For those who plan to do Pulau Burung birdwatching, you should know that this birding location was once celebrated as a migratory hotspot where birds would gather on the island before continuing their journey to Tanjung Tuan. Although the migration patterns have shifted, the island remains a habitat for various bird species.
Pulau Burung, which translates to “Bird Island,” is a 1.5-hectare island adjacent to Pantai Cahaya Negeri in Port Dickson, Negeri Sembilan, and is renowned for its rich birdlife and scenic beauty. Many locals come here to enjoy the nature and also to see the beautiful sunset.
Pulau Burung Birdwatching
The island is part of a sea swamp forest. It is home to mangrove trees such as Api-api Putih (Avecennia alba), Bakau Minyak (Rhizophora apiculata), and Bakau Kurap (Rhizophora mucronata), which provide a natural habitat for birds and other mangrove wildlife.
A two-story observation tower on the island offers panoramic views of the surrounding area, including Pantai Cahaya Negeri and the Straits of Melaka Sea. This tower is an excellent spot for birdwatchers to observe birds in their natural habitat and enjoy the island’s scenic beauty.
A well-maintained walkway connects the mainland to Pulau Burung, facilitating easy access for visitors. This path allows birdwatchers to explore the island’s natural habitat comfortably.
Birds of Pulau Burung
A checklist from eBird recorded 43 birds roosting in the mangroves and its surroundings, which include:
- Grey Heron (Ardea cinerea)
- Little Egret (Egretta garzetta)
- Common Kingfisher (Alcedo atthis)
- White-throated Kingfisher (Halcyon smyrnensis)
- Pacific Golden Plover (Pluvialis fulva)
- Common Sandpiper (Actitis hypoleucos)
- Asian Dowitcher (Limnodromus semipalmatus)
- Red-necked Stint (Calidris ruficollis)
- Brahminy Kite (Haliastur indus)
- Oriental Honey Buzzard (Pernis ptilorhynchus)
- White-bellied Sea Eagle (Haliaeetus leucoryphus)
- Mangrove Blue Flycatcher (Cyornis rufigastra)
- Barn Swallow (Hirundo rustica)
Best Time to Visit Pulau Burung: For optimal birdwatching, plan your visit in the early morning or late afternoon, when birds are most active. Arriving around 7.00 AM would be recommended. Migratory birds are also best seen from October to April.
Facilities at Pulau Burung: The island features a three-storey watchtower for bird observation and panoramic views. There are no washroom facilities around here, only at the main beach area.
How to Go to Pulau Burung: Pulau Burung is connected to the mainland by a 180-meter-long bridge from Pantai Cahaya Negeri, ensuring a seamless transition between the mainland and the island.
Conclusion
Pulau Burung birdwatching is suitable for all types of birders and for those who want to get out of the city and somewhere nearby. This is one of the many places just out of Kuala Lumpur where you can do some easy birding and enjoy the seaside.
