Tomohon & Tangkoko Nature Reserve Birding & Wildlife Tour

Tomohon & Tangkoko Nature Reserve Birding & Wildlife Tour

This trip report summarizes a six-day birding and wildlife expedition conducted in North Sulawesi, covering one day in the highland area of Tomohon and five days in Tangkoko Nature Reserve. The main objective of the trip was to observe and document endemic bird and wildlife species in their natural habitats.

Day 1 – Tomohon Highlands

The tour commenced with a full day of birding activities in the highland forests of Tomohon. Birding sessions were conducted early in the morning, focusing on forest edges, secondary forests, and mountain trails. Weather conditions were generally favorable, with cool temperatures and occasional mist.

Several Sulawesi endemic and highland bird species were successfully observed, including Scally Breasted Kingfisher, Sulawesi Scops Owl, Sulawesi Pygmy Woodpecker, Crimson-crowned Flowerpecker, and Sulawesi Thrush. In addition to avifauna, various butterflies and small reptiles were also recorded. The highland habitat provided a contrasting ecosystem to the lowland forests visited later in the trip and contributed valuable species diversity to the overall observation list.

Days 2–6 – Tangkoko Nature Reserve

From Day 2 onward, activities were centered in Tangkoko Nature Reserve. Daily birding sessions were conducted during early morning and late afternoon hours, with additional night walks scheduled to observe nocturnal wildlife.

Throughout the five-day period, the team explored multiple habitat types including lowland rainforest, coastal forest, and mangrove areas. This extended duration allowed sufficient time for repeated visits to key observation points and increased the likelihood of encountering rare and elusive species.

Key endemic bird species recorded during the Tangkoko sessions included Sulawesi Hornbill, Knobbed Hornbill, Lilac-cheeked Kingfisher, Green-backed Kingfisher, Sulawesi Dwarf Kingfisher, Yellow-billed Malkoha, and Black-faced Munia. Mammal observations included Crested Black Macaque, Spectral Tarsier, and Bear Cuscus. Several reptile and amphibian species were also encountered during both daytime and nocturnal surveys.

The extended stay in Tangkoko provided opportunities to observe natural behaviors such as feeding, calling, and social interactions, contributing to a deeper understanding of the species and their habitat.

Overall, the birding and wildlife tour was successful in meeting its objectives. A wide range of Sulawesi endemic species was observed across different ecosystems, highlighting the importance of Tomohon and Tangkoko as key biodiversity areas. The trip emphasized responsible wildlife observation and reinforced the significance of conservation efforts in North Sulawesi.

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