History & background

Birding is observing and watching birds in their natural habitats. Contrary to general saying, birding is not for old ladies. Birding is the hobbies of thousands of nature lovers worldwide and there are countless societies devoted to this activity. The most famous is of course the Audubon Society of America.

 In Malaysia, birders are mainly MNS members who take to the liking of watching our feathered friends. The biggest group of birders is located in Selangor branch, followed by Penang branch. Regular outings to observe and appreciate birds are organized to various locations such as Fraser’s Hill, Cameron Highlands, Kuala Selangor, Kuala Gula, etc.

Why bird watching?

Simply because they are there and easily seen. There are well over 600 species of birds in Malaysia, and our country is blessed with a rich bird life. Compared to say wild animal watching, birding is so much more rewarding simply because any amateur with a pair of binoculars will be able to see and appreciate the many varied species literally right in the home backyards.

Birding will lead to a love for the ornithological species and ultimately the conservation of them.

What you need……

A pair of binoculars, fairly good eye-sight, a strong neck, a lot of patience, some old and drab clothing’s, and a guide books on birds (suggestions: A Guide to the Birds of Thailand by or Birds of SE Asia by B. King)

Good Birding Sites in Kedah & Perlis

Forests Reserve of Universiti Utara at Sintok, Gunong Jerai forest reserve (including all the way up to the resort, Merbok Candi archeological museum area, Sg Tupah, Bukit Hampar waterfall in Yan) , Bukit Wang Waterfall, Muda Dam, Pedu Lake Resort area, Ulu Legong in Baling, Lata Bukit Hijau Waterfall in Kulim, Bukit Damar Sg Petani, Gunong Raja Pulau Langkawi, Ulu Muda Forest reserve)

MNS Kedah’s Birding group

Formed by Janice Lim in 1997 and has a handful of beginners. Enthusiasm is there but lacks expert guidance. Since the departure of Janice, this group is taken over by Phang. His contact number is 04-4211027 (O) or 04-4226305(H). If you re interested to join this group or wants to know more about birding, please call him or email him at: phangsl@tm.net.my

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