Incredible Birdwatching in Tabin: Rare Birds You Can See in Borneo

Marriea Travels June 18, 2025

A pair of binoculars and neutral-toned clothing laid out for a birdwatching trip in Tabin Wildlife Reserve- birdwatching in Tabin

Introduction: Why Tabin is a Birdwatcher's Paradise

Tucked away in the eastern lowlands of Sabah, birdwatching in Tabin Wildlife Reserve offers a magical immersion into one of Borneo’s richest biodiversity hotspots. As part of one of the largest protected rainforests in Malaysia, Tabin Wildlife Reserve is not only teeming with wildlife but is also home to over 300 species of birds.

From the early morning mist that shrouds the jungle canopy to the vibrant melodies echoing through the trees, every moment spent here is a treat for the senses. Birdwatchers from around the world make the journey to Tabin not just for the rare species, but for the tranquil, immersive atmosphere that allows for peaceful and uninterrupted observation in nature.

Unlike more commercialized reserves, birdwatching in Tabin is raw, authentic, and deeply rewarding. The experience isn't about rushing from sighting to sighting but about embracing the rhythm of the rainforest and letting the birds reveal themselves in their own time.

This guide to birdwatching in Tabin Wildlife Reserve will help you uncover rare birds, the best viewing seasons, and how to plan the ultimate birding adventure in Borneo.

How to Get to Tabin Wildlife Reserve

How exactly does one get to Tabin Wildlife Reserve?

Most travelers begin their trip by flying into Lahad Datu Airport, a small but well-connected gateway town located on Borneo’s eastern coast. From there, a 1.5 to 2-hour drive takes you through palm oil plantations, rolling hills, and pockets of secondary forest before reaching the entrance to Tabin Wildlife Reserve. Though remote, the journey is scenic and gives you a glimpse of the contrasts between developed land and the untouched rainforest you’re about to explore.

While some adventurous travelers opt for self-drive options, it’s highly recommended to pre-arrange transfers with licensed tour operators or through eco-lodges within the reserve. This ensures you’re transported safely over sometimes rugged terrain.

Most birdwatching in Tabin packages already have round-trip transfers, meals, and guided excursions, making it easy to plan your trip without worry. Once you arrive, the serenity of the jungle and the sound of birdsong assure you that the journey was well worth the effort.

What Makes Tabin Unique for Birdwatching

What sets birdwatching in Tabin apart is the purity and accessibility of its rainforest ecosystem. Covering over 122,000 hectares, Tabin’s terrain includes lowland dipterocarp forest that is ideal for hosting a wide range of bird species.

The diversity of habitats within the reserve—from riverbanks to dense undergrowth and open canopies—offers birdwatchers a rare opportunity to encounter species in varied environments, all within a relatively compact area. This natural mosaic makes it easier to track different birds at different elevations and behaviors throughout the day.

The quiet nature of the reserve means fewer disturbances and a more intimate birding experience. Professional guides with in-depth knowledge of the bird calls, roosting areas, and migration patterns enhance the quality of each birdwatching trip.

Birdwatching in Tabin isn’t just about ticking off a checklist; it’s about connecting with the wild, understanding the fragile ecosystems that support these species, and appreciating every sighting as a privilege.

The sense of discovery and reverence for nature is what makes this place truly exceptional for birders.

Rare Birds You Can See in Tabin

The star attractions for birders in Tabin are the rare and endemic birds that are often hard to spot elsewhere in Borneo. Here are just a few you might encounter:

1. Bornean Bristlehead

Among the most sought-after sightings during birdwatching in Tabin is the elusive and mysterious Bornean Bristlehead. Endemic to Borneo, this bird is rarely seen and almost never photographed clearly, making it a legendary prize among serious birders.

With its vivid red head, black wings, and unusual bristly crown, the Bornean Bristlehead stands out as one of the most unique birds in Southeast Asia. But what truly makes it special is its unpredictable behavior—it travels in small flocks, moves quickly through the canopy, and often remains silent until it's right above you.

2. Rhinoceros Hornbill

The Rhinoceros Hornbill is perhaps the most iconic bird in Sabah, and spotting one while birdwatching in Tabin is a moment that stays with you forever. With its massive size, bold black-and-white feathers, and striking orange casque, the hornbill is often referred to as the “guardian of the forest.”

These birds play a crucial ecological role, dispersing seeds across large areas of rainforest. In Tabin’s vast canopy, their unmistakable wingbeat and echoing calls signal their arrival long before you see them swooping between trees.

3. Black-and-Crimson Pitta

The Black-and-Crimson Pitta is a favorite among those birdwatching in Tabin, known for its dazzling coloration and secretive nature. With deep crimson underparts and sleek black plumage, this forest-floor dweller is a challenge to spot but incredibly rewarding when you do.

Unlike more vocal species, pittas rely on soft, fluting calls and short, darting movements through the undergrowth. They prefer low light conditions and thick foliage, often blending perfectly into the environment.

What makes this pitta species special is the silent excitement it creates when finally sighted. You may follow a call for several minutes, crouching and scanning carefully before a flash of red alerts you to its presence. For photographers, capturing the Black-and-Crimson Pitta is often a highlight of birdwatching in Tabin, but even those without a camera find themselves awestruck by the rare moment.

4. Blue-headed Pitta

Among the rare jewels of birdwatching in Tabin, the Blue-headed Pitta stands out for its electric plumage and rarity. The vibrant blue crown contrasts beautifully with its reddish-brown body, creating a flash of color that is unforgettable when spotted on the jungle floor.

It’s a species many birders have on their “most-wanted” list, not only because of its beauty but also due to its shy behavior and preference for thick, shaded habitat.

Your best chance of seeing the Blue-headed Pitta comes on trails like Lipad Waterfall, where experienced guides track the soft calls and subtle movements that often give away its presence.

Those lucky enough to see one are often left speechless—watching it hop and forage through the undergrowth is like witnessing a tropical secret unfold before your eyes.

5. Great Argus Pheasant

The Great Argus is one of the largest and most dramatic birds you can hope to see while birdwatching in Tabin. This ground-dwelling pheasant is known for its remarkable courtship display, where the male spreads his long, eye-spotted feathers into a fan to impress a mate.

With a wingspan that can exceed two meters and elaborate patterns resembling a peacock’s tail, the Great Argus is an unforgettable sight, if you’re lucky enough to witness it.

Spotting a Great Argus requires quiet tracking through the forest floor, where these shy birds forage and nest. Their low, booming call can sometimes be heard before dawn, alerting birders to their presence. Seeing one in the wild, especially during a courtship ritual, is a rare privilege and a highlight of birdwatching in Tabin.

When to Go: Best Time for Birdwatching in Tabin

For those planning a trip focused on birdwatching in Tabin, timing is everything. The best months to visit are between March and October, when Sabah experiences its driest weather and the forest trails are more accessible.

During this period, many birds are nesting or active in the mornings and late afternoons, creating optimal conditions for both sightings and photography. The lighting during sunrise and sunset enhances visibility, and the cooler temperatures make it more comfortable for long birding treks.

Even during the wetter months, the birding opportunities remain promising. Tabin’s tropical rainforest climate means that most bird species are resident and active year-round, with seasonal migrants passing through in the later months of the year.

For avid birders seeking to witness both endemic and migratory species in one trip, birdwatching in Tabin during the shoulder months of September and November can be particularly rewarding. Regardless of when you go, the rainforest always offers surprises—you just need to be still, present, and ready.

To learn more about the weather analysis in Tabin Wildlife Reserve, read: Best time to visit Tabin for wildlife tours

Top Birdwatching Trails and Hotspots in Tabin

1. Lumut Trail

A relatively easy trail that winds through mature forest, the Lumut Trail is ideal for spotting pittas, flycatchers, and bulbuls.

2. Mud Volcano Observation Deck

Though famous for its wildlife, the mud volcano observation deck is also a prime location for birders. The open canopy offers better light and wider visibility for spotting hornbills and eagles.

3. Lipad Waterfall Trail

A bit more rugged but deeply rewarding, this trail offers a chance to spot multiple pitta species, including the elusive blue-banded pitta.

4. Riverbank Walks

Birds such as kingfishers, herons, and bee-eaters are often seen perched along the Lipad River, especially in the early morning light.

Bird Photography in Tabin: A Hidden Gem

For photographers, birdwatching in Tabin presents a unique canvas of light, color, and wildlife behavior. The forest’s thick canopy creates dramatic rays of light that filter through the trees, illuminating birds perched high above or fluttering across the trail.

Species such as the Blue-headed Pitta or the Black-and-crimson Pitta seem to pose naturally against the lush backdrop, making every shot frame-worthy.

The stillness of Tabin and the guidance of local experts give photographers time and space to compose their perfect images without the rush or crowding found in more commercial locations.

Seasoned bird photographers often return to Tabin for the sheer variety of subjects and the chance to capture rare behaviors—like the display dance of the Great Argus or the feeding rituals of hornbills.

Many of the birdwatching tours offered in the reserve cater specifically to photographers, providing early morning hikes, access to hides, and tips from experienced guides.

With every click of the shutter, birdwatching in Tabin reveals a deeper story of the rainforest—one that’s best told through both patience and a keen eye for detail.

Best Eco-Lodge in Tabin for Birdwatchers: Tabin Wildlife Resort

One of the best bases for birdwatching in Tabin is the well-established Tabin Wildlife Resort. Situated beside the Lipad River, this eco-lodge is purposefully designed for nature lovers and birdwatchers alike.

Each chalet offers a private balcony overlooking the forest, allowing you to begin your birdwatching experience before even stepping outside. The lodge’s proximity to key birding trails and the mud volcano area makes it a strategic and comfortable place to stay.

The resort also prioritizes sustainable practices, using local materials, hiring community guides, and offering environmentally conscious amenities. Staff are trained in biodiversity interpretation and are enthusiastic about sharing insights into the surrounding flora and fauna.

From pre-dawn wake-up calls to hot drinks served before morning treks, everything is designed with birders in mind. Birdwatching in Tabin becomes more enriching when you’re based in a place that aligns with both conservation values and guest comfort.

Tabin Wildlife Resort Details:

Tel No. : +6 088 267266
Website :https://tabinwildlife.com.my/

What to Bring for Birdwatching in Tabin

Packing right is essential for a successful birdwatching experience. Here’s what you’ll need:

Lightweight binoculars or spotting scope
Bird identification guide for Borneo
Neutral-colored clothing
Rain gear and quick-dry apparel
Insect repellent and sun protection
Waterproof hiking shoes
Camera with telephoto lens (if photographing)

Final Thoughts: Discover the Wild Side of Sabah

Birdwatching in Tabin is a meaningful encounter with nature at its purest. The quiet of the jungle, broken only by the call of a distant hornbill or the flutter of a pitta through the undergrowth, creates a setting that feels almost otherworldly.

Whether you’re waking up to misty forest views from your eco-lodge or standing still with binoculars in hand hoping to spot a bristlehead, each moment in Tabin is a gift. This is not just a place to see birds—it’s where you begin to understand your place within the rhythm of the rainforest.

For anyone serious about planning the ultimate nature escape, birdwatching in Tabin is just the beginning.

To fully unlock the beauty, logistics, and conservation insights of this extraordinary reserve, we recommend reading: The Ultimate Tabin Wildlife Reserve Travel Guide 2025. It’s your all-in-one resource for making the most of your trip—whether you're a solo birder, wildlife photographer, or eco-tourist at heart.

Let Tabin open your eyes, calm your soul, and remind you why Sabah is one of the last great frontiers for biodiversity in Southeast Asia.

FAQs: Birdwatching in Tabin Wildlife Reserve

1. What makes birdwatching in Tabin different from other places in Borneo?

Birdwatching in Tabin is unique because of its lowland dipterocarp forest, which hosts over 300 bird species, including rare endemics like the Bornean Bristlehead. Unlike busier reserves, Tabin offers a more intimate, tranquil experience ideal for both new and seasoned birders.

2. When is the best time for birdwatching in Tabin Wildlife Reserve?

3. Can beginner birders join a birdwatching tour in Tabin?

4. What kind of birds can I expect to see during birdwatching in Tabin?

5. How do I get to Tabin for a birdwatching tour?

Join a Birdwatching Tour with EcoTour Malaysia

If you're ready to experience the wonder of birdwatching in Tabin, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. At EcoTour Malaysia, we curate deeply personal, nature-connected experiences designed to bring you closer to the rare and beautiful birdlife of Borneo.

We understand that for birders, every trip is more than a holiday. It's about finding moments of quiet joy, spotting a bird you've only dreamed of, and being in the right place at the right time.

That’s why our team handles all the little details—transfers, eco-lodges, expert local guides—so you can focus on what matters most: soaking in the sights and sounds of the rainforest.

Our birdwatching in Tabin tours are crafted with respect for the environment and a passion for wildlife discovery. Whether it's your first time with binoculars or your hundredth birding expedition, we’ll match you with guides who care as much about your experience as they do about conservation.

Let us help you experience birdwatching in Tabin the way it was meant to be: wild, unforgettable, and soul-stirring.

➡️When you’re ready, contact us via our page for personalized assistance and to start an unforgettable bird journey into the heart of Tabin’s rainforest.

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