Discovering the Mangrove Gems of Lembeh Island

Last October, I had the pleasure of guiding Susan Mayer and her group on an unforgettable bird-watching expedition in North Sulawesi. Our destination was the lush mangrove area of Kalinaun (Sampiran), a hidden gem for birders located on Lembeh Island near Bitung.

Kalinaun is one of the most enchanting destinations for birding in North Sulawesi. Because it is part of Lembeh Island, it offers a unique coastal and mangrove ecosystem that attracts rare species you won’t easily find elsewhere. If you are planning a birding trip to Indonesia, I promise that Kalinaun will not disappoint.

During our trek with Susan’s group, we were incredibly lucky to spot several “bucket list” birds, including:

• Black-billed Kingfisher (Pelargopsis melanorhyncha): A stunning resident of the mangroves.

• Ruddy Kingfisher (Halcyon coromanda): Known for its vibrant cinnamon-red plumage.

• Great-billed Heron (Ardea sumatrana): A majestic sighting near the water’s edge.

• White-rumped Cuckooshrike (Coracina leucopygia): A prized Sulawesi endemic species that delighted our group.

Book Your North Sulawesi Birding Guide Are you ready to explore the biodiversity of North Sulawesi? Whether you are looking for endemics in Tangkoko or the mangroves of Lembeh, I am here to lead the way. Don’t forget your camera!

 

Best regards,

Samuel Masedung

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