The Birdwatching Experience

The Experience

Set against the stunning backdrop of the Penang Hill rainforest, The Birdwatching Experience is now officially launched as a new monthly programme at The Habitat Penang Hill. This guided morning walk invites nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and casual birders to explore the rich biodiversity of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Participants will journey along the peaceful Penang Hill Upper Tunnel Road and through The Habitat’s award-winning nature trail, led by expert naturalist guides who help identify birds by their calls and plumage. Whether you are hoping to catch a sunbird mid-flight or hear the distinct call of the Greater Racket-Tailed Drongo echo through the forest, this experience offers an unforgettable introduction to the avian wonders of Penang Hill. 

BOOK YOUR SPOT NOW

Itinerary

Meeting Point: The Habitat Entrance 

6:45 AM – Gather at the base station (Please purchase your Penang Hill Funicular Train Ticket beforehand) 

7:00 AM – Board the train and enjoy sunrise views 

7:30 AM – Meet at The Habitat’s main entrance for an introduction to birding on Penang Hill 

7:45 AM – Birdwatching along Penang Hill Upper Tunnel Road  

9:15 AM – Breakfast at The Habitat Café by Kommune 

9:45 AM – Continue birdwatching inside The Habitat Penang Hill (Including Langur Way Canopy Bridge & Curtis Crest Tree Top Walk) 

11:30 AM – End of programme, exit via The Habitat’s main entrance 

Meet Your Guide

Meet Lau Chai Thiam, an experienced naturalist, avid birder, and wildlife photographer with a deep passion for Penang Hill’s rich biodiversity. With over five years of guiding experience, Lau has honed his skills in interpreting the natural world, offering engaging and insightful perspectives on the region’s diverse avian and insect life. 

Since 2020, he has been dedicated to birdwatching and wildlife photography, capturing the beauty of nature through his lens and documenting bird species across Penang. His expertise and commitment have earned him a place among the top ten eBirders on Penang Island, a testament to his keen observational skills and extensive knowledge of bird species in the area. 

Beyond his expertise, Lau invites enthusiasm for the outdoors, making every birdwatching experience an exciting and educational journey. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or a beginner eager to learn, his sharp eye for spotting elusive species and his passion for conservation will ensure you walk away with a deeper appreciation for the avifauna of Penang Hill. 

Meet the Stars of Penang Hill 

Birdwatching on Penang Hill often rewards participants with sightings of these feathered residents:

Asian Fairy-Bluebird       Irena puella    A striking, iridescent bird often seen flitting among fruiting trees. Males are deep blue and black, while females are a more vibrant turquoise.	Oriental Magpie-Robin  Copsychus saularis    Commonly found in gardens and forests, this cheerful songbird is known for its melodious whistle and bold tail-flicking behavior.	Greater Racket-Tailed Drongo   Dicrurus paradiseus    Easily identified by its long tail streamers and mimicry skills—it can imitate calls of other bird species to perfection.
Ornate Sunbird  Cinnyris ornatus    A colourful nectar-feeding bird with vibrant plumage, often spotted feeding from flowers at canopy level.	Little Spiderhunter   Arachnothera longirostra  A long-billed nectar specialist with a buzzy call, frequently seen hovering at tubular flowers in lowland rainforest areas.

What to bring 
• Binoculars (Participants are encouraged to bring their own. Rental units are limited and available upon request).  
• Camera (optional)   
• Natural-coloured attire – long sleeves and trousers are recommended. 
• Comfortable shoes suitable for trekking and stairs 
• Hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and poncho or light rain jacket 
• Sufficient drinking water to stay hydrated for at least 2 hours 
• Personal medication 

Things to Note     
• This experience is best suited for individuals with basic birdwatching knowledge.  
• Participants are required to gather at The Habitat’s main entrance, by 7:30 AM.    
• Please be punctual. Do factor in potential congestion at the Penang Hill Lower Station when planning your journey.   
• Dress appropriately for the outdoors, with comfortable clothing and robust footwear.

Event Details & Rates

Upcoming Dates: 
10 May 2025 (Saturday) 
14 June 2025 (Saturday) 
12 July 2025 (Saturday) 

Time: 7:30 AM – 11:30 AM 
Venue: Penang Hill Upper Tunnel Road & The Habitat Penang Hill 
Price: RM150 per pax 

** Rate quoted is inclusive of The Habitat’s Standard Entrance Pass  
** Rate quoted is not inclusive of Penang Hill Funicular Train Ticket

DON’T MISS OUT! LIMITED SLOTS AVAILABLE. SECURE YOUR SPOT NOW!

Have a question?
Get in touch with us today for more information!
Email us at inquiry@thehabitat.my
WhatsApp/call us at +60 19-645 7741