Sleeping birds at Kinabatangan, Sabah

At Kinabatangan in Sabah, Lena Chow had a night cruise along the Menanggul tributary where she spotted a few sleeping birds. These diurnal birds were not too bothered by the vessel or the naturalists on board as efforts were made to minimise any disturbance.

The Stork-billed Kingfisher (Halcyon capensis) was obviously aware of the intrusion as its eyes were open (above left). Similarly, the Blue-eared Kingfisher (Alcedo meninting) was somewhat aware of the visitors as its eyes were open although covered with the nictitating membrane (above right). However, the two White-chested Babblers (Trichastoma rostratum) were obviously oblivious of their surroundings. The first, although in is normal perching posture, had its eyes closed (below left). The other bird was comfortably sleeping, with its head tugged under its wing, looking like a furry ball (below right).

Check out our earlier postings on sleeping birds: Blue-winged Pitta, Chestnut-naped Forktail and Common Tailorbird.

All images by Lena Chow.