Avifauna refers to the bird species present in a particular region, encompassing a diverse array of birds that vary in size, behavior, and habitat preferences. These birds play crucial ecological roles, such as pollination, seed dispersal, and pest control, contributing significantly to the health and balance of ecosystems. Avifauna diversity can be an indicator of environmental quality, with certain species thriving in pristine conditions while others may adapt to more disturbed environments. Conservation efforts often focus on avifauna due to their sensitivity to habitat changes and the presence of many endangered species, whose protection is vital for maintaining biodiversity. Monitoring and studying avifauna help in understanding broader ecological dynamics and in formulating strategies for wildlife conservation.
Caloperdix oculeus
The ferruginous partridge (Caloperdix oculeus) is a bird species found in Southeast Asia, known for its distinctive reddish-brown plumage with intricate black and white markings. It inhabits dense forests and bamboo thickets, primarily in countries like Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia. These birds are ground-dwelling and prefer secluded areas, feeding on seeds, insects, and small invertebrates. Due to habitat loss and fragmentation, their populations are under threat, leading to concerns about their conservation status.
Protection status : Total protected
IUCN status : Near threatened
Polyplectron malacense
The Malayan peacock-pheasant, also known as Polyplectron malacense, is a strikingly beautiful bird native to the lowland rainforests of the Malay Peninsula. Recognizable by its iridescent, peacock-like plumage adorned with eye-catching, metallic blue-green spots, this pheasant is a ground-dwelling species that forages for insects and seeds. Males are particularly noted for their elaborate courtship displays, where they fan out their tails to showcase the vibrant eye spots to attract females. Sadly, habitat loss and hunting have made the Malayan peacock-pheasant a vulnerable species, highlighting the need for conservation efforts.
Protection status : Total protected
IUCN status : Vulnerable
Argusianus argus
The Malayan Great Argus (Argusianus argus) is a large and striking pheasant native to the rainforests of Southeast Asia, particularly in Malaysia, Sumatra, and Borneo. Renowned for the elaborate and intricate plumage of the males, this bird features extremely long tail feathers adorned with eye-like patterns used in courtship displays to attract females. The species is known for its loud calls and impressive mating dances, where the male fans out its feathers to form a stunning display. Despite its remarkable appearance, the Malayan Great Argus is currently facing threats from habitat loss and hunting, leading to a decline in its population.
Protection status : Total protected
IUCN status : Near threatened
Haliaeetus humilis
The Lesser Fish Eagle (Haliaeetus humilis) is a medium-sized bird of prey found in the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia, primarily near large rivers and lakes. It has a distinctive brownish plumage with a whitish head and underparts, and its diet mainly consists of fish. This eagle is often seen perched on trees or rocks close to water bodies, from where it swoops down to catch fish with its sharp talons. The species is currently classified as Near Threatened due to habitat loss and water pollution affecting its food sources.
Protection status : Total protected
IUCN status : Near threatened
Haliaeetus ichthyaetus
The grey-headed fish eagle (Haliaeetus ichthyaetus) is a large bird of prey found in South Asia, Southeast Asia, and parts of China. Recognizable by its distinctive grey head, white belly, and dark brown wings and back, it primarily inhabits forested areas near rivers, lakes, and wetlands. This eagle feeds mainly on fish, which it catches with powerful talons. Despite its wide range, the species is considered near-threatened due to habitat loss and declining fish populations in its habitats.
Protection status : Total protected
IUCN status : Near threatened
Psittinus cyanurus
The blue-rumped parrot (Psittinus cyanurus) is a small, vibrantly colored parrot native to Southeast Asia, including countries like Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand. Recognizable by its distinctive blue rump, this species exhibits sexual dimorphism, with males displaying a brighter coloration compared to females. They inhabit lowland forests, mangroves, and cultivated areas, feeding primarily on fruits, seeds, and insects. Known for their noisy, social behavior, blue-rumped parrots are also cavity nesters, often using tree holes for breeding. Despite being relatively common within their range, habitat destruction poses a threat to their population.
Protection status : Total protected
IUCN status : Near threatened
Centropus rectunguis
The short-toed coucal (Centropus rectunguis) is a large, ground-dwelling bird found in Southeast Asia, including parts of Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia. It has a distinctive appearance with a long tail, short toes, and brown plumage with barred patterns. This bird inhabits dense forests and swamps, where it feeds on insects, small vertebrates, and fruits. Notably elusive and secretive, the short-toed coucal is known for its melodious, low-pitched calls. Conservation efforts are essential for its survival due to habitat loss and fragmentation.
Protection status : Total protected
IUCN status : Vulnerable
Phaenicophaeus sumatranus
The Chestnut-bellied Malkoha (Phaenicophaeus sumatranus) is a large, colorful bird found in the forests of Southeast Asia, including the Malay Peninsula, Sumatra, and Borneo. It is distinguished by its striking chestnut-colored underparts, greenish upperparts, and a long, graduated tail. This species is typically seen in pairs or small groups, often moving through the forest canopy in search of insects and small vertebrates. Despite its bright plumage, it can be elusive due to its preference for dense forest habitats.
Protection status : Total protected
IUCN status : Near threatened
Phaenicophaeus diardi
The Black-bellied Malkoha is a striking bird found in Southeast Asia, known for its distinctive appearance and behavior. Sporting glossy black plumage with a vibrant blue-green sheen, it boasts a long tail and a unique curved beak. These arboreal birds are skilled climbers, often found in dense forests and woodlands, where they feed on a diet consisting mainly of insects, fruits, and small reptiles. Their breeding habits typically involve building platform nests in trees, where they lay their eggs. The species is admired by birdwatchers for its stunning appearance and elusive nature in its natural habitat.
Protection status : Total protected
IUCN status : Near threatened
Harpactes duvaucelii
The scarlet-rumped trogon is a striking bird found in the forests of South and Central America. Its most distinctive feature is its vibrant scarlet-red lower back and rump, which contrasts with its dark green upperparts. With a short, stout bill and a robust body, it primarily feeds on insects and fruits. This species prefers dense, humid forests where it nests in tree cavities. Its melodious calls resonate through the forest, adding to the enchanting ambiance of its habitat.
Protection status : Total protected
IUCN status : Near threatened
Actenoides concretus
The Rufous-collared Kingfisher, scientifically known as Actenoides concretus, is a striking bird native to the forests of Southeast Asia, particularly found in Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand. It is characterized by its vibrant plumage, with a combination of rich rufous and blue-green hues, and its distinct call echoing through the dense foliage. Preferring the sheltered environment of mature forests, it primarily feeds on insects and small vertebrates, often perching patiently before diving swiftly to catch its prey. This elusive species faces threats from habitat loss and degradation, highlighting the importance of conservation efforts to safeguard its future survival.
Protection status : Total protected
IUCN status : Near threatened
Anthracoceros malayanus
The black hornbill is a medium-sized bird native to the tropical forests of Southeast Asia, including Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia. It has mostly black plumage, a large curved bill topped with a prominent casque, and white underparts on the tail. This hornbill is known for its loud calls and important role in the ecosystem as a seed disperser, especially for large forest trees. It typically feeds on fruits, insects, and small animals. Due to habitat loss and hunting.
Protection Status : Totally Protected
IUCN Status : Near threatened
Buceros bicornis
The great hornbill one of the largest and most striking hornbill species, found in the forests of India, Southeast Asia, and the Malay Peninsula. It is easily recognized by its massive yellow and black casque on top of its large bill, and its impressive wingspan, which can reach up to 1.8 meters. The bird has a mostly black body with white and yellow markings on its neck and wings, and striking red eyes in males. Great hornbills are frugivores, mainly feeding on figs and other fruits, but they also eat small animals. They play a vital role in forest regeneration through seed dispersal.
Protection Status : Totally Protected
IUCN Status : Near Threatened
Buceros rhinoceros
The rhinoceros hornbill is a large and iconic bird found in the rainforests of Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, and Borneo. It is known for its striking appearance, especially its bright orange and red casque that curves upward like a horn, resembling a rhinoceros. With mostly black feathers, white legs and tail, and a powerful yellow bill, it is one of the most recognizable hornbills. Rhinoceros hornbills primarily eat fruits but also consume insects and small animals. They are culturally significant in many indigenous communities and play an essential role in forest ecology as seed dispersers.
Protection Status :Totally Protected
IUCN Status : Near Threatened
Rhinoplax vigil
The helmeted hornbill is a rare and unique bird native to the forests of Malaysia, Thailand, Sumatra, and Borneo. It is easily recognized by its large size and solid, helmet-like casque on top of its bill, which is used in aerial battles between males. Unlike other hornbills, its casque is solid and made of keratin, often referred to as "hornbill ivory," which sadly makes it a target for illegal poaching. The bird has a black body, white belly, and long central tail feathers, with a loud, haunting call that echoes through the forest. Helmeted hornbills feed mainly on figs and play an important role in seed dispersal.
Protection Status : Totally Protected
IUCN Status : Near Threatened
Berenicornis comatus
The white-crowned hornbill is a striking and rare hornbill species found in the lowland rainforests of Malaysia, Thailand, Sumatra, and Borneo. It is easily identified by its shaggy white crest and face, contrasting with its mostly black body and long white tail. This bird has a long, curved bill and a relatively small casque compared to other hornbills. White-crowned hornbills live in small groups and feed on fruits, insects, and small animals, playing a key role in forest seed dispersal.
Protection Status : Totally Protected
UICN Status : Near Threatened
Rhabdotorrhinus corrugatus
The Wrinkled Hornbill is a unique bird found in the rainforests of Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia. It has a large yellow beak with wrinkled ridges on top and black feathers with white or yellowish belly. The male has a bright orange casque, while the female’s casque is smaller and darker. This bird lives high in the trees and eats mostly fruits, especially figs.
Protection Status : Totally Protected
UICN Status : Near Threatened
Megalaima rafflesii
The Red-crowned Barbet is a colorful bird found in the rainforests of Southeast Asia, including Malaysia. It has green feathers, a red patch on its head, and blue and yellow markings on its face and body. This bird lives high up in the trees and makes a loud, repeated call. The Red-crowned Barbet eats fruits and insects.
Protection Status : Totally Protected
UICN Status : Near Threatened
Psilopogon mystacophanos
The Red-throated Barbet is a small, colorful bird found in the rainforests of Malaysia and nearby countries. It has green feathers, a bright red throat, and blue and yellow markings on its head. This bird lives in trees and makes loud, repeated calls. It eats mostly fruits and insects.
Protection Status : Totally Protected
UICN Status : Near Threatened
Psilopogon henricii
The Yellow-crowned Barbet is a colorful bird found in the rainforests of Peninsular Malaysia, Sumatra, and Borneo. It has mostly green feathers with a yellow crown on its head and blue and black markings on its face. This bird lives high in the trees and makes loud, repeating calls. It feeds mainly on fruits, especially figs.
Protection status : Total protected
IUCN status : Near threatened
Dryocopus javensis
The White-bellied Woodpecker is a large woodpecker found in the forests of Southeast Asia, including Malaysia. It has a black body, a white belly, and a bright red crest on its head. This bird is known for its loud drumming sound as it pecks on tree trunks to find insects. It lives in old, tall trees and helps keep forests healthy by controlling insect populations.
Protection status :
IUCN status :
Gecinulus rafflesii
The Olive-backed Woodpecker is a small woodpecker found in the rainforests of Malaysia and Southeast Asia. It has an olive-green back, reddish head, and light-colored belly. This bird uses its strong beak to peck on trees and look for insects to eat. It lives in lowland forests and is often hard to spot because it blends in with the trees. The Olive-backed Woodpecker is near threatened due to forest loss, and it is totally protected in Malaysia.
Protection status: Total protected
IUCN status: Near threatened
Mulleripicus pulverulentus
The Great Slaty Woodpecker is the largest woodpecker in Asia. It has dark grey feathers, a long neck, and a strong bill used to dig into trees for insects. This bird lives in old, tall forests and is often seen in small groups. Sadly, the Great Slaty Woodpecker is threatened because many forests are being cut down, making it hard for them to find food and places to live.
Protection status : Total protected
IUCN status : Vulnerable
Calyptomena viridis
The Green Broadbill is a small, bright green bird found in the rainforests of Southeast Asia. It has a round body, a short tail, and a fluffy appearance that helps it blend into the leaves. This bird eats mostly fruits and stays hidden in the forest canopy. The Green Broadbill is near threatened because its forest home is being destroyed by logging and farming. Protecting its habitat is important to keep this beautiful bird safe.
Protection status : Total protected
IUCN status : Near threatened
Eurylaimus ochromalus
The Black-and-yellow Broadbill is a colorful bird found in the rainforests of Southeast Asia. It has a black head, bright yellow belly, pink chest, and striking yellow wings. This bird makes a soft, whistling sound and often stays in pairs or small groups. The Black-and-yellow Broadbill is near threatened due to habitat loss as forests are cleared for farming and development. Protecting rainforest areas is important for its survival.
Protection status : Total protected
IUCN status : Near threatened
Erythropitta granatina
The Garnet Pitta is a striking forest bird found in Southeast Asia. It has deep red and blue feathers with a black head and a bright blue stripe above its eyes. This shy bird lives on the forest floor, feeding on insects and small creatures. The Garnet Pitta is near threatened because its rainforest habitat is being destroyed by logging and land clearing. Saving its forest home is key to protecting this beautiful bird.
Protection status : Total protected
IUCN status : Near threatened
Aegithina viridissima
The Green Iora is a small bird found in the lowland rainforests of Malaysia and Southeast Asia. It has bright green feathers, with yellow underparts and black wings. This bird is active and often seen hopping among the trees while looking for insects and small fruits. It makes soft, musical calls. The Green Iora is near threatened due to habitat loss, and it is totally protected in Malaysia.
Protection status : Total protected
IUCN status : Near threatened
Pericrocotus igneus
The Fiery Minivet is a small and colorful bird found in the lowland forests of Malaysia and Southeast Asia. The male has bright orange and black feathers, while the female is yellow and grey. It usually moves in small groups and feeds on insects in the treetops. This bird is known for its beautiful colors and quick movements.
Protection status : Total protected
IUCN status : Near threatened
Platylophus galericulatus
The Crested Jay is a rare and secretive bird that lives in the lowland rainforests of Malaysia, Sumatra, and Borneo. It has dark brown to black feathers, a long tail, and a large, pointed crest on its head, which gives it a unique look. This bird usually stays hidden in dense forest, moving quietly through the trees. It feeds on insects, small animals, and sometimes fruits. Because of its quiet nature, it is rarely seen, even in areas where it lives
Protection status : Total protected
IUCN status : Near threatened
Platysmurus leucopterus
The Black Magpie is a medium-sized black bird found in the rainforests of Malaysia, Sumatra, and Borneo. It has shiny black feathers, a long tail, and a loud, varied call. Some have white patches on their wings. This bird is clever and often moves in small groups, feeding on insects, small animals, and fruits.
Protection status : Total protected
IUCN status : Near threatened
Microtarsus melanoleucos
The Black-and-White Bulbul is a small, active bird that lives in the lowland rainforests of Peninsular Malaysia and Sumatra. It has a black head, back, and wings, with a white throat, belly, and underparts, creating a beautiful contrast. This bird is often seen flying between tree branches in pairs or small groups. It feeds mainly on fruits, berries, and insects, helping with seed dispersal in the forest. Its call is soft and musical.
Protection status : Total protected
IUCN status : Near threatened
Ixodia cyaniventris
The Grey-bellied Bulbul is a small and colorful bird found in the lowland and hill forests of Peninsular Malaysia, Borneo, and Sumatra. It has an olive-green back, a yellow throat and chest, and a grey belly, which gives the bird its name. This bulbul is often seen in small flocks, feeding on fruits and berries, especially figs. It plays an important role in the forest by helping to spread seeds.
Protection status : Total protected
IUCN status : Near threatened
Euptilotus eutilotus
The Puff-backed Bulbul is a medium-sized bird found in the lowland rainforests of Peninsular Malaysia, Sumatra, and Borneo. It has olive-green feathers, a whitish belly, and a fluffy-looking back, which gives it the name “puff-backed.” This shy bird usually stays hidden in thick forest and is often seen alone or in pairs. It feeds on fruits, especially figs, and sometimes small insects.
Protection status : Total protected
IUCN status : Near threatened
Iole olivacea
The Buff-vented Bulbul is a medium-sized songbird found in the lowland and hill forests of Peninsular Malaysia, Sumatra, and Borneo. It has olive-green upperparts, a pale yellowish belly, and a buff-colored patch near the vent area, which gives it its name. This bird is usually quiet and shy, often seen alone or in small groups in the treetops. It feeds mainly on fruits and berries, playing a role in seed dispersal in the forest.
Protection status : Total protected
IUCN status : Near threatened
Ixos malaccensis
The Streaked Bulbul is a medium-sized bulbul found in the lowland and hill forests of Peninsular Malaysia, Sumatra, and Borneo. It has olive-brown feathers with distinct streaks on its head and chest, giving it a slightly messy appearance. Its eyes are often reddish, which makes it easy to recognize. This bird is usually seen in the forest canopy, feeding on fruits, especially figs, and sometimes insects. It helps in spreading seeds through the forest
Protection status : Total protected
IUCN status : Near threatened
Alcippe brunneicauda
The Brown Fulvetta is a small, brown songbird found in the lowland rainforests of Peninsular Malaysia, Sumatra, and Borneo. It has plain brown feathers, a pale throat, and a short tail, making it blend well into the forest. This shy bird usually stays in the undergrowth or lower parts of the forest, moving in small groups. It feeds on insects, small invertebrates, and sometimes berries.
Protection status : Total protected
IUCN status : Near threatened
Stachyris nigricollis
The Black-throated Babbler is a small, shy bird found in the lowland rainforests of Malaysia, Sumatra, and Borneo. It has a brown body, a white face, and a black throat, which makes it easy to recognize. This bird is often seen in thick undergrowth, moving in pairs or small groups. It feeds on insects and small invertebrates, searching through leaves and branches.
Protection status : Total protected
IUCN status : Near threatened
Stachyris maculata
The Chestnut-rumped Babbler is a small, active bird found in the lowland and hill forests of Peninsular Malaysia, Sumatra, and Borneo. It has brown upperparts, a pale face and throat, and a chestnut-colored patch on its lower back or rump, which gives the bird its name. This babbler is usually seen in pairs or small groups, moving quickly through thick vegetation close to the ground. It feeds on insects and other small invertebrates.
Protection status : Total protected
IUCN status : Near threatened
Macronus ptilosus
The Fluffy-backed Tit-Babbler is a small and active bird found in the lowland rainforests of Malaysia, Sumatra, and Borneo. It has brownish upperparts, a white throat, and soft, fluffy feathers on its back, which give the bird its name. This babbler often moves in pairs or small flocks, staying low in the forest and making quick movements through dense vegetation. It feeds on insects and other small invertebrates.
Protection status : Total protected
IUCN status : Near threatened
Malacopteron affine
The Sooty-capped Babbler is a small, forest-dwelling bird found in the lowland and hill forests of Malaysia, Sumatra, and Borneo. It has brownish body feathers and a dark, sooty-colored cap on its head, which makes it easy to identify. This babbler is often seen in pairs or small groups, moving actively through the undergrowth while searching for insects and small creatures. Its calls are sharp and repeated.
Protection status : Total protected
IUCN status : Near threatened
Pellorneum rostratum
The White-chested Babbler is a small, ground-dwelling bird found in the lowland forests and mangroves of Malaysia, Sumatra, and Borneo. It has brown upperparts, a white chest and throat, and a long, slightly curved bill. This bird is often seen in pairs or small groups, staying close to the forest floor as it searches for insects and small invertebrates. It is shy and quick, often disappearing into thick vegetation.
Protection status : Total protected
IUCN status : Near threatened
Kenopia striata
The Striped Wren-babbler, also called Kenopia, is a small and secretive bird found in the lowland rainforests of Peninsular Malaysia, Sumatra, and Borneo. It has brown upperparts, a white belly with bold black stripes, and a slightly curved bill. This bird stays close to the ground and is usually seen alone or in pairs, moving quietly through dense undergrowth. It feeds on insects and small invertebrates.
Protection status : Total protected
IUCN status : Near threatened
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Chloropsis cyanopogon
The Lesser Green Leafbird is a small, bright green bird found in the lowland and hill forests of Malaysia, Sumatra, and Borneo. It has vibrant green feathers, with a black mask on the face in males, while females are plainer. This bird is active and often seen in the treetops, feeding on fruits, nectar, and insects. Its sweet, whistling calls can be heard in the forest.
Protection status : Total protected
IUCN status : Near threatened