The phenomenal wildlife migration and especially that of 'raptors' (birds of prey) in Peninsular Malaysia is an amazing event. This spectacular aerial show has captivated and enthralled early naturalists and bird enthusiasts alike for hundreds, if not, thousands of years. Raptors have secured a place in the hearts of Malaysian birdwatchers for their beauty, grace and the sheer awesomeness of their aerial displays.
Annually, the raptors make their perilous journey across thousands of miles beginning from their homes in the Northern Hemisphere (Japan, Siberia, Russia, Mongolia, Korea etc) to escape harsh winters to the Southern Hemisphere (around October) and repeat the journey back in spring (around March). Raptors would converge at Tanjung Tuan (Cape Rachado), Melaka to cross over to and from the island of Sumatra, and other Indonesian islands, before continuing the rest of their perilous journey back.
There are no other known locations in Peninsular Malaysia that serve the same function as Tanjung Tuan. The distance between Tanjung Tuan and Sumatra is only 10 nautical miles, making it the narrowest and “safest” point to cross between the two landmasses for a raptor to travel in the Straits of Malacca. It is therefore of utmost importance that this promontory be accorded deserving conservation status to ensure the continuation of this migratory phenomenon.
The realization of the significance and importance of this area resulted in the Malaysian Nature Society (MNS) deciding to initiate and organize the first Raptor Watch in March 2000 to educate and bring to light this wonderful phenomenon and experience to the public.
And it’s back again for the 14th year running! Raptor Watch is now Malaysia's biggest and best eco tourism event and a signature for the Malaysian Nature Society (MNS). This 2-day public event and monitoring event over 5,000 visitors both locals and foreign. Raptor Watch 2013 will be held on March 9th and 10th, 2013 at the grounds of PNB Ilham Resort, Tanjung Tuan, with a range of exciting activities including great music at our GREENaid concert, bird-watching, forest walks, marine walks, the not-to-missed Amazing Raptor Hunt and nature talks, all designed to turn anyone into a nature enthusiast instantly!
We are inviting you to be a part of this unique event that will create a lasting impact and support an important conservation cause to safeguard the unique environment of Tanjung Tuan’s natural heritage while celebrating the amazing aerial display of the majestic migrant raptors. Let’s get WILD!
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