Kota Kinabalu City Bird Sanctuary is the only remains of 24 hectares of mangrove forest that once existed extensively along the coastal region of Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia. Previously know as Likas Swamp or Likas Mangrove, the sanctuary came foremost out of 20 wetlands selected by the Sabah Wetlands Inventory Committee in 1986.
This Bird Sanctuary is an important refuge and feeding ground for many species of resident birds, as well as several migratory bird species from Northern Asia. Besides, it is a breeding ground for the marine life which is protected by the Fishery Department of Sabah. Tiny fishes hide under the intertwined mangrove roots from feeding birds.
Apart from providing shelter and food for both resident and migratory species of wildlife, wetlands also prevent salt build-up in surrounding freshwater supplies, stabilize sedimentation, store nutrients and remove toxicants.
This park features a 1.5 km or a 45 mins. boardwalk which brings visitors deep into the mangrove jungle where the land meets the sea. This unique natural landscape give tourists a pleasant experience to enjoy fresh air.
Coming from the city of Kota Kinabalu, travel along the Likas coastal highway until you reach the first roundabout at the Likas Bay. Keep right so that you can make a 3 o’ clock turning in to Jalan Istiadat. Travel straight until you reach a cross junction with traffic lights. Before reaching the junction, you will see Likas Square building and Sabah Trade Center building on your left hand side. Remember to keep your vehicle at right lane and turn right after the junction in to Jalan Bukit Bendera Upper which also leads you to Signal Hill. The Bird Sanctuary site is only the third left junctions after the traffic lights.
Visiting hours Things to bring along