Into the Jungle
Historically Borneo was home to vast swathes of rainforest. However, this haven for wildlife is now in rapid decline due to heavy logging by the Malaysian wood industry, in part due to the significant demands for raw materials from industrial countries. Add to this the conversion of forest lands into large-scale agricultural use where half of the annual global tropical timber acquisition comes from Borneo. Palm oil plantations are now widespread and are rapidly encroaching on the last remnants of primary rainforest.
Photographing The Bornean Jungle
Most of the images seen here were taken in and around the Lower-Kinabatangan River in Sabah, Northern Borneo. The region is one of the world’s richest ecosystems. Other than being home to Borneo’s indigenous orangutan and proboscis monkey, the surrounding forest is one of only two known places in the world where 10 species of primates can be found. The nearest hub to access the region is Sandakan where you'll also find the charming, yet touristy Sepilok nature reserve.
At the opposite end of Malaysian Borneo is the delightful Bako national park, where the rest of these images were taken. The amiable and laid-back town of Kuching in Sarawak is the place to head to for access to Bako.
Completely Useless Facts about the Bornean Jungle
- The largest flower in the world can be found in Borneo. The Rafflesia flower has a bloom that can extend more than a metre in diameter and emits a foul odour, attracting flies who in turn pollinate the plant
- The Bintangor tree, found only in Borneo, is believed to contain properties that could help fight the virus that causes AIDS
Have a wemooch elsewhere...
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