Wing It

Concerns over avian flu have given the birds of Asia bad press of late. But there’s ample opportunity to enjoy the region’s dazzling array of 1,900 bird species at a safe distance. Asia boasts plenty of sites in urban areas, or within striking distance of major cities, that are home to many species of colorful birds. When you’re done with meetings or can’t face another day of shopping, fit a long lens on your camera and go grab a glimpse of some of these feathered assets.

DELHI
Located 46 km from Delhi, the Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary is a haven for both resident and migratory birds. The best time to visit is September to March, when you can admire wintering European geese and Siberian cranes. The park offers chances to see more than 100 other species, including teals, kingfishers, cranes and herons. Boating is available on Sultanpur Lake and if you don’t feel like making the trek back to town, you’ll find plenty of guesthouses nearby.

HONG KONG
Counted among Hong Kong’s best-kept secrets, the Mai Po Marshes attract many wetland birds, including endangered Dalmatian pelicans, Saunders’ gulls and, in winter, rare black-faced spoonbills. Well-marked trails allow for easy access to much of Mai Po, but guides are available if you want to reach the more remote corners.

SINGAPORE
With more than 600 species on view, Singapore’s Jurong Bird Park offers an almost bewildering choice — but geographically themed aviaries can help you set priorities. There’s a walk-in aviary — the world’s largest — devoted to birds from Africa and South America, and another that specializes in the exotic and endangered birds of Southeast Asia. Raptor enthusiasts can while away a happy afternoon at the Falconry Arena, and kids will love the All Star Bird Show at the park’s amphitheater.

BANGKOK
Situated about 40 km southwest of Bangkok, Khok Kham is home to a great number of shorebirds, drawn by the area’s mud flats as well as the salt pans at the nearby fishing port of Samut Sakhon. Look out for the spoon-billed sandpiper and Nordmann’s greenshank, both classified as globally threatened. A log book at the local Bird Centre contains reports of sightings and current locations of nests.