To use callers or not to? Hear what birdwatching experts have to say about this and much more in this guide to ethical birding.

Rufous-backed Kingfisher. Photo by Amir Isqandar.

From pristine mountain ranges to muddy mangroves, Malaysia stands as a diverse tropical landscape, a haven for bird enthusiasts. A total of 822 species have been recorded here including resident bird species, vagrants, and 250 or so species that pass through here along their annual Australasian migration.

Interest in bird watching and bird photography is growing all the time and popular locations for avid bird watchers include Kuala Selangor, Fraser’s Hill, the National Park, Kinabalu Park, Danum Valley, and Bako National Park. Responsible birdwatching necessitates the utmost care and respect for these avian inhabitants and their natural habitats.

A favourable destination for all avid birdwatchers, Fraser’s Hill. Photo by Cassie Leong, The Habitat Foundation.

Birding, the art of observing and identifying birds in their native environments, is an inherently sustainable pursuit when conducted conscientiously. However, certain actions can render birding unsustainable and unethical.

To delve deeper into the ethical aspects of birding and its sustainability, we spoke to seasoned bird experts with over decades of experience to better understand the principles that underpin ethical birding and how to foster sustainability in this realm. They also voiced their concerns regarding the current state of birdwatching in Malaysia, and their hope for more responsible and respectful practices to become the norm.

Meet the Knowledgeable Guides

I met K.S. Durai, known as the Birdman of Fraser’s Hill, during a work trip with The Habitat Foundation. With a warm smile and a firm handshake, the 65-year-old generously shared his extensive experience in birding with us.

K.S Durai. Photo by Persatuan Alam & Warisan Bukit Fraser.

One of the country’s top birding guides, Durai has been a serious birder for more than 35 years and has in-depth knowledge of the avifauna of Fraser’s Hill. He is well known among the local and international bird-watching community.

Another familiar name within the community is lawyer turned conservationist, Andrew Sebastian. A licensed nature guide and ecotourism expert, he too strongly advocates for responsible birdwatching here in Malaysia.

Andrew Sebastian, President, Founder, and CEO of EcoMY. Photo by EcoMY.

Here are important guidelines for conduct from both experts that will limit your impact and help enhance your birding experience:

1.Observe at a distance

Entering the habitat of birds demands respect. Always maintain a respectful distance from the birds to avoid unnecessary stress or disturbance.

Stay alert for any changes in bird behaviour. If birds shift their vocalisation, behaviour or take flight upon your presence, you are most likely encroaching on their territory and it should be a sign for you to take a step back.

Birdwatching from a safe distance up at Fraser’s Hill. Photo by The Habitat Foundation.

2.Listen quietly and wait patiently

Did you know that birds have superior hearing compared to humans? Be sure to minimise unwanted sounds that could startle them.

Walk softly and use subtle gestures or soft voices to communicate with fellow birdwatchers, ensuring minimal disruption.

3.Choose appropriate gear

Opt for dark, muted attire that blends seamlessly with the surroundings. Vibrant colours draw attention and may scare away birds.

Additionally, binoculars and a camera with a suitable lens are crucial tools, even for beginners. Durai’s own journey into birding was aided by a pair of binoculars gifted by a German lady who had asked him to guide her around Fraser’s Hill several years back. “It was the start of my birding career. The moment she gave me the pair of binoculars, I only wanted to know more about the birds here,” Durai expresses.

4.Be mindful about tagging locations online

While capturing and posting photos of rare birds on social media may be exciting, think twice before revealing their locations. Sharing online can lead to an influx of visitors, potentially disrupting the ecosystem and causing stress to birds during vital periods like breeding or migration.

5.Use technology responsibly

Although the use of bird callers remains a subject of debate, our experts firmly advise against them. These devices mimic bird sounds to attract them. However, their excessive use can impact bird behaviour and induce stress.

“The use of these callers impact their (birds) behaviour slowly. It stresses them out and it is our role to educate birdwatchers on the responsible use of callers,” Durai mentions.

A study by Watson et al., 2018 reveals that birds responding to long exposures of call playbacks were more agitated and rarely stayed in view as compared to those species of birds who were not exposed to call playbacks.

Birdwatchers are naturally drawn to the activity out of their love for wildlife. Guides like Durai and Andrew do important work in reminding the community to extend that care to all actions taken while on walks and tours, making birdwatching a sustainable activity that is enjoyable for humans and low-impact towards our feathered friends.

Book a birding tour with Durai or Andrew

Check out bird-related projects at EcoMY

Writer: Rebecca Anne Chin (The Habitat Foundation) 

Contributors: K.S. Durai (Ornithological Tours), Andrew Sebastian (Founder, President of EcoMy)