Bornean green-magpie (Cissa jefferyi)
A striking endemic species of Borneo’s montane forests, known for its vivid green plumage and secretive behavior.
Context
Observed at Gunung Alab bird hide in Sabah (Borneo), where individuals occasionally approach feeding areas, allowing close-range observation in otherwise dense forest habitat.
Field notes
This species is typically difficult to observe in the wild, remaining hidden in dense vegetation and often detected only through brief movements or calls. In Kinabalu Park where it is most common, photo opportunities remain rare.
At Gunung Alab bird hide, however, some individuals become more visible as they approach feeding sites, offering rare opportunities to study their behavior and appearance at close range.
Encounters with this species are usually brief, and even in a reliable bird hide, the Bornean green magpie doesn’t appear everyday.
Key facts
The Bornean green magpie belongs to the genus Cissa, a group of brightly colored yet elusive forest species.
It is the only species in the genus to display pale cream-colored eyes and can also be recognized by the broader black band across its face.
While green magpies generally prefer highland habitats, the Bornean green magpie is the only one strictly associated with true montane forests, occurring up to the tree line at around 2,700 m asl.
Conservation
The species is listed as Least Concern by IUCN Red List but its status could change rapidly if its habitat becomes degraded.
As it appears to be restricted to true montane forests, it may be particularly vulnerable to environmental changes, including climate-related issues.
More photos from this observation
Other species from Borneo can be found by browsing my Education resources.
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