Raptor Watch

Just got back to KL/PJ from Raptor Watch 2006. An event organised by the Malaysian Nature Society (MNS) to welcome migrating birds of prey on their way to North Asia. It was held at Tanjung Tuan beach. Near the lighthouse which marks the narrowest part of the Straits of Malacca, one of the busiest shipping routes in the world.

Got burnt on my uncovered parts. Eg stripey feet and pale band on wrist. But great birds and great company. Met up with my long time bird -watching buddies and many more.

My job was to mind the official score-board keeping count of the raptors counted by official counters when they come across the Striats of Malacca from Sumatra. The sight of hundreds of big birds circling above you is awesome. Even if you're usually indifferent to birds. See photo by Wong Kim Seng.

Close up shot of the common raptor species seen. An Oriental Honey-Buzzard.