::EASY ACCESS SITES::
For the first-time bird watcher or the avid amateur, there are three excellent bird watching sites within a few hours drive from Kuala Lumpur. These sites are easily accessible by bus or car and are equipped with a variety of accommodation for those who wish to spend time away from the city.

Fraser's Hill and Cameron Highlands both offer lush green surroundings with panoramic views and walkable hiking trails where bird life abound. For a pleasant day trip, check out the Kuala Selangor Nature Park, a mangrove swamp along the west coast that supports 130 bird species and some seasonal migrants including the rare Spoonbilled Sandpiper.

In addition, those with more time may also want to travel further inland into Malaysia's premier national park, Taman Negara where dense lowland forests are home to over 200 bird species.

::SEASON::
The tropical climate of Malaysia allows bird watching to be a year-round activity. Of course, visitors will have to keep the rainy season in mind when planning excursions and take along rain gear or a poncho. Rain usually falls heaviest from September to December in the west coast and from October to February in the east coast and in Sabah and Sarawak. Migratory birds use Malaysia's west coast flyway to travel to Sumatra and beyond with peak movements in April and October.

As with all wildlife, all possible care and respect is to be given to the birds and their habitats. It is illegal to harass, disturb, shoot or capture any bird in a gazetted bird sanctuary and trafficking in protected species is prohibited under the Protection of Wild Life Act 1972 in Peninsular Malaysia, with separate acts enforced in Sabah and Sarawak.

Permits from the Forestry Department of the various states may be needed at some bird sanctuaries. Bird watchers are advised to check with their guides or tour agent.

PRACTICAL BIRD WATCHING TIPS A pair of binoculars helps to locate and identify distant and high flying birds. Field guidebooks are useful references to identify different species by their plummage, colour and habit preferences. Bring a notebook to jot down your findings and observations. Wear drab coloured clothing to blend in with the surroundings. Long sleeved cotton shirts, long pants and leech socks help protect you from insects and leeches. Field boots will keep feet dry and provide traction on slippery terrain. Most birds are active in the morning and late afternoon when the temperature is cooler. Consult your guide book as to when are the best times to spot a particular species. Many birds have regular feeding habits and patterns. A good place to watch for shorebirds is at mudflats during low tide. Some parks have covered hides, both elevated or at ground level. These assist bird watchers and photographers alike. When photographing birds, use long-range lenses and flash equipment as there may not be sufficient natural light. Pictures and Information courtesy of Tourism Malaysia. All information contained herein is correct at time of production. Tourism Malaysia and malaysiahotels.com.my cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracy, ommission or alteration that may occur.