In 1997, a re-survey using satellite technology established
its summit (known as Low's Peak) height at 4,095 metres (13,435 ft) above sea
level, which is some 6 metres (20 ft) less than the previously thought and
hitherto published figure of 4,101 metres (13,455 ft).
Mount Kinabalu includes the Kinabalu montane alpine meadows
ecoregion in the montane grasslands and shrublands biome. The mountain and its
surroundings are among the most important biological sites in the world, with
between 5000 and 6000 species of plants, 326 species of birds, and more than
100 mammalian species identified. Among this rich collection of wildlife are
famous species such as the gigantic Rafflesia plants and the orangutan. Mount
Kinabalu has been accorded UNESCO World Heritage status.
Low's Peak can be climbed quite easily by a person in good
physical condition and there is no need for mountaineering equipment at any
point on the main route. Other peaks along the massif, however, require rock
climbing skills.
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