Adi & Mala
From A To Z Through The Lens
Jungles
Borneo's rainforest are rich with life. There are may issues confronting these areas daily. We hope these pictures of creatures small and big, beautiful and not so cute whose lives depend on these areas will inspire generations young and old to act with responsibility. Profits and dollar signs are not the only way.
Deramakot
Our journey to Deramakot was a spontaneous decision and very glad we decided to go. MCO was being relaxed and we had planned a longer stay in Sabah this time for the very purpose of exploring our rich heritage. Unfortunately, Covid -19 had other ideas.
Deramakot is a managed forest by the Sabah Forestry Department. It is large, covering an area of 55,507 hectares comprising Mixed Dipterocarp Forest. The area also has 4 natural salt licks which attracts wild life to the area.
What are salt licks? A salt lick can be natural or artificial. It consists of various mineral slts that animals need to supplement their diets ensuring good health. Herbivore primarily use these lick to get essential nutrients like calcium, sodium, zinc and magnesium that are hard to come across in the jungle. Thus,these areas become a great spot to observe wildlife.
Deramakot is rich in mammals and it is reported that 75% of Sabah mammals can be found here. Thus this area is very important and is a key habitat for 5 globally endangered mammals; Tembadau (or Banting, a species of South East Asian cattle), Orangutan, Borneo Pygmy Elephant, Proboscis Monkey and Clouded Leopard.
We had a very good all-round experience here from nigh safaris to self walks for insects and birds. It is a great place for nature lovers and you never know what you will come across.