Appreciating Malaysian nature, spotting the amazing hornbills in the rainforest of the Kinabatangan River in Sabah.

I heard noisy calls which I assumed to be by a hornbill in the tree ahead, though I was not sure which species of hornbill.

But a pleasant surprise awaited me, this was the first time I spotted a Bushy-Crested Hornbill, my day turned from great to brilliant.

The Bushy-Crested Hornbill is a medium-sized hornbill with glossy black with a bicolored tail and pale patches of bare facial skin.

The male has an all-dark ebony bill, while female’s bill has a pale brown tip.

They are quite social and forage in small groups. When I was observing this particular specimen on the branch, very soon at least 5 others landed in the tree nearby, and they all went off together.

It is usually spotted in breaks in the foliage, clearings and riversides.

Malaysian nature is richly diverse in its biodiversity, some are unique.

We need to work together to create awareness and support efforts to ensure the sustainability of the nation’s flora and fauna.