During a routine patrol in Bukit Baka Bukit Raya National Park (TNBBBR), Central Kalimantan, our Post-Release Monitoring (PRM) team had the rare opportunity to observe a striking bird species, the Red-bearded Bee-eater (Nyctyornis amictus). This sighting highlights once again the rich biodiversity of Kalimantan’s forests, where even routine patrols can bring moments of awe.
The Red-bearded Bee-eater is a medium-sized bird belonging to the bee-eater family (Meropidae). It can be recognized by its vibrant plumage: a predominantly green body, a bright red throat and “beard” that extends down the chest, and a strong, slightly curved bill adapted for catching insects. Its tail is relatively long with central feathers extending beyond the others, a typical feature among bee-eaters. This colourful appearance makes the species one of the most visually striking birds in Southeast Asian forests.
This bird inhabits dense lowland and hill forests, often preferring areas with tall trees and open patches for hunting. The Red-bearded Bee-eater is distributed across parts of Southeast Asia, including the Malay Peninsula, Sumatra, and Borneo. In Kalimantan, it is occasionally encountered in protected forest areas such as TNBBBR, as found by our PRM team at the moment.
According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the Red-bearded Bee-eater is currently listed as Least Concern (LC). While it is not considered globally threatened, its population is affected by habitat loss due to deforestation, land conversion, and logging activities. Protecting forest ecosystems like TNBBBR is therefore crucial for ensuring the survival of this and many other forest-dependent species.
True to its name, the Red-bearded Bee-eater primarily preys on flying insects, especially bees, wasps, and dragonflies. It hunts by perching quietly on a branch before swooping out to snatch insects mid-air, returning to its perch to consume the prey.
For breeding, this species is known to nest in burrows dug into sandy banks or soil embankments. The female lays a small clutch of eggs, and both parents participate in incubation and caring for the young. Their secretive nesting behaviour makes observing their breeding cycle a rare experience in the wild.
The encounter with the Red-bearded Bee-eater in TNBBBR serves as a reminder of the extraordinary biodiversity still thriving in Kalimantan’s forests. Each observation underscores the importance of protecting natural habitats, not only for orangutans but also for lesser-known yet equally fascinating species like this bee-eater.
By safeguarding these ecosystems, we ensure that the forests remain vibrant and full of life, where moments of wonder continue to inspire us.
Text by: Communication Team, BOS Foundation Headquarters, Bogor, West Java
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