REPORT: Introduction to Birdwatching at Taman Tasik Permaisuri, Kuala Lumpur, by MNSSBBG

On Merdeka Day, 31st August 2026, the Malaysian Nature Society Selangor Branch Bird Group (MNSSBBG) organised an “Introduction to Birdwatching” activity in Taman Tasik Permaisuri, Kuala Lumpur.

Photo: Liu Lai Wah

Our group of 18 participants, consisting of MNS members and friends, first headed toward the heronry island in the middle of the lake. Along the way, we saw huge catfish and a soft-shelled turtle. A long, dark, and handsome monitor lizard basking beside the lake brought much delight to our group, and many could not resist photographing it.

The heronry island is a rare wildlife gem in the midst of the urban jungle. In the middle of the island stands a large raintree that serves as a living bird nursery. Fortunately, the island remains beyond the reach of park visitors, yet it is close enough for us to enjoy an excellent view of its inhabitants. We observed the birds preening, feeding their chicks, gathering branches, building nests, or simply standing still as if posing for our cameras. At least two bird species were nesting and rearing their young on this island. Many of these inhabitants are fully protected under the Wildlife Conservation Act 2010 (Act 716). On the island, we counted:

• 48 Painted storks, including 32 juveniles

• 90 Black-crowned Night Heron, including 20+ juveniles

•  27 Gray Heron

•  9 Purple Heron

• 1 Eastern Cattle-Egret

Photo: Liu Lai Wah, Hooi Cheen Teng

Beyond the island, the park supports a wonderful diversity of avian life. Other species spotted during our walk included Rock Pigeons, the Pink-necked Green Pigeon, Blue-throated Bee-eater, Large Woodshrike, Asian Glossy Starling, Brown-throated Sunbird, Malaysian Pied Fantail, and Scarlet-backed Flowerpecker, among others.

We also took the opportunity to introduce My Garden Birdwatch (MYGB) to the participants. Count sheets were distributed to assist with bird identification, while telescopes were set up for participants and curious passersby to observe the fine details and vibrant colors of these birds.

Photo: Liu Lai Wah

Later, we departed from the lakeside and walked toward the woods. Word had spread that there were two owl fledglings in the vicinity. Participants scanned the trees in eager anticipation and were thrilled to spot a Barred Eagle-Owl sitting on a branch above in plain view. Nearby, Buffy Fish-Owls were roosting in some banana trees, rewarding us with a clear sighting of two of them.

   Photo: Hooi Cheen Teng

Taman Tasik Permaisuri is a mature urban park that maintains the right ecological balance, allowing wildlife to thrive while successfully serving the public's recreational needs. While dead branches and unkempt brush may look like trash to some, they represent a vital lifeline for wildlife. We hope the heronry island, and the park in general, will continue to serve as a vital sanctuary in our city.

Reported by Chang Wan Sze

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Additional information Read here on Taman Tasik Permaisuri, Kuala Lumpur as an important birdwatching location.