Bird Watching in Sabang: A Rich Avian Experience

*Heri Tarmizi

Bird watching in Sabang 

 Introduction

Sabang, a small town located at the northern tip of Indonesia, is renowned for its rich biodiversity and vibrant birdlife. This tropical paradise offers an ideal setting for bird watchers, with its lush forests and serene environment attracting a wide variety of bird species. Among the many birds that can be observed in Sabang, the Hill Myna stands out as a dominant presence, captivating bird enthusiasts with its striking appearance and melodious calls. This article delves into a recent bird-watching excursion in Sabang, detailing the species observed and emphasizing the prominence of the Hill Myna.

 The Excursion

The bird-watching adventure commenced at 05:40 AM, a time when the avian world is most active. Early morning is often the best time for bird watching, as many species are more vocal and easier to spot. As the sun began to rise, casting a golden hue over the landscape, the rich and diverse birdlife of Sabang started to reveal itself.

 Species Observed

During this excursion, a total of 25 bird species were spotted. This remarkable diversity is a testament to Sabang's thriving ecosystems and its importance as a habitat for many bird species. Below are some of the key species observed during the bird-watching session:

1. Hill Myna (Gracula religiosa): The Hill Myna was the most frequently observed species, with their loud, distinctive calls resonating throughout the area. Known for their striking black plumage with bright yellow wattles and beak, Hill Mynas are also capable mimics, often replicating human speech and other sounds.

Common Hill Myna image source Google

2. Racket-tailed Drongo (Dicrurus paradiseus): These birds are easily identifiable by their long, forked tails with webbed tips. Racket-tailed Drongos are known for their agile flight and impressive vocal mimicry, often imitating the calls of other birds.

Racket tailed Drongo image source Google

3. Yellow-vented Bulbul (Pycnonotus goiavier): A common sight in Sabang, these bulbuls are characterized by their olive-brown upperparts and distinctive yellow vent. Their melodious songs add a cheerful note to the morning chorus.

Yellow-vented bulbul image source google

4. Sunbirds (Family Nectariniidae): Various species of sunbirds, small and vividly colored, were observed darting among flowers, feeding on nectar. Their iridescent plumage and rapid movements make them a delightful sight for bird watchers.

Ollive backed sunbirds Image source Google

5. Flow Pecker (Indicatoridae): Also known as honeyguides, these birds are known for their unique relationship with humans, leading people to bee nests. In Sabang, their presence indicates a healthy and balanced ecosystem.

Flow pecker Image source Google

6. Swallows (Family Hirundinidae):  Numerous swallows were seen skimming over water bodies and open fields, showcasing their acrobatic flight skills. These migratory birds are a common sight during certain times of the year.

 Dominance of the Hill Myna

The Hill Myna's dominance in Sabang is particularly noteworthy. These birds are not only abundant but also highly conspicuous due to their loud, varied calls and striking appearance. Their preference for open woodlands and cultivated areas makes them a frequent sight in both natural and human-modified landscapes. Hill Mynas play a significant role in their ecosystem, contributing to seed dispersal and serving as indicators of environmental health.

The Importance of Bird Watching

Bird watching is more than a recreational activity; it is a crucial tool for conservation and scientific research. Observations made by bird watchers contribute valuable data on bird populations, migration patterns, and habitat use. In regions like Sabang, where biodiversity is both rich and vulnerable, bird watching helps raise awareness about the importance of preserving natural habitats.

Conclusion

Sabang offers an exceptional bird-watching experience, with its diverse bird species and picturesque landscapes. The prominence of the Hill Myna among the observed species highlights the ecological richness of the area. This bird-watching excursion not only provided an opportunity to appreciate the beauty of Sabang's avian inhabitants but also underscored the importance of conservation efforts to protect these valuable ecosystems.

Bibliography

- Craig, A. J. F. K., & Feare, C. J. (2009). Starlings and Mynas. Princeton University Press.

- Ali, S., & Ripley, S. D. (1987). Handbook of the Birds of India and Pakistan. Oxford University Press.

- Fry, C. H., & Fry, K. (1999). Kingfishers, Bee-eaters, and Rollers: A Handbook. Christopher Helm.

- Grimmett, R., Inskipp, C., & Inskipp, T. (2011). Birds of the Indian Subcontinent. Helm Field Guides.

- Sheldon, F. H., Moyle, R. G., & Kennard, J. (2001). Ornithology of Sabah: History, Gazetteer, Annotated Checklist, and Bibliography. American Museum of Natural History.