Raptor Watch 2026

Raptor Watch is the Malaysian Nature Society’s annual celebration of the spectacular spring migration of birds of prey at Tanjung Tuan, also known as Cape Rachado. Located on the border of Melaka and Negeri Sembilan, this forested headland is one of the most important raptor migration watchpoints in Southeast Asia.

Every year, thousands of migratory birds of prey funnel through this narrow coastal promontory after crossing the Straits of Malacca, creating one of Malaysia’s most exciting wildlife spectacles.

What Happens at Raptor Watch

Raptor Watch is both a birding event and a conservation outreach programme. Visitors can expect:

• Guided raptor watching and counting sessions led by experienced birders and researchers
• Educational talks on raptor migration, identification and conservation
• Nature walks within the coastal forest reserve
• Exhibition booths by conservation organisations, government agencies and local partners
• Family-friendly and educational activities designed to raise awareness of migratory birds and habitat protection

The focus is on observing northbound migratory raptors such as Oriental Honey-buzzards, Chinese Goshawks, Black Bazas and other birds of prey that use Tanjung Tuan as a crucial resting and navigation point.

Why birdwatchers and nature lovers should attend

• A front-row seat to migration
  Tanjung Tuan offers one of the most reliable and accessible raptor migration viewing experiences in the region. On good days, birds can be seen soaring overhead in steady numbers, often at close range.
• Excellent learning opportunities
  Raptor Watch is ideal for both beginners and experienced birders. Experts on site help visitors learn raptor identification, migration patterns and counting techniques, making it a valuable hands-on learning experience.
• Photography opportunities
  The combination of migrating raptors, coastal skies and the historic lighthouse provides strong photographic potential. The surrounding forest and coastline also offer chances to photograph other birds, butterflies and landscapes.
• Supporting conservation
  By attending Raptor Watch, visitors support conservation awareness and the long-term protection of migratory flyways and coastal forests. The event plays an important role in educating the public about habitat preservation and responsible nature tourism.

Practical tips for visitors

• Arrive early, as the best raptor movement often happens in the morning
• Be prepared to walk uphill to the lighthouse area, as vehicle access is usually restricted during the event
• Bring binoculars or a spotting scope, sun protection, water and comfortable walking shoes
• The weather can change quickly, so light rain protection is useful

Rapptor Watch 2026 Dates, Time and Venue

The Raptor Watch 2026 edition will be held from 14-15 March at Tanjung Tuan, as usual. For new visitors, additional information is below. Self-driving is recommended, and use Google Maps or Waze to get here. It’s in Port Dickson, Negeri Sembilan.

The venue is the Tanjung Tuan Forest Reserve, with activities centred around the Cape Rachado Lighthouse and surrounding trails. Event activities typically run from morning until late afternoon, roughly between 8.00 or 9.00 am and 5.00 pm, depending on weather and migration conditions.

Visitors are also advised to check official Malaysian Nature Society announcements closer to the date for confirmed schedules, programmes and any registration requirements.

Conclusion

Raptor Watch 2026 at Tanjung Tuan promises another opportunity to witness one of nature’s most impressive migration events while learning about bird conservation in Malaysia. Although the official dates and programme have yet to be confirmed, the event is expected to take place in late February or early March at the Cape Rachado Lighthouse area.

Don’t forget to check out the other birdwatching events and festivals in Malaysia. For birdwatchers, photographers and nature lovers, Raptor Watch remains a must-attend event that combines wildlife spectacle, education and conservation in a unique coastal setting.