Penang is an island in Malaysia, known for its lush natural landscape and rich diversity of flora and fauna. Among the many species of wildlife found in Penang, one of the most impressive is its birdlife.
With over 250 species documented, Penang is one of the best birding hotspots in Malaysia.
Visitors to this tropical paradise can spot common garden birds such as the Oriental Magpie-Robin and the White-breasted Waterhen, as well as a variety of migratory birds, such as the Black-capped Kingfisher and the Grey-headed Fish Eagle.
Birdwatchers can also enjoy the sights and sounds of the endemic and endangered White-bellied Sea Eagle.
Whether you’re looking to catch a glimpse of an elusive species or simply want to admire the beauty of the local birds, Penang has something for everyone.
1. Crested Myna
The crested myna is a species of starling that is native to southeastern China and Indochina. Its scientific name is Acridotheres and it is easily identifiable due to the tuft of feathers on its forehead that resembles a crest.
This distinguishing feature gives the crested myna its alternate name of Chinese starling. The crested myna thrives in open spaces near both urban and agricultural areas. This is due to the abundance of food sources available to the birds in these types of areas.
Additionally, the crested myna is known to be quite sociable, and the presence of other birds helps it feel comfortable in these areas. In the wild, the crested myna feeds mainly on insects and small invertebrates.
However, it is also known to eat a variety of fruits and berries, as well as some plants and grains. This wide diet helps the crested myna thrive in a variety of habitats, even though it primarily prefers the open spaces found near urban and agricultural areas.
The crested myna is an important species in its native regions. It plays a vital role in maintaining a healthy ecosystem by controlling the population of certain insects.
Additionally, its presence provides a unique aesthetic to the environment, as its distinctive crest and beautiful feathers are a sight to behold.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Sturnidae |
| Genus | Acridotheres |
| Species | A. cristatellus |
2. Brown Boobook
The Brown Boobook, also known as the Brown hawk owl, is a species of owl that is native to South Asia. It is found in India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal, western Indonesia, and southern China.
It is a member of the Strigidae family, which is the largest family of owls, containing the majority of species of owls. The Brown Boobook is a nocturnal bird and is typically found in open areas such as farmland, grasslands, and woodlands.
It feeds mainly on small mammals, insects, and reptiles, and prefers to hunt at night. It has a distinctive call, which is a series of descending notes that can be heard from up to a kilometer away.
Its plumage is a mottled brown, and it has a white facial disc with a black border around the eyes. It also has a yellow beak and yellow eyes. The Brown Boobook is a solitary bird and is usually seen alone, though it may form small groups during the breeding season.
It is an important bird species in its native range and is an indicator species for the health of the local ecosystem.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Strigiformes |
| Family | Strigidae |
| Genus | Ninox |
| Species | N. scutulata |
3. White-bellied Sea Eagle
The white-bellied sea eagle is a large bird of prey that belongs to the Accipitridae family. It is also known as the white-breasted sea eagle and was first described by Johann Friedrich Gmelin in 1788.
This bird is closely related to Sanford’s sea eagle, which is found in the Solomon Islands. Because of their shared characteristics, the two species are considered superspecies, meaning they are considered to be closely related.
The white-bellied sea eagle is a diurnal bird, meaning it is active during the day. It has a white chest, belly, and head, with a blackish-brown back. The wings are long and pointed, and the tail is short and rounded.
This bird of prey is known for its strong, powerful legs and its powerful hooked beak which it uses to hunt and feed. The white-bellied sea eagle is a solitary species, which is usually seen flying alone.
It feeds mainly on fish, but it will also take other animals such as waterbirds, reptiles, and small mammals. It builds its nest in large trees, usually close to the coast or near a large body of water.
The white-bellied sea eagle is a magnificent bird of prey that is found in many parts of the world. It is a beautiful bird that is an important part of the environment.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Icthyophaga |
| Species | I. leucogaster |
4. Brahminy Kite
The Brahminy Kite is a species of bird of prey that is part of the Accipitridae family, which also includes other diurnal raptors like eagles, buzzards, and harriers. It is a medium-sized bird, with a reddish-brown back.
They are mainly found in the Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia, and Australia, where it is known as the Red-backed sea eagle. Brahminy Kites typically inhabit coastal regions, as well as riverbanks, lakes, wetlands, and mangroves.
They are opportunistic feeders, and feed mainly on fish, but will also take other small animals, as well as carrion. They are often seen hovering above the water’s surface, in search of food. These birds are monogamous, and pairs form during the breeding season.
The nest is often built in a tree or on the edge of a cliff. The female lays 2-3 eggs, and both parents help to incubate and care for the young. Brahminy Kites are of conservation concern due to habitat loss, illegal hunting, and egg collecting.
They are currently listed as ‘Near Threatened’ by the IUCN, and their population in the wild is declining.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Haliastur |
| Species | H. indus |
5. Crimson Sunbird
The crimson sunbird is a species of bird belonging to the sunbird family. These birds primarily subsist on nectar, but they may also feed on insects, especially when they are feeding their young. Flight is swift and direct due to their short wings.
Most species of crimson sunbirds can collect nectar from flowers by hovering in the air, similar to the flight of a hummingbird, although they usually prefer to perch while feeding.
This species of bird is popularly found in gardens, parks, and other areas with lots of flowers and trees. They often feed in small flocks, which is one of the easiest ways to spot them.
Crimson sunbirds also have vibrant, colorful plumage, with yellow and red feathers, which makes them even more easily recognizable.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Nectariniidae |
| Genus | Aethopyga |
| Species | A. siparaja |
Conclusion
Penang is a great destination for bird watching. It has a wide variety of species and habitats that attract birders from around the world. Birders can visit wetlands, parks, forests, and even urban areas to observe birds.
Penang is a great place to observe the beauty of nature and the diversity of birds. With its rich biodiversity, Penang is a paradise for bird lovers.