Endemic Treasures
The over 600 species of birds in the Philippines are priceles gems worth discovering and preserving.
Philippines’ rich biodiversity is definitely one of the country’s most precious treasures. Besides world-class dive sites and pristine beaches, its 7641 islands is also home to some 657 species of birds, according to James McCarthy, co-founder of Wild Bird Club of the Philippines – offering plenty of opportunities for birdwatchers to see the amazing bird species found here. Changes in taxonomy and new discoveries by ornithologists and bird watchers have resulted in an increase in the number of bird species from 604 in 2012 (Birdlife International, 2012). Out of these, 256, or close to 40%, are endemic – found exclusively in the Philippines. ASIAN Geographic highlights some of these endemic species and the best sites that one can see them and a myriad of other bird species.
Among endemic species are kingfishers, bleeding-hearts, hornbillls, parrots and fruit doves. One of the endemic birds in every bird enthusiast’s list is the majestic Philippine eagle – Philippines’ national bird and one the rarest eagles in the world. While it can be seen in Luzon, Samr, Leyte and Mindanao, Mount Kitanglad is often cited as one of the best places to observe the raptor. This is also where you can spot the Blue Capped Wood Kingfisher and the elusive Bukidnon woodcock. Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, identified as one of the seven endemic bird areas of the the Philippines by Birdlife International, is a birdwatcher’s dream with nearly 200 bird species. Here you will find find internationally threatened species like the Palawan peacock pheasant, Philippine cockatoo and Chinese egret as well as all 15 species native to Palawan. Other well-known birdwatching sites in Palawan are Rasa Island (which has been designated as a wildlife sanctuary in 2006) and Lake Manguao, where about 126 bird species (including restricted-range Palawan endemics, restricted-range Philippine endemics and migratory species) have been recorded. Next time you are planning a trip to the Philippines, why not include birdwatching in your itinerary? ag