MALAYSIAN WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY

The Coppersmith Barbet (Crimson-breasted barbet) ( Megalaima haemacephala ) is a sparrow-sized bird with a crimson forehead and throat, which is best known for its regular call that is reminiscent of a coppersmith beating sheets of metal. Like other barbets they chisel out a hole inside a tree to build their nest. They are mainly fruit eating but will sometimes take insects, especially winged termites. Throughout their wide range they are found in gardens, groves and sparse woodland. Habitats with trees having dead wood suitable for excavation is important. This species nest and roost in wood cavities. The location of the described nest exemplifies the habitat of this Barbet species: located in the shadow of Gleneagles Hospital, down a busy lane with terraced shop-houses and in a dead limb of a partially decaying Laegerstromia floribunda tree. The species is solitary, or in pairs, or small groups: larger parties occasionally congregate on abundantly frui...

This is a photographic tribute to two very special birds. In this case a pair of White-throated Kingfishers. This species is quite abundant in Malaysia and neighbouring countries but to get in a good photographic situation with them is quite difficult. At the Penanti Motocross track that I have frequented for 4 seasons there are at least three pairs that have staked out their own domain. My couple base themselves in the central tree. The first year I was there the female partner had several toes missing and therefore was easily identifiable. The following year the male had got himself a new 'bimbo'.......and she was, and still is really beautiful. They raised a brood of 4 chicks in the 2013 season. They were unsuccessful in 2014, I suspect because they were constantly harassed by the Red-wattled Lapwings.....a species that lays eggs in the open where the kingfishers hunt for food. I am pleased to say that this year another brood has been successfully raised. What is great abou...