A pair of binoculars and a notebook are basic essentials. Choose binoculars with a good field of view. A magnification of seven to ten times is the optimum for bird-watching, with a 30mm or 40mm object lens. More powerful binoculars are heavy and difficult to hold steady. Have a protective cover for your notebook and use a waterproof pen or pencil. A satchel is useful to carry your field guide. Except on the coast, a telescope is rarely used, but with a tripod, is an essential for watching shorebirds. A 25 times magnification is recommended. A compass is essential to find direction in forest or mangroves, especially if the sun is obscured. When surveying birds in hills and mountains an altimeter should be carried to determine the altitude at which they occur. Click here for more

When trying to observe birds in forest there are at least three methods of approach. One can walk along slowly and quietly, hoping to come across birds before they sense your presence. Alternatively, one can rush through a section of forest, with consequent noise, with the object of spotting birds before they have flown off. The other method is to wait patiently in a concealed position for birds to appear. Each method has its merits, and a lot will depend on the habitat and species and numbers of birds in the area. Having located a bird, always keep your eyes on it while bringing your binoculars into play. Click here for more

It is important that observations of birds are complete and accurate, to identify the bird, and to substantiate the discovery of a rare or unusual species. Click here for more

"The birds of Borneo", by B.E.Smythies was published in 1960, and has been updated in two subsequent editions. Besides being a useful guide to the birds of the area, the first edition contained a lot of interesting information on the interaction of ethnic peoples with birds, and many good photographs. The latest revised edition published by the Malaysian Nature Society and Sabah Society in 1981 has been slimmed down to species only. The Sabah Society and WWF (Malaysia) published a pocket edition in 1984 of the plates by Commander Hughes from Smythies. Until 1993, these, together with "Birds of south-east Asia" by King et al, which does not cover all the birds in Borneo, were the only guides currently available here. Click here for more