It was two years ago today when my friend and bird photographer Karim Madoya took photos of the first Buff-banded Rail Gallirallus philippensis in Borneo.  Since then this illusive bird has been seen on different occasions by local birders, most recently in the paddy fields of Penampang near Kota Kinabalu.  The birds we saw were typically secretive, appearing only during dawn and dusk.  However luck was with me with this very confiding bird, preening itself after having taken a dip in the nearby pool.  I must say it is a most welcomed addition to the birds of Borneo.

Golden-naped Barbet by Ck Leong

The Golden-naped Barbet Megalaima pulcherrima is undoubtedly the most common barbet in the mountains of Borneo.  Regular birders to Mt Kinabalu will be very familair with the bird’s took-took-trrook call.  The visitor who has yet to spot the bird will face a lot of frustration as the calls are heard throughout the day.  Having spotted it, you will be amply rewarded with the beautiful blue and green colours of the bird.

The Little Cuckoo-dove Macropygia ruficeps is a common resident of the montane forest of Borneo.  It makes  quick flights with its powerful wings and forages in mid-storey and canopy of flowering trees.  At rest, it announces itself with a distinct and repeated wook wook.  For the birder, there is a much higher chance of seeing it in flight  than perched.

Much have been said about the nesting habits of hornbills.  Additionally the White-crowned Hornbill Berenicornis comatus is also one of those hornbills which occasionally practices co-operative breeding where other birds will take their turn at feeding the imprisoned female.  I saw this particular male bird foraging at almost ground level.  On all previous occasions, I saw them at around the middle storey of the forest.  I continue to be impressed with the fantastic white crest.