The genus Spilornis is represented by 2 species in Borneo, the widespread and Borneo’s most common raptor S. cheela (Crested Serpent-eagle) and the rare endemic S. kinabaluensis (Mountain Serpent-eagle) occupying the montane habitats not frequented by the former.

The Mountain Serpent-eagle is distinguished from the Crested Serpent-eagle by having longer wings, a darker plumage with black throat and broader white band on the tail.  When seen flying  from a long distance, it is probably easier to id from the voice, with the final note of the Mountain being more sustained.

Mountain Serpent-eagle, Mt Kinabalu

Crested Serpent-eagle, Tabin Wildlife Resort

While the debate goes on whether Copsychus stricklandi should be lumped together with White-rumped Shama, visiting birders to Borneo should note  that you can only see the “White-crowned”  in the north, or otherwise known as the political entity of Sabah.  For those who persist on seeing the White-rumped, you might find success in the pet shops around Kota Kinabalu, this because of lax enforcement of this protected species (a fine songster) and continued trapping in the south (Borneo).  To untrained ears like mine, the songs of both species sound very similar but I have met pet shop keepers who insist that White-rumped Shamas from the wild have a wider “variety” in calls.

Sorry I guess I have just added a little more fuel to the debate.

The Black-sided Flowerpecker Dicaeum monticolum is one of 2 endemic flowerpeckers in Borneo.  It is a common montane species and can be seen easily in Mt Kinabalu and other mountain ranges.  Around Kinabalu Park Headquarters, it is often seen feeding on the ripe berries of the Pink Medinella.  When in flight, it announces itself with a series of metallic zit calls.

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.