Monday 12 March 2018

12th March 2018 Ba'kelalan to Kinabatangan River

We were sorry to be leaving the comfort of the Owl House at Ba'kelalan today, Maureen had really looked after us with early breakfasts, packed lunches and even coffees and fine meals, Nicolas our driver was always on time, never complained at any of our requests or keeping him out half the night whilst we went spotlighting and Badau was always enthusiastic, sharp-eyed, never gave-up and great company. We would miss them all but it was time to head to our final destination of our trip being the mighty Kinabatangan River in Sabah where we would be staying with the legendary Romzi at his family's homestay. We walked to the airfield with Maureen where Badau had switched jobs now working checking-in passengers. The MASwings plane arrived on time, we were soon aboard and back to Miri. We then flew with Air Asia to Kota Kinabalu and then Air Asia again to Sandakan where Romzi had arranged a driver and car to meet us to drive us to Sukau where we arrived after dark. Romzi was waiting with his boat and trusty outboard and we were soon off speeding along the river... where we were greeted by a riverside Buffy Fish Owl, that with some careful maneuvering of the boat, allowed close approach.

Eastern Cattle Egret 50
Buffy Fish Owl 1
Asian Glossy Starling 1

The Owl House, Ba'kelalan

Maureen at the Owl House, Ba'kelalan

last time across the bamboo bridge


Brenda, Maureen & Badau walking from the Owl House to the Airfield

Ba'kelalan Airfield


Nicolas's 4x4 awaiting any incoming birders

Badau now running the check-in desk


The pilot looking for Hose's on his approach?!

no guesses who's now running the baggage-handling!




Buffy Fish Owl along the Kinabatangan River