Bird Watching On The Hills of Genting Highlands
Although some people say that bird watching is a seasonal hobby and no doubt, watching migratory birds is a seasonal sport, bird watching is an all-year-round activity on the hills of Genting Highlands due to the area’s rich biodiversity.
From as early as 7am, particularly on Sundays, one could see many serious bird watching hobbyists set up their equipment after they have staked out a place. ‘Equipment’ here includes a powerful pair of binoculars and a long-lens DSLR camera as well as a comfortable chair and drinking water. Yes, they are ready for the unpredictable long wait if required. After all, this is the way the game is played.
I have been on numerous bird-watching trips before and while I had marvelled at the beauty of the larger birds as they take flight with open wings, I have never bothered to find out their species or remember their names after my trip was over.
Having no particular interest in bird-watching, it is not an activity that I would plan for my family should we take a vacation at Genting Highlands. But after my weekend nature exploration to the hills, I have changed my perception. This is exactly what every family should do when they are in Genting Highlands, or even elsewhere that is as rich as Genting in biodiversity.
Having the Malaysian Nature Society (MNS) President, no less, lead our delegation was an eye-opening experience. I would have walked past birds calling and not realise it, thinking it is just part and parcel of the sounds of a forest, if not for Mr. Henry Goh.
But with the expertise of Henry, the birds were easily identified; first from their distinctive call, then the colours and features of their feathers. From just a short morning out, we managed to spot the Stripe-throated BulBul, Little Cuckoo Dove, Asian Glossy Starling, Yellow-vented Bulbul, Black-browed Barbet, Long-tailed Sibia, Bushy-crested Hornbill and Rhinoceros Hornbill. Besides these birds, we also found a Dusky Leaf monkey.
Birds, and in fact all animals, are very sensitive. Therefore, we have to keep our voices low and allow at least 30 metres of distance to view a bird. This is their comfort zone. Any closer than that and they would take flight.
There are many other bird species in this area. Previously spotted by other bird-watching enthusiasts were the Velvet-fronted Nuthatch, Orange-breasted Trogon, Cutia, Snowy-browed Flycatcher and numerous others. If only we had more time to search.
When I think about it, I realise how important it is to conserve the area so that we can show the younger generations these very beautiful and colourful birds. I am just lost for words by the wonders of nature.
Bird watching is a special-interest eco-friendly family-oriented activity organised by Treks Nature Enterprise with Resorts World Genting. The price is RM250 per person.
For further information or to make a reservation, contact Treks Nature Enterprise at +6010-401 5262 (Eddie Chan or Pat Ang) during regular office hours. Or log on to treks.events. The company’s official Facebook is Treks.
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This is new to me! I didn’t know we can actually do bird watching in Genting Highlands! I can suggest this to my photography buddies now. Haha.
I don’t really like jungle trekking but your photos make me want to explore. Looks fun.
Wow.. so wish to join you for bird watching.. I wanna learn on the photography skill^^
Didn’t know we can do such activities in Genting?? RM250 is quite a good call!
What a great experience! I have seen people doing similar event near Fraser Hill too! :))
Great shots of the birds! I was just enjoying the scenery that morning. Nice meeting you in person too
That’s actually a nice outdoor activity (I am not an outdoor activity person, unless it’s the beach) I could even use my DSLR cam again…