Updates from the Field No. 6 December 2013–June 2014

Malaysian Nature Society, JKR 641 Jalan , Bukit Persekutuan, 50480 From the Editor’s Desk

December is always a time of rains in Belum-Temengor which makes fieldwork rather unpredictable (and very . short mostly) but it also provides the MNS team with a brief respite before we enter an important period in a ’s life come January – their breeding season. Despite generally being a wet month, some have already started to scout around for new nest holes or revisit previous ones. An early hornbill gets the hole perhaps? The success of 2013 breeding season provided us with much encouragement and hope but results in the first three months of 2014 proved slow. Thankfully, from April onwards, the situation improved and we successfully located more in Royal Belum and Temengor. The 2014 breeding season was also exciting as we field tested the HD improvised recording device – now named HB-IRD – which gave us some amazing insights into the secretive world of the nesting Bushy-crested and Black Hornbills.

There was another reason to rejoice in January. While surveying hornbills in Temengor, we encounter a little known and rarely seen social behaviour of the Helmeted Hornbills – casque-butting – on two occasions. True to its description by other witnesses in and/or , the collision between the casques (or helmets if you like) of two individuals resulted in a very loud and memorable “CLACK” – the sound of the impact has been described “like billiard balls knocking into each other”. Fortunately, we managed to photograph the behaviour as it happened but just barely; as light was fading in the evening.

From this issue onwards, we made some further changes to the contents of this Update. Although it serves to provide readers about the progress of MNS hornbill work in Belum-Temengor, we also now welcome short articles about your hornbill encounters in other parts of . Anuar McAfee shares with us his Oriental Pied Hornbill story from Kenyir. So, readers, do contact me if you have interesting write ups. The second new addition is a column to ‘capture’ hornbill sightings in the country. For the latter, most information are gleaned from the MNS I-Witness database but we also welcome from other sources e.g. Facebook postings, direct submissions (to the Editors) etc including accompanying low resolution photo(s) (if any). Naturally, proper credit(s) will be accorded. We hope that over time we would have a reasonable database on hornbills which could help us understand their statuses in our country.

Lastly, I would like to welcome and thank Ms Nina Cheung for coming onboard to assist the team in producing the Updates for 2014. She was previously the Editor for Suara Enggang (MNS-Bird Conservation Council’s bird bulletin) for many years. Her editorial experience will definitely help improve the Updates.

How time flies! Instead of quarterly Updates in 2014, we have decided to produce two bumper Updates (January-June/July-December) to catch up. We hope you enjoy reading them.

Yeap Chin Aik

Cover Photo: A Male Wrinkled Hornbill. Yeap Chin Aik/MNS HCP Update No. 6 December 2013 - June 2014 2 Field Updates

INTRODUCING THE HB-IRD Capturing the unseen

Locating a hornbill nest in a landscape such as Belum-Temengor is an amazing challenge. Once located, monitoring them to gain insights into their breeding behaviour is another. Little is known about the breeding behaviour and cycles of all our 10 hornbill (Wells 1999). Hence it is important to monitor the located hornbill nest(s) as frequent as possible to address the knowledge gaps. As daily or frequent monitoring is resource intensive i.e. manpower, Malaysian Nature Society (MNS) has been experimenting with technology as a possible way to monitor nest(s).

Working with Mr. Herman Visser from Specialised Projects Malaysia Sdn. Bhd., we developed a prototype in 2013 by combining the current CCTV technology with conventional video recording equipment powered by motorcycle batteries. The prototype casing alone was heavy and weighed at least 8.5kg! It took at least four persons to carry the entire prototype to the target nest. We field tested the prototype on an active Wreathed Hornbill nest in mid-2013. Then we waited to see the results. It was a huge relief to finally see that the prototype was successful in capturing interesting breeding behaviour of this hornbill. The icing on the cake was that it also managed to capture the emergence of the female and chick as well just before the batteries went flat!

With the successful trial of the prototype, MNS and Specialised Projects began working on the second version taking into account some of the shortcomings. By late May 2014, we were ready for another round of field tests. We named the version 2.0 as the HORNBILL BREEDING-IMPROVISED RECORDING DEVICE or the HB-IRD. This unit is smaller, uses less number of batteries but is now in high definition.

We returned to the same nest and discovered that a family of Bushy-crested Hornbills have taken over as the new tenants. Nevertheless, we proceeded as planned. How did the field tests go? We’ll find out in the next Update.

Deployment of the CCTV HD video recording unit in the field. It was trialed on two species (Black and Bushy- crested Hornbills) for several days respectively. TheCHICK field trials were2 successful whereby amazing feeding footages were captured, giving us more insights into their behaviour and nesting needs in this landscape.

HCP Update No. 6 December 2013 - June 2014 3 Field Updates

Photo: HB-IRD/MNS

Bushy-crested Hornbill feeding his imprisoned female and/or chick.

Photo: HB-IRD/MNS

CHICK 2

Male Black Hornbill brought back a scorpion to the nest. HCP Update No. 6 December 2013 - June 2014 4 Field Updates SEARCH CONTINUES FOR NESTS

Spurred and encouraged by the 2013 season’s success, the MNS team continued to tap on our Orang Asli network and invest in our own nest search efforts. The first three months (January-March) proved challenging with only three new nests. However, the situation seemed to turn for the better as April rolled in. By the end of June, a total of 15 new nests of six species have been found as follows: Bushy-crested Hornbill (8) Rhinoceros Hornbill (4) Oriental Pied Hornbill (3) Black Hornbill (2) Great Hornbill (1) Wreathed Hornbill (1)

While searching for new nests, we also continued to monitor some existing nests (discovered previous seasons) belonging to the: Oriental Pied Hornbill (4) Black Hornbill (1) Bushy-crested Hornbill (3) Rhinoceros Hornbill (2) Some of these hornbills completed their breeding process i.e. seal broken or chick(s) fledged in May or June.

The male Oriental Pied Hornbill at its sealed nest hole in a merbau tree (Intsia palembanica). It is likely to be the same pair that used this tree hole to nest last year. (Tee Lian Huat / MNS)

One of the males in the Bushy-crested Hornbill CHICKgroup The 2chick of the nesting Wreathed Hornbill returning to feed buah bayas to the female inside. In getting restless inside the cavity. The the 2012 breeding season, this nest was occupied by female can be seen behind the chick with its Wreathed Hornbills. It has since been taken over by blue facial skin. this group from 2013 till this year. HCP Update No. 6 December 2013 - June 2014 5 Field Updates

HEAD BANGERS Casque-butting between Helmeted Hornbills captured on camera

The Helmeted Hornbill is one of the largest Asian hornbills around with an average weigh of about 2-3 kilogram. It is found in Sundaic tropical rainforests of southern Myanmar and Thailand, , Borneo and Sumatra (Indonesia). Social behaviour of hornbills are often difficult to observe in the wild hence not much is known.

In early January 2014, a little-known and rarely seen social behaviour of Helmeted Hornbills was observed engaged in casque-butting in late evening at Temengor Forest Reserve. Two pairs of Helmeted Hornbills (Pairs A and B) were perched on exposed branches of a tree (Figure 1) located on a slope opposite each other.

One male (Pair A) then took off from the perch and flew towards the other perched male (Pair B) and attempted to knock its casque with it (Figure 2,3 & 4) . However, the attempt was not successful. The female from Pair A followed soon after and attempted to casque butt with Pair B female (Figure 5-9). This attempt was successful and a loud ‘CLACK’ was heard. After these two attempts of casque-butting, the Helmeted Hornbill pairs remained in the area but no further attempts were made and light was fading.

Pair A

Pair B

Figure 1

HCP Update No. 6 December 2013 - June 2014 6 Field Updates

CHICK 1

Figure 2: Male of Pair A flew down to casque-butt with the male of Pair B

MOM

CHICK 2

Figure 3 HCP Update No. 6 December 2013 - June 2014 7 Field Updates

CHICK 1

Figure 4

MOM

CHICK 2

Figure 5: Female of Pair A followed to casque butt with Pair B female.

HCP Update No. 6 December 2013 - June 2014 8 Field Updates

CHICK 1

Figure 6

MOM

CHICK 2

Figure 7 HCP Update No. 6 December 2013 - June 2014 9 Field Updates

CHICK 1

Figure 8

MOM

CHICK 2

Figure 9

HCP Update No. 6 December 2013 - June 2014 10 Field Updates

According to Kinnaird et al. (2003), the casque-butting could be a form of agonistic behaviour of Helmeted Hornbills competing for similar, limited resources.

Observations in Thailand and Indonesia seem to support this idea as they occurred near fruiting fig trees. However, much is still unclear about the true function of this behaviour due as there are only a handful of these reports from the field to date.

Reference Kinnaird, M.F., Hadiprakarsa, Y.Y. and Thiensongrusamee, P. 2003. Aerial jousting by Helmeted Hornbills: observations from Thailand and Indonesia. Ibis 145: 506-508.

Announcing the Pakke Paga Festival - celebrating the HORNBILLS and Pakke's other wildlife with the Nyishi people.

The poster shows some of Pakke's other big stars - the Ibisbill, Tiger, Asian Elephant, King Cobra and White-winged Wood duck.

'Paga' means hornbill in the Nyishi language.

For more information contact: Help Tourism [email protected] http://www.helptourism.com/festival-tours- in-india/pakke-paga-festival-arunachal.html

CHICK 2

HCP Update No. 6 December 2013 - June 2014 11 Field Updates

THE RAINFOREST SUPERMARKET A fruiting fig in full glory

The fruiting fig tree in a tropical rainforest is akin a busy kopitiam.

Six feeding sites (all fig trees) were located and observed at various intensities. Four in Temengor (Sungai Halong, Pulau Tujuh, Sungai Enam, Chuweh/Dok) and three in Royal Belum (Sungai Ruok). Most of these attracted large number of hornbills and other mainly green-pigeons, fairy- bluebirds, leaf-monkeys and macaques.

Black and Bushy-crested Hornbills on fruiting fig tree.

Pig-tailed Macaques and Dusky Leaf Monkeys also fed on figs at near Pulau Tujuh.

HCP Update No. 6 December 2013 - June 2014 12 Field Updates

Oriental Pied Hornbill

• Sungai Halong - 3 species (Black, Oriental Pied and Rhinoceros Hornbills) • Pulau Tujuh - 4 species (Black, Bushy-crested, Oriental Pied, Rhinoceros Hornbills). Helmeted and Great Hornbills were observed near the tree but did not land during our watch. • Chuweh/Dok area - at least 1 species (Oriental Pied Hornbill) • Sungai Ruok - Flocks of Great (16 individuals) and Helmeted Hornbills (7 individuals) at a fruiting fig tree • Sungai Ruok 1 - 3 species (Great, Rhinoceros and Helmeted Hornbills) • Sungai Ruok 2 - 1 species (Oriental Pied Hornbill) • Sungai Ruok 3 - 1 species (Rhinoceros Hornbill) • Pulau Tali Kail - Rhinoceros Hornbill (1 individual) • Sungai Halong - Rhinoceros Hornbill (4 individuals) • Sungai Semelor - Black Hornbill (1 individual)

The team also observed for the first time and confirmed that hornbills, in this case the Bushy- crested, consume a palm fruit called buah bayas (Family Arecaceae / Oncosperma horridum) during breeding. Several individuals were perched on the fruit bunches of this palm and plucking ripe fruits in Temengor Forest Reserve. This observation was captured on camera. This family of Bushies was also nesting nearby.

HCP Update No. 6 December 2013 - June 2014 13 Field Updates

The ripened buah bayas on the right – dark, purplish fruit about 10 sen coin in size. The scientific name is Oncosperma horridum which belongs to the palm family Arecaceae.

First photographic evidence of hornbills, in this case Bushy-crested, consuming palm fruit of Oncosperma horridum (or bayas locally). This group of four (on the palm bunch) were ‘harvesting’ ripe fruits for the alpha female sealed in a nest tree not too far away.

HCP Update No. 6 December 2013 - June 2014 14 Field Updates

ENCOUNTERS WITH THE ‘W’s

During the search for hornbill nests in Belum-Temengor, we encountered the two ‘W’s. Positive sightings of rare hornbill species specifically the Wrinkled and White-crowned Hornbills in Royal Belum (Sg Ruok area) and Temengor (Pulau Besar East/Semelor area) respectively between January and March. To give an idea of its rarity, the Wrinkled Hornbill (Figure 1) has only been positively recorded (i.e. observed) once (in Sg Gadong) in 2013. White-crowned Hornbills (Figure 2) are usually heard more than seen, as they prefer the middle storey of the forests which makes them hard to detect. This species was recorded nesting in 2013, the first record for Belum-Temengor. The presence of these species in these areas provides certain possibility that they might also nest in 2014.

Figure 1

Figure 2 HCP Update No. 6 December 2013 - June 2014 15 Communications, Education, Participation & Awareness (CEPA)

CONNECTING WITH OUR ASEAN NEIGHBOURS 34th Wildlife Seminar, Bangkok

Malaysian Nature Society (MNS) was invited by Dr. Vijak Chimchome (Kasetsart University/Thailand Hornbill Project) to share our work and findings on the Plain-pouched Hornbills in Belum-Temengor Forest Complex in the 34th Wildlife Seminar with the theme of “Wildlife Conservation with ASEAN Conservation Community (ACC)” from 19-20 December 2013 in Kasetsart University, Bangkok. The wildlife seminar has been (and continues to be) a long tradition of the university and held annually. The theme for 2013 focused on ‘shared species’ between Thailand and her immediate neighbour countries i.e. (Peninsular) Malaysia, Myanmar, Cambodia and (south) China. Presentations were categorised into seven plenary sessions. Dr. Chimchome and MNS presented in a plenary entitled “Conservation of Hornbills along Thai-Myanmar-Malaysian borders”. The seminar was well attended by Thai university students, academicians and government agencies responsible for natural resource management (e.g. wildlife, forest).

After the event, Dr. Pilai Poonswad organised small meeting among the Plain-pouched Hornbill range countries (Figure 1) to discuss possible further collaboration and information exchange. We concluded by agreeing to: (1) continue to maintain communications, (2) survey of breeding Plain-pouched Hornbills in southern Myanmar, (3) continue to monitor Plain-pouched Hornbills in Belum-Temengor Forest Complex and (4) possibility of producing joint technical paper on the status of the hornbill. The future survival of these globally threatened hornbills, estimated to be only 7,000 mature individuals remaining, will depend on how close the three range countries work together.

Figure 1: Plain-pouched Hornbill distribution range (Source: Birdlife International www.birdlife.org) Photo: Yeap Chin Aik/MNS HCP Update No. 6 December 2013 - June 2014 16 Communications, Education, Participation & Awareness (CEPA)

MNS HORNBILL VOLUNTEER PROGRAMME

Article and Photos by Jessie Kan Pei Shi

During my internship with the Malaysian Nature Society (MNS), I joined the MNS Hornbill Volunteer Programme in the Belum–Temengor Forest Complex, . I joined this programme as a helper on the first week for 7 days and as a volunteer in the second week for 5 days and 4 nights. We were there to assist MNS to monitor the Plain-pouched Hornbill as part of its conservation effort to conduct daily flight census. This count was conducted twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. This information offers valuable information on the estimated population number which will be used to advocate for the conservation of Belum-Temengor.

We settled down in the bamboo hut built by Orang Asli at Kampong Tebang, just beside the Temengor lake. Every morning and evening, we counted Plain-pouched Hornbill. The Plain-pouched Hornbill flew in a large flock either in a V- or U-shape formation. I was exposed to the proper way in using and cleaning the binoculars and the counting methods.

Due to the lack of piping system, we used lake water for toiletry and washing purposes while water from the nearby stream was used for drinking and cooking.

The Tebang villagers visited us and had tea together in our house, while sharing their experiences and culture with us. It was an eye-opening opportunity to get to know more about the mystery

The bamboo hut for volunteers in Kampung Tebang (above), the volunteer herself fetching water from the lake (right).

HCP Update No. 6 December 2013 - June 2014 17 Communications, Education, Participation & Awareness (CEPA)

Clockwise: Orang Asli children playing near the volunteers’ hut. Cooking demonstration. Blowpipe demonstration.

behind the life of Orang Asli during the visit of Kampung Tebang’s Tok Batin. The women and children also visited us and brought us some fruits and fishes. I had a great time chatting with them. The women also taught me how to fish with a traditional fishing rod made from palm tree. They used a small fishing net to trap little shrimp as bait, and fished with the long and slim rod. I failed to catch any but a kind lady gave us some fishes for dinner. During the evening counts, kids in the village came and played near us. They started to be friends with us despite being very shy to outsiders.

Beside the bird count, we had other activities during the free time. Orang Asli showed us their cooking method and demonstrated the use of blowpipe. We also took a short hike to the village trail to search for . We saw many species of birds such as Green-billed Malkoha, Black- thighed Falconet, White-bellied Sea- Eagle, Long-tailed Broadbill and many more.

HCP Update No. 6 December 2013 –June 2014 18 Communications, Education, Participation & Awareness (CEPA)

In addition, we also had a picnic at the Kiroi Waterfall. We hiked up the waterfall to search for Rafflesia, but the Rafflesia was still in bud form and had not bloom yet. I also learnt to cook Indian cuisine from the camp coordinator Madam Pasu. We were encouraged to cook lunch and dinner ourselves. We had lots of fun cooking and doing chores together.

At night, we do not have activities as it was too dark outside but we managed to see lots of fireflies flying around the hut. The scene was so breathtaking.

Lastly, I enjoyed the MNS Hornbill Volunteer Program, which also aid in the conservation of the Belum- Temengor Forest Complex. I realized that the research and monitoring activities are crucial in helping to conserve a site(s), the count can be used to advocate for protection with the authorities. By involving the public as volunteers and “citizen scientist”, they are able to assist MNS in its monitoring activities, but also help to increase the awareness on the importance of forests to wildlife and the Orang Asli. I really had a eye-opening experience. My time in Belum-Temengor will be a great and usefull experience for me to proceed in the road of conservation.

Top to bottom: Rafflesia bud. Volunteers counting hornbills. A flock of Plain-pouched Hornbill in V- shaped formation.

HCP Update No. 6 December 2013 - June 2014 19 Communications, Education, Participation & Awareness (CEPA)

EDUCATING OUR NEXT GENERATION

Education/awareness activities for schools took a breather for two months (January-February) as the new school session kicked in and they were busy with the new enrolments, etc.

A hornbill camp was recently organised from 23-25th March in Pulau Tali Kail, Temengor. A total of 65 students, 8 teachers and 6 student facilitators took part. The participants took part in several activities such as night walks, hornbill talks and spotting, visiting the Orang Asli community of Kumpung Chuweh and many others.

The list of participating schools were: SMJK Chung Hwa Confucian, SMK Jelutong, Penang SMK Permatang Pasir, Penang SMK Seri Balik Pulau, Penang SMK Guar Perahu , Penang SMK Batu Kawan, Penang SMK Batu Maung, Penang SMK Convent Pulau Tikus, Penang SMK Methodist ACS, Melaka SMK Tinggi Melaka SMK Infant Jesus, Melaka SMK Telok Mas, Melaka SMK Gajah Berang, Melaka SMK Bukit Katil, Melaka SMK St. Francis, Melaka SMK Munsyi Abdullah, Melaka SMK Klebang Besar, Melaka SMK St. David, Melaka SMK (P) Methodist, Melaka SMK Tun Tijah, Melaka SMK Lubok China, Melaka SMK Darul Ehsan,

In May, the team was able to reach out to more than 20 schools in two programmes. Venue: SK Seri Ampang Muda (in conjunction with Perkhemahan Pengakap Daerah Baling, Sik) Date: 17th May 2014. Participants: 102 students, 13 teachers (excluding MNS staff educators) SK Kalai SK Sik SK Teloi Tua SK Seri Dusun SK Gulau SMK Gulau SMKA Sik SK Kota Bukit SK Seri Ampang Muda

Photo: Yeap Chin Aik/MNS HCP Update No. 6 December 2013 - June 2014 20 Communications, Education, Participation & Awareness (CEPA)

Venue: SMK KK9 RPS Pos Betau (in conjunction with Kem Pendidikan Biodiversiti Orang Asal) Date: 29-30 May 2014. Participants: 156 students, 20 teachers (excluding MNS staff educators) SMK KK9 Pos Betau, SK (P) Methodist , Pahang SMK Tiang Chandi, Kelantan SK LKTP Mempaga 2, Pahang SMK Jeram, Selangor SM Sains Tengku Abdullah, Pahang SJK(C) EK TE, Melaka SMK Rantau Panjang, Selangor SMK (LKTP) Kg Sertik, Pahang SMK Sungai Kapar Indah, Selangor SISP SMK Seri , Pahang SMK Dewan Beta, Kelantan SMK Tekek, Pahang SMK Klebang Besar, Melaka SMK Seri Bentong, Pahang SK Kuala Jengal, SMK , Pahang SMJK Pei Hwa, SMK (P) Methodist Raub, Pahang SK , Pahang

HCP Update No. 6 December 2013 - June 2014 21 Local News

HOME OF THE HORNBILL - LAKE KENYIR RESORT

Article and Photos by Anuar McAfee

Tasik Kenyir, situated some 60 km inland from Kuala Terengganu is the largest man-made lake in southeast Asia. It is surrounded by healthy forest reserves where 290 species of birds have been recorded. The main entry point to explore Tasik Kenyir is Pengkalan Gawi. It is here that Lake Kenyir Resort, the largest hotel in the area, is located. The resort brands itself as being ‘Home of the Hornbills’. Most of the 9 species of hornbills recorded at Kenyir have been sighted in the resort itself.

In early 2014, Muhammad McAfee, a nature guide at the resort spotted a pair of Oriental Pied Hornbills exploring a natural cavity in a mature tree amongst the hotel chalets. In late February, the female began sealing herself inside the nest. By late March the young chicks could be heard inside the nest when the male approached with food. By May the adult female together with two young chicks had left the nest. Oriental Pied Hornbill nest in the resort area.

The nesting hornbill is evidence that the resort is indeed ‘home of the hornbills’. The resort offers enough security and peace for the birds to breed, allowing guests a chance to see one of the truly remarkable nesting habits of the avian world.

Oriental Pied Hornbills are common at the resort, with groups of up to 30 or more individuals being seen with ease. The Great Hornbill is another species that can be sighted almost daily there. Other hornbill species seen passing through the resort include Black, Helmeted, Bushy Crested, Wrinkled, Wreathed, and Rhinoceros Hornbill.

Just outside the resort entrance a second Oriental Pied Hornbill nest was discovered in April, 2014. The nest cavity is located in a small round opening approximately 4m from the ground in what is thought to be a Petai tree. The tree is located right beside one of the roads leading to Gawi Jetty, Kenyir, at a small junction. The nest cavity faces the road and is exposed to traffic.

When first observed in April, the area was quiet, with little traffic or disturbance. The male hornbill would approach the nest from the thick growth away from the road, and only visit the nest itself when the road was totally free of passing traffic. The male would perch above the nest cavity and pass food down into the nest.

HCP Update No. 6 December 2013 - June 2014 22 Local News

Above: The second Oriental Pied Hornbill nest outside the resort. Left: Nest raided Below: Nest site at junction with 24 hour guard and traffic.

Beginning early May 2014, a month long festival was held at Gawi Jetty, Kenyir. All traffic entering the area was rerouted along the road passing next to the hornbill nest. In addition, a 24 hour security post was set up at the junction just meters from the hornbill nest. Throughout the month long event, heavy traffic and human presence was constant. As a result the hornbill modified its feeding position enabling it to continue to visit the nest on a regular basis. Now with the increased traffic and guards on duty, the male hornbill no longer perched on its previous exposed position above the cavity. Instead, it would land on the side of the tree away from the guard post, and pass food around and into the cavity.

Unfortunately, with all the activity along this once quiet road, the nest was disturbed. Just days before fledging was expected, a makeshift ladder was used to reach the cavity, hack open the nest and remove the young birds inside.

HCP Update No. 6 December 2013 - June 2014 23 Local News

PROTECTING HORNBILLS FROM TOTAL WIPEOUT

HORNBILLS (bucerotidae) have many ornithological admirers – with their long eyelashes (modified feathers), dark eyes and an almost comically large, curved bill.

They range from the size of a pigeon to a large bird with a 1.8m wingspan. You can easily pick out hornbills from other birds by a special body part atop their bill called casque.

Hornbills have long tails, broad wings and white and black, brown, or gray feathers. This contrasts with the brightly coloured necks, faces, bills, and casques in many species. Females and males of ten have different coloured faces and eyes.

I had seen a hornbill – possibly from the Oriental-pied species – flying above Logan Bunut Lake in Lawas while I was making a boat tour around the lake in 2010.

Actually, it’s not uncommon to find hornbills in the forests or see them winging across the land in search of food or back to roost in the hollowed out part of a tree trunk.

There are 10 hornbill species in Malaysia, eight of which are found in , according to Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC). The two species found in the peninsula are Plain-pouch and Great Hornbills while the eight indigenous to Sarawak are Oriental Pied Hornbill ( albirostris), Black Hornbill (anthracoceros malayanus), Bushy-crested Hornbill (anorrhinus galeritus), White- crowned (crested) Hornbill (berenicornis comatus), Rhinoceros Hornbill (buceros rhinoceros), Helmeted Hornbill (Rhinoplax vigil), Wrinkled Hornbill (aceros corrugatus) and wreathed Hornbill (aceros undulatus).

Sarawak is known as the Land of Hornbills because these birds can be found in most parts of the state. The Black Hornbill is the most common while the Rhinoceros Hornbill is the largest of the bucerotidae family in Sarawak. An adult Rhinoceros Hornbill is about the size of a swan – 91-122cm long and weighing two to three kilogrammes. It is found in lowlands and montane, tropical and subtropical regions, and mountain rainforests up to an altitude of 1,400 metres in Borneo, Sumatra, Java, the Malay Peninsula, and southern Thailand. It can live in captivity up to 90 years.

State bird of Sarawak

The Rhinoceros Hornbill is the state bird of Sarawak. For some Dayaks, especially the Ibans, the hornbill represents the chief of worldly birds or the supreme worldly bird, and its statue is used to welcome Sengalang Burong, the god of the augural birds, to the feast and celebration of humankind.

The Rhinoceros Hornbill is noted for the loud ‘whooshing’ sound of its huge wings and the rasping harshness of its haunting call. Today, it still enjoys the exalted status as the Sarawak state emblem. But is Sarawak still truly the Land of Hornbills?

Widespread logging and poaching are allegedly threatening to push some of the popular species to the brink of extinction in the forests of Borneo. Moreover, hornbills are reportedly also hunted for food. The Jakarta Post (November 2012) reported that hornbill body parts had been smuggled out of Kalimantan, Indonesia. As many as 285 bills from enggang gading (Helmeted Hornbill) were confiscated in smuggling attempts foiled by the Natural Resources Conservation Center (BKSDA) of West Kalimantan.

HCP Update No. 6 December 2013 - June 2014 24 Local News

The Rhinoceros hornbill enjoys an exalted status as the Sarawak state emblem. — Photo courtesy of SFC. Describing the seizure as “unusually large,” the Centre said this had, without doubt, resulted in a reduction of the male hornbill population in the area. The casques, bound for China, are processed into objects of art such as sword handles and other items. Middlemen buy them for between 1 million rupiah (US$105) and 3 million rupiah a piece while the price can escalate on the international market, the report said.

On borrowed time

It seems the hornbill is on borrowed time with hunting and habitat loss posing as major threats to a potential wipeout of this particular avian species, not only in Sarawak but also other parts of the world such as Thailand, Indonesia, India, Africa and the Philippines.

The Rhinoceros Hornbill population especially is under a cloud, being a much sought after hunting and poaching target. According to native folklore, this species holds mythical powers. When offered for sacrifice, its yellow-orange beak slightly curved out shape is taken out, and when carved and worn as a necklace, possesses the power to “control other people.” The feathers are used for traditional costumes or some kind of ornaments to be hung on a warrior’s weapon such as spear, blowpipe, wooden shield and machete. Such weapons, it is believed, have magical powers to invoke durability, tenacity and courage during a battle. The traditional costumes and talismans are preserved from generation to generation and used only during the grandest occasions such as marriages and other auspicious festivities.

To conserve the species, the WildLife Protection Ordinance, 1998, has classified the hornbill as totally protected. A totally protected species is defined as one in danger of extinction due to hunting and habitat destruction. Section 29 of the Ordinance metes out the penalty of a maximum RM25,000 fine and two years’ imprisonment for keeping hornbills as pets, killing, hunting, capturing, selling, trading or disturbing them, or possessing any recognisable hornbill parts.

According to SFC, the most recent incident of hornbill-related offence was the well-publicised poaching of the Oriental Pied Hornbill named Faridah in Miri. A 20-year-old man was jailed three months and fined RM20,000 in connection with the case. HCP Update No. 6 December 2013 - June 2014 25 Local News

No specific data

SFC chief executive officer Datu Ali Yusop said in Sarawak, hornbills could be seen in most totally protected areas such as Similajau National Park, Santubong National Park, Tanjung Datu National Park, Gunung Gading National Park. Other areas where they can commonly be spotted include Gunong Mulu National Park, Pulong Tau National Park and Lanjak Entimau Wildlife Sanctuary.

However, Ali, said there is presently no specific data on hornbill population in Sarawak. “We are still in the early stages of a population survey although information on the distribution of the eight species is available and a database is being developed. “Now, we can’t tell you exactly whether the population of any of the species is declining but none of the eight species is extinct and we are earnestly intensifying efforts to ensure their habitats are well protected,” he assured.

Ali said threats to hornbill existence may be due to loss of habitat and deforestation, lack of food source as well as nesting sites. He stressed habitat loss posed a severe threat to hornbills since they only used large tree cavities for nesting – for example the dipterocarpus species, one of the most valuable timber types in Sarawak. “Hornbills are also dependent on the forests for their food source. Most

are dependent on primary forests and only two species – the Black and Oriental Pied Hornbills – can be found in disturbed areas such as at the proposed Piasau Nature Reserve in Miri,” he added.

Ali said there were many ways to save hornbills, adding that with available data, conservation was not only about protecting the species, but also their habitats. However, he pointed out that all these required funds and other resources. He said hornbill habitats must be protected through land gazettement while population survey and monitoring should be conducted from time to time. “Donations to buy artificial nesting boxes are also needed.”

On conservation, Ali said SFC had taken proactive action, including gazettement of Piasau Camp as a Nature reserve-urban park for a population of Oriental Pied Hornbills nesting there; setting up of Fig Garden at Kubah National Park (habitat enhancement) and conducting a population survey.

He disclosed a five-year programme had been drawn up, encompassing studies on hornbills in the totally protected areas of western Sarawak. “We are yet to see the effectiveness of our initiatives as holistic population surveys have not to be conducted. But at least, these steps are useful for hornbill conservation – in particular, the species involved.

“As for Piasau Camp, the public must have heightened awareness of hornbills to portray their love for Nature which, in return, will benefit the long-term survival of the species,” he said. Hornbills are primarily frugivorous, eating a variety of fruits, with figs being predominant in their diet. They also eat a variety of animal prey. – Rintos Mail, [email protected] (Source: http://www.theborneo post.com/2014/04/13/ protecting-hornbills-from-total-wipeout/)

HCP Update No. 6 December 2013 - June 2014 26 Local News

Oriental Pied Hornbill male (holding a cricket) visited a neighbour at Teluk Intan, Perak –Sin Chew Daily 1 Apr 2014

HCP Update No. 6 December 2013 - June 2014 27 Regional News

PHOTO OF HUNTER WITH DEAD HORNBILL SPARKS ONLINE OUTRAGE

A photo of a man holding up a dead hornbill he shot has sparked online outrage about the frequent killings of threatened and endangered birds in the country.

The image, posted on the Wild Bird Club Philippines (WBCP) Facebook page on March 31, shows the hunter holding up the bird by its claws, the rifle that he used to shoot it slung across his body.

According to WBCP president Mike Lu, who shared the photo, it was taken by his friends who "went birdwatching" in Adams, Ilocos Norte and "were thrilled to see a family of Rufous Hornbills.”

The hornbill in the photo was "juvenile (bill is not red yet)," he added in the caption.

As of this posting, the photo has been shared 1,074 times on the social networking site.

This photograph of a hunter holding up a dead rufous hornbill in Ilocos Norte has ruffled the feathers of local conservationists. The hornbill, also known as "kalaw," is endemic to the Philippines and is listed on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List as a "near threatened" species. Wild Bird Club of the Philippines

Photo: Yeap Chin Aik/MNS HCP Update No. 6 December 2013 - June 2014 28 Regional News

The following day, the WBCP said: "Our contact confirmed that the hunter...is the son-in-law of the vice mayor and that his father is a councilor! ... His father is pleading to give his son a second chance."

A separate report from the Philippine Daily Inquirer on April 4 identified the man in the photograph as Mikel Dato, son of town councilor Julian Dato and the son-in-law of Adams vice mayor Wagner Poking. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) sent a team to look into the matter, the report added, though a formal complaint has yet to be filed.

The rufous hornbill is endemic to the Philippines and known locally as "kalaw". The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) lists it as a “near-threatened” species, "as it is suspected to be declining moderately rapidly throughout its range as a result of habitat loss and persecution by hunters and trappers."

In an interview with GMA News Online, Lu said the birdwatchers, including two foreigners, were asked by the DENR to submit an affidavit on the incident, to be used in filing the complaint.

The WBCP met with the Biodiversity Management Bureau (formerly the Protected Areas and Wildlife Bureau) last week to discuss the incident, as well as ways to further the government's information campaign on wildlife matters, Lu added.

In November last year, the daughter of former Ilocos Sur Governor Luis "Chavit" Singson posted pictures of herself and her father with wild ducks they shot, saying in a post that they had gone hunting "somewhere in Ilocos." The Wild Bird Club of the Philippines decried the Singsons' actions, saying that wild duck hunting is illegal in the Philippines. Singson's daughter, Richelle Singson- Michael, later claimed that the photos were “not taken in the Phillippines.”

In an administrative order late last year, the DENR declared a dipterocarp forest in Adams “a critical habitat for wildlife species.” — Rose-An Jessica Dioquino/BM, GMA News. 7 Apr 2014. (Source: http://www.gmanetwork.com)

Photo: Yeap Chin Aik/MNS HCP Update No. 6 December 2013 - June 2014 29 Regional News

KALIMANTAN’S ICON ON THE BRINK OF EXTINCTION

In the two weeks around the end of August, there were two attempts to smuggle hundreds of body parts of hornbills out of the country. The bird is West Kalimantan’s mascot and included in Appendix 1 (most endangered) of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES).

As many as 285 bills from enggang gading or helmeted hornbills were confiscated in the smuggling attempts, which were foiled by the Natural Resources Conservation Centre (BKSDA) of West Kalimantan. The centre described the number as unusually large, and has doubtless caused a reduction in the male hornbill population.

The birds’ casques, bound for China, are processed into objects of “art” like sword handles and other items. Middlemen buy them for between Rp 1 million (US$105) and Rp 3 million a piece, while on the international market the price will multiply.

Helmeted hornbills (Buceros/Rhinoplax Vigil), often called rangkong in Indonesian, are one of the eight hornbill species in Kalimantan. This species can also be found in Sumatra. It is a large bird, up to 120 cm long including its tail, with an average body weight over 3 kilograms. Mostly black, it has a white belly and a white tail with a black stripe at its extremity. Helmeted hornbills are adorned with fairly long pairs of mid-tail feathers, making them look very attractive in flight. They feed on the fruit of banyan and palm trees, besides insects, mice, lizards and small birds.

They live in pairs rather than flocks, and the female only lays one to two eggs, usually with only one hatching, which leads to very slow reproduction. They build nests in naturally formed tree holes that are hard to reach. While incubating, the female hornbills is completely incarcerated in the nest hole which is sealed with mud by the male, leaving only a small crack to supply food. Distinctively, if the female dies, male helmeted hornbills rarely seek new mates, which again contributes to slow population growth.

An adult male helmeted hornbill has a horny, maroon casque (or crown) weighing about 1 kilogram, made of solid keratin. This is his curse. The material is known as hornbill ivory or “golden jade”, and it is why people want to kill them.

Rangkong’s impressive and distinctive physical features have put it in a both a dangerous and prestigious position. He has inspired countries, regions and institutions.

The helmeted hornbill serves as the coat of arms of the Malaysian State of Sarawak. Enggang gading is the seal of Central Kalimantan province, and is the mascot of West Kalimantan. Lambung Mangkurat University in South Kalimantan and Palangkaraya University in Central Kalimantan use rangkong as their symbol. In Southern India, the Naga Tribe has a special festival to honour hornbills.

In daily life helmeted hornbills are admired by the Dayak in Kalimantan, for the lessons the community can learn from the behaviour of the species. Using many different reverencial names for the birds, the Dayak have many myths and legends in which hornbills are envoys of the gods with the task of conveying divine messages.

In their beliefs, the birds give living examples of fidelity to a spouse and responsibility for family life. The Dayak teach their children not to hurt or kill the sacred birds. Such deeds are taboo.

Photo: Yeap Chin Aik/MNS HCP Update No. 6 December 2013 - June 2014 30 Regional News

The position of enggang gading is illustrated in Dayak carving and art, particularly that of Dayak Iban, Ngaju and Kayaan Kenyah sub-groups. Kaharingan (Dayak religion) which places the birds atop the pyramid of being, in the realm of gods, with other creatures and men below them, and mythical animals like dragons at the base.

The birds have also inspired various craft products, songs, icons and patterns of clothing, especially as reflected in the images of Kalimantan batik.

Leonardus Dungo, 42, an artist in Pontianak, said the use of body parts from the helmeted hornbills like tail feathers, wings and beaks by certain individuals was indicative of their social position and status. Today their use for this purpose is rare except in customary rituals.

Some Dayak use the feathers and beaks of hornbills that have died naturally, usually after the birds have fought with each other. In recent years the community has avoided using genuine hornbill body parts as clothing accessories due to the increasing awareness of the birds’ shrinking numbers.

Dungo deplores the hunting of helmeted hornbills for their beaks or casques that threatens the birds with extinction. He called on the provincial BKSDA to take proactive action by intensifying its operation against hornbill hunting.

Napa J. Awat, 74, former rector of Palangkaraya University, says smuggling of hornbill casques reflects the situation in Kalimantan with its diverse issues. “Development today is inconsistent with the aim of regional autonomy. The people go hunting not as a hobby, but for survival.”

It is now very hard to find the birds in nature. Their remaining habitat in West Kalimantan, such as in Betung Kerihun National Park, Bukit Raya — Bukit Baka National Park, Gunung Palung National Park and Mount Niut Nature Reserve, has been reduced by forest destruction and the ceaseless expansion of monoculture estates, mainly for palm oil.

It is very important to start a movement for the protection of this near extinct bird. Social organizations like the Dayak Custom Communal Council (DAD) must be engaged in the campaign.

Boby Arya Anggen Umar, 37, a youth activist in Palangkaraya, said “DAD must work with the local government. They need funds for their campaigns and they need to end the killing of these birds. The government is either for us, or against us.”

According to Boby, DAD it is a matter of NGOs, activists and academics, working together to arouse public sentiment and make people understand the significance of protecting helmeted hornbills. The bird is a cultural and social icon, an inspirational source of Dayak culture.

Apart from hunting, population decline is caused by environmental degradation and habitat damage. Forest Watch Indonesia in its 2011 report said the forest destruction in Kalimantan during 2000– 2009 was over 36 percent, higher than any other island in Indonesia. -- Bambang Bider, Contributor, Pontianak. 13 Nov 2012. (Source: http://www.thejakartapost.com)

Photo: Yeap Chin Aik/MNS HCP Update No. 6 December 2013 - June 2014 31 Regional News

HORNBILL NEST ADOPTION PROGRAM Saving hornbill homes

Adopt hornbill nests and help protect threatened hornbill nests and habitats in Arunachal Pradesh

The Pakke Wildlife Sanctuary & Tiger Reserve in western Arunachal Pradesh is a haven for four species of hornbills in a region where hunting for various body parts, and habitat loss seriously threaten these birds. Since 2003, Pakke is well-protected due to the efforts of the Arunachal Pradesh Forest Department. NCF has a long-term hornbill nest and monitoring program in Pakke since 2003 where 30-40 hornbill nests were monitored each year in the park. However, the last two decades has seen rapid loss of the lowland forests outside Pakke, which is crucial nesting habitat for hornbills. This loss has mainly occurred in adjoining Assam, but the Papum Reserve Forest (1000 km2), which adjoins Pakke, which has, over the years, seen forest loss along with areas in adjoining Assam. Northern parts of Papum still harbour dense forests.

There was a need to ensure conservation of hornbill habitats outside and expand the protection and monitoring effort to areas outside the park. The best way to do this was to seek the participation of the Nyishi community who had banned hunting of hornbills. The Ghora-Aabhe (a local NGO formed by Nyishi village headmen for promoting conservation around Pakke) had been formed in 2006 with the support of the park management to help protection efforts. This led to the expansion of the programme in 2011 of hornbill nest monitoring and protection and sought the participation of the Nyishi community around Pakke who had banned hornbill hunting.

A three-way partnership between the Ghora-Aabhe Society, the Arunachal Pradesh Forest Department and the Nature Conservation Foundation led to the creation of the Hornbill Nest Adoption Program and an agreement has been made to protect hornbill nests. Nine villages along the southern boundary of Pakke are currently participating with 12 nest protectors, who find, monitor and protect nests of four hornbill species. Some of them are village headmen and former hunters.

The idea was to engage and bring together two sets of distant people united by the common desire to conserve; local and urban. The local community contributes by searching for, monitoring and protecting nests in the forests around their villages, while the urban community contributes by supporting the program financially and assisting as volunteers and coming as visitors.

HCP Update No. 6 December 2013 - June 2014 32 Regional News

A unique aspect of this program is that financial support is coming from urban citizens in different parts of India. They act as foster parents by adopting hornbill nests, while local people look after the nests to ensure they are not disturbed and that nest trees are not cut down. Concerned individuals adopt a hornbill nest at a cost (Rs. 5,000). They can also choose to adopt more nests or give a larger amount. They, in turn, receive information about the status of the nests and what happened to the hornbills that nested in a given year.

About 100 people have adopted nests, with most continuing their support every year. The Greater Vancouver Zoo, Canada, has also supported the program in 2013.

In 2013, 26 nests were found in the Papum Rainforest. Of these 12 were active (five Great, six Oriental Pied, and one Wreathed) and 11 successful, resulting in a nesting success rate of 91%.

A hornbill nest protector The money is used to sustain the program and pay the salaries of nest protectors, and provide some funds for community development and welfare.

Source: Hornbill Watch, India http://www.hornbills.in/index.php, Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/pages/Hornbill-Conservation-Program-NE- India/368922073135257

HCP Update No. 6 December 2013 - June 2014 33 Regional News

Update on the hornbill nesting progress in Pakke Wildlife Sanctuary, North-East India:

HCP Update No. 6 December 2013 - June 2014 34 Hornbill Records in Malaysia

Peninsular Malaysia December 2013-June 2014

Bushy-crested Hornbill Anorrhinus galeritus • 3 at Fraser's Hill old road, Selangor. 6 Feb 2014 (David Bakewell) • 1 at Fraser’s Hill, Pahang. 3 Mar 2014 (Sylvain Megy et al) • 2 at Gunung Tampin Recreational Forest, . 9 Mar 2014 (Sylvain Megy et al) • Heard at Bukit Larut (Maxwell's Hill), Perak. 30 Mar 2014 (Tan Choo Eng) • Heard at Hutan Lipur Sungai Sedim, Gunung Inas Forest Reserve, . 5 Mar 2014 (Choy Wai Mun) • Heard at Berjaya Hills, Bukit Tinggi, Pahang. 9 May 2014 (Yang Chong)

Oriental Pied Hornbill Anthracoceros albirostris • Desaru, Johor. 16 Dec 2013 (Lavanya Prakash) • Gunung Raya, Pulau Langkawi, Kedah. 14 Dec 2013 (David Bakewell et al) • 2 in flight at Malim Nawar wetlands/ex-mining ponds, Perak. 27 Dec 2013 (Tou Jing Yi et al) • 1 at Sekinchan ricefields, Selangor. 5 Jan 2014 (Chin Choong Liung et al) • 2 at Malim Nawar wetlands/ex-mining ponds, Perak. 18 Jan 2014 (Choy Wai Mun et al) • 1 at North Selangor Peat Swamp Forest, near Tanjung Karang, Selangor. 19 Jan 2014 (Tang Tuck Hong et al) • Heard at Kampung Temakah, Perak. 3 Feb 2014 (Tang Tuck Hong et al) • Forestry Department boardwalk, Kuala Sepetang, Perak. 16 Feb 2014 (Ng Kok Keong) • A male feeding on MacArthur palm at Lake Kenyir Resort , Terenganu. 19 Feb 2014 (Anuar McAfee) (Figure 1)

Figure 1

HCP Update No. 6 December 2013 - June 2014 35 Hornbill Records in Malaysia

• Bukit Melawati, , Selangor . 1 Mar 2014 (Sylvain Megy et al) • Jalan Parit satu - Sungai Tengi - Jalan Setanjung, Kuala Selangor, Selangor. 1 Mar 2014 (Sylvain Megy et al) • National Botanical Garden, Shah Alam . 6 Apr 2014 (Chin Choong Liung et al) • 2 in flight at Bagan Dalam. 14 Apr 2014 (Colm O Caomhanaigh) • 2 heard at Bunker Track, Panti Forest Reserve, Johor. 19 Apr 14 (Tan Kok Hui et al) • 2 at Kilim, Pulau Langkawi, Kedah. 16 Jun 2014. (Lim Bing Yee) • 1 in flight at Gunung Raya, Pulau Langkawi, Kedah. 17&21 Jun 2014 (Lim Bing Yee et al) • 1 in flight at Bon Ton Restaurant, Pulau Langkawi, Kedah. 18 Jun 2014 (Lim Bing Yee et al) • Temoyong village, Pulau Langkawi, Kedah. 21 Jun 2014 (Lim Bing Yee) • 1 heard at Taman Negara National Park (Hejia), Pahang. 22 Jun 2014 (Tan Kok Hui et al) • 4 at Kuala Koh, Taman Negara National Park, Kelantan. 26 Jun 2014 (Tan Kok Hui et al) • 6 at Tasik Kenyir, Terengganu. 28 Jun 2014 (Tan Kok Hui et al

Black Hornbill Anthracoceros malayanus • Heard 1 at Fraser's Hill old road, Selangor. 5 Feb 2014 (David Bakewell) • Heard at Bunker Track, Panti Forest Reserve, Johor . 22 Feb 2014 (Tan Choo Eng et al) • Jalan Parit satu - Sungai Tengi - Jalan Setanjung, Kuala Selangor, Selangor. 1 Mar 2014 (Sylvain Megy et al) • 1 at Panti Forest Reserve, Johor. 24 May & 7 Jun 2014 (Tan Kok Hui et al) • 1 feeding at Bunker Track, Panti Forest Reserve, Johor. 31 May 2014 (Tan Kok Hui) • 1 seen preening at FELDA Bukit Ramun, Kota Tinggi, Johor. 14 Jun 2014 (Sirhana Majri) • 1 seen perched and vocalising at FRIM research station, Pasoh Forest Reserve, Negeri Sembilan. On the second day seen hawking for insects. 14&15 Jun 2014 (Mark Ng et al)

Rhinoceros Hornbill Buceros rhinoceros • Japanese Garden, Bukit Tinggi, Pahang. 9 Dec 2013. (Choy Wai Mun et al) • 2 at Sungei Sedim Forest Reserve, Kedah. 14 Dec 2013. (Choy Wai Mun et al) • 1 at Japanese Garden, Bukit Tinggi, Pahang. 11 Feb 2014 (Ronnie Ooi) • 2 heard at Bunker Track, Panti Forest Reserve, Johor. 22 Feb 2014. (Tan Choo Eng) • 1 seen in flight at Hutan Lipur Sungai Sedim, Gunung Inas Forest Reserve, Kedah. 1 Mar 2014. (Choy Wai Mun et al) • Sungai Sedim, Kedah. 1 Mar 2014 (Choy Wai Mun) • 1 heard at Hutan Lipur Sungai Sedim, Gunung Inas Forest Reserve, Kedah. 15 Mar 2014 (Choy Wai Mun et al) • 2 at Sungei Sedim Forest Reserve, Kedah. 22 Mar 2014 (Tan Choo Eng et al) • Bukit Larut (Maxwell's Hill), Perak. 29 Mar 2014 (Penang Branch Trip) • Heard at Sungei Sedim Forest Reserve, Kedah. (Tan Choo Eng) • 1 heard at Berjaya Hills, Bukit Tinggi, Pahang. 9 May 2014 (Yang Chong et al) • Heard at Gerik/Kupang access, Bintang Hijau Forest Reserve, Perak. 10 May 2014 (Choy Wai Mun et al) • Ulu Paip Forest Reserve, Kedah. 13 May 2014 (Colm O Caomhanaigh) • Heard at Berjaya Hills, Bukit Tinggi, Pahang. 23 May 2014 (Lim Bing Yee) • 2 at Taman Negara National Park (), Pahang. 22 Jun 2014 (Kok Hui Tan et al) • 1 at Taman Negara National Park (), Pahang. 28 Jun 2014 (Ang Teck Hin et al)

Great Hornbill Buceros bicornis • 2 in flight at Awana pumphouse road, , Pahang. 29 Dec 2013 (Tang Tuck Hong) • The Gap (Lower Gate), Fraser Hill, Hulu Selangor, Selangor. 31 Dec 2013 (Frolena Kumar)

HCP Update No. 6 December 2013 - June 2014 36 Hornbill Records in Malaysia

• Mata Ayer Forest Reserve, State Park (Wang Kelian State Park), Perlis. 19 Feb 2014 (David Bakewell et al) • 2 at Bukit Wang Recreational Forest, Jitra, Kedah. 20 Feb 2014 (David Bakewell et al) • Ajil, Terengganu. 3 Mar 2014 (Zul Ya) • Nesting at Langkawi, Kedah. 21 Mar 2014 (Andy Lee) (Figure 2) • 1 breeding individual at Bukit Larut (Maxwell's Hill), Perak. 29 Mar 2014 (Penang Branch Trip) • Gunung Raya, Pulau Langkawi, Kedah. 17-29, 21 Jun 2014 (Lim Bing Yee et al)

Helmeted Hornbill Rhinoplax vigil • Japanese Garden, Bukit Tinggi, Pahang. 6&9 Dec 2013 (James Eaton et al) • 1 heard at Hutan Lipur Sungai Sedim, Gunung Inas Forest Reserve, Kedah. 1& 15 Mar 2014 (Choy Wai Mun et al) • Heard at Bukit Larut (Maxwell's Hill), Perak. 29 Mar 2014 (Penang Branch Trip) • 1 at Japanese Garden, Bukit Tinggi, Pahang. 6 Apr 2014 (James Eaton et al) • Heard at Hutan Lipur Sungai Sedim, Gunung Inas Forest Reserve, Kedah. 5 Mar 2014 (Choy Wai Mun et al) • Heard at Kuala Tahan, Taman Negara National Park (Kuala Tahan), Pahang. 5 Oct 2014 (Rosli Omar) • 1 heard at Taman Negara National Park (Merapoh), Pahang. 22 Jun 2014 (Kok Hui Tan et al) • 1 in flight at Hutan Lipur Sungai Sedim, Gunung Inas Forest Reserve, Kedah. 28 Jun 2014 (Choy Wai Mun)

Wreathed Hornbill Aceros undulatus • 2 in flight at Kampung Kisap, Pulau Langkawi, Kedah. 14 Dec 2013 (David Bakewell et al) • A pair at Awana pumphouse road, Genting Highlands, Pahang. 19 Dec 2013 (Tang Tuck Hong et al) • 4 in flight at Kampung Temakah, Perak. 3 Feb 2014 (Tang Tuck Hong et al)

Figure 2

HCP Update No. 6 December 2013 - June 2014 37 Hornbill Records in Malaysia

• 3 at Bukit Wang Recreational Forest, Jitra, Kedah. 20 Feb 2014 (David Bakewell et al) • 2 in flight at Hutan Lipur Sungai Sedim, Gunung Inas Forest Reserve, Kedah. 1 Mar 2014 (Choy Wai Mun et al) • Sungai Sedim, Kedah. 1&5 Mar 2014 (Choy Wai Mun et al) • 3 at Bukit Larut (Maxwell's Hill), Perak. 29 & 30 Mar 2014 (Penang Branch Trip) • 2 at Japanese Garden, Bukit Tinggi, Pahang. 6 Apr 2014 (James Eaton et al) • 1 at Berjaya Hills, Bukit Tinggi, Pahang. 9 May 2014 (Yang Chong et al) • 1 at Panti Forest Reserve, Johor. 24 May 2014 (Kok Hui Tan et al) • 1 at Awana pumphouse road, Genting Highlands, Pahang. 25 May 2014 (Yang Chong et al) • Highest count of 50 at Gunung Raya, Pulau Langkawi, Kedah. 17,19&21 Jun 2014 (Lim Bing Yee et al) • 2 at Hutan Lipur Sungai Sedim, Gunung Inas Forest Reserve, Kedah. 28 Jun 2014 (Choy Wai Mun)

HCP Update No. 6 December 2013 - June 2014 38 Hornbill sightings in Peninsular Malaysia December 2013-June 2014

Location with Hornbill sightings

Map data © 2014 Google Hornbill Records in Malaysia

East Malaysia December 2013-June 2014

Bushy-crested Hornbill Anorrhinus galeritus • Paya Maga, Lawas, Sarawak. 2-3, 6&7 Feb 2014 (Yeo Siew Teck et al) • 6 at Sungai Kinabatangan, . 5&7 Apr 2014 (Selangor Bird Group trip) • 3 at Rainforest Discovery Center, Sepilok, Sabah. 8 Apr 2014 (Selangor Bird Group trip)

Oriental Pied Hornbill Anthracoceros albirostris • 40 at Sungai Kinabatangan, Sabah. 5-7 Apr 2014 (Selangor Bird Group trip) • Heard call at Rainforest Discovery Center, Sepilok, Sabah. 8 Apr 2014 (Selangor Bird Group trip)

Black Hornbill Anthracoceros malayanus • 3 at Sungai Kinabatangan, Sabah. 5-7 Apr 2014 (Selangor Bird Group trip) • 2 at Rainforest Discovery Center, Sepilok, Sabah. 7 Apr 2014 (Selangor Bird Group trip)

Rhinoceros Hornbill Buceros rhinoceros • 2 at Paya Maga, Lawas, Sarawak. 7 Feb, 2-3 Mar 2014 (Yeo Siew Teck) • Bario, Kalabit Highlands, Sarawak. 7 Mar 2014 (Yeo Siew Teck) • 2 at Sungai Kinabatangan, Sabah. 6 Apr 2014 (Selangor Bird Group trip)

Helmeted Hornbill Rhinoplax vigil • Paya Maga, Lawas, Sarawak. 2&3 Mar 2014 (Yeo Siew Teck et al) • Bario, Kalabit Highlands, Sarawak. 8 Mar 2014 (Yeo Siew Teck)

Wreathed Hornbill Aceros undulatus • Paya Maga, Lawas, Sarawak. 3 Mar 2014 (Yeo Siew Teck et al)

HCP Update No. 6 December 2013 - June 2014 40 Hornbill Records in Malaysia

Hornbill sightings in December 2013-June 2014

Location with Hornbill sightings

Map data © 2014 Google

Records were gathered from the Bird I-Witness (BIW) database (http://birdlaa5.memset.net/worldbirds/malaysia.php?a=lo) , blogs, online forums and Facebook groups.

HCP Update No. 6 December 2013 - June 2014 41 A male Rhinoceros Hornbill enticing the female with fruit to enter the tree hole to nest in Sungai Sedim. Photo: Choy Wai Mun

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HCP Update No. 6 December 2013 - June 2014