Birdwatching in Baumata (Timor Island)

Baumata
A mixture of old forest trees, teak plantations and scrub behind the public swimming pool of Baumata, 9 km from Oesapa, which is where the main road to El Tari airport leaves the main Soe road (8,5 km from Kupang). Great spot to start birding, only half hour from Kupang with no shortage of transport.

Key species
Exceptionally good for Red-rumped Myzomela, Streak-breasted Meliphagar and two friarbird species. Scrub behind teak plantation also supports White-bellied Bush-chat and Buff-banded Bushbird. Black-banded Flycatcher and Orange-banded Thrush also recorded. Elegant Pitta nests there in wet Season.

Getting there
Catch any bemo from Kupang going to Penfui, and ask for Baumata. From the airport turn off (3.5 km from Oesapa) it is only another 5.5 km uphill.