Active along roadside canopies throughout the high elevations.

 Bornean Shortwing (Brachypteryx erythrogyna)

 Note: Skulking in the cool, mossy understory along the trail edges.

 Bornean Whistler (Pachycephala hypoxantha)

 Note: Frequently joining mixed-species feeding flocks in the montane forest.

2. Trusmadi (Hide & Deep Forest Endemics)

 Red-breasted Partridge (Arborophila hyperythra)

 Note: Excellent ground views from the forest hide.

 Bornean Banded-Pitta (Hydrornis schwaneri)

 Note: A major trip highlight observed stepping out near the hide setup.

 Bornean Barbet (Psilopogon eximius)

 Note: Spotted in the mid-to-upper canopy along the forest road.

 Mountain Barbet (Psilopogon monticola)

 Note: Heard calls echoing across the valleys before securing canopy views.

 Bornean Bulbul (Rubigula montis)

 Note: Active in fruiting trees near the forest edge.

 Penan Bulbul (Alophoixus ruficrissus)

 Note: Noisy foliage gleaner recorded around the hide perches.

 Bornean Leafbird (Chloropsis kinabaluensis)

 Note: Foraging high in the sunlit sub-canopy.

 Chestnut-crested Yuhina (Yuhina everetti)

 Note: Very common and vocal in energetic roving flocks.

 Pygmy Heleia (Oculocincta squamifrons)

 Note: high-canopy activity noted along the trail and eventually came low for great views

 Dayak Blue Flycatcher (Cyornis montanus)

 Note: Understory flycatcher recorded from the hide perches.

 White-crowned Shama (Copsychus stricklandii)

 Note: Vocal singer providing great views around the hide and trails.

3. Ranau & Hide Pursuit

 Bornean Peacock-Pheasant (Polyplectron schleiermacheri)

 Note: The ultimate prize of the trip—finally strutted into view after a patient wait at the specialized hide.

 Gold-faced Barbet (Psilopogon chrysopsis)

 Note: Observed in the sub-canopy during a short afternoon birding session (recognized as the distinct Bornean endemic/subspecies).

 White-fronted Falconet (Microhierax latifrons)

 Note: Perched high on dead snags

4. Sepilok & Lowland Foothills

 Brown Barbet (Calorhamphus fuliginosus)

 Note: Recorded along Kinabatangan River and at the Rainforest Discovery Centre (RDC).

5. Kinabatangan River & Coastal Lowlands

 Dusky Munia (Lonchura fuscans)

 Note: Common in small flocks around open grassy edges from Klias to Kinabatangan.

 Yellow-rumped Flowerpecker (Prionochilus xanthopygius)

 Note: Tiny canopy specialist recorded visiting flowering trees.

6. Widespread Montane Cross-Over

 Chestnut-hooded Laughingthrush (Ianthocincla treacheri)

 Note: Found across both Crocker Range and Trusmadi; ubiquitous and highly inquisitive.

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