Haribon Foundation conducts bird watching tour each year as part of its annual Welcome to the Birds series of activities, where over half a million of migratory birds including globally threatened species visit the country typically from September to March to find temporary shelter, forage for food and rest from the harsh winter months.
One of the recently conducted tours was in Las Piñas- Parañaque Critical Habitat and Ecotourism Area (LPPCHEA) to student groups, members and volunteers who wanted to learn and observe the wide variety of bird species. Just a few hours away from the metropolis, LPPCHEA is a 175-hectare zone which includes a mangrove forest, tidal mudflats, secluded ponds with fringing salt-tolerant vegetation, a coastal lagoon, and estuarine forest which serves as a wall protecting the coastal areas of Las Piñas and Parañaque from devastating storm surges and flooding.
This critical habitat is a lively ecosystem that functions as a breeding ground, nursery and sanctuary for many fish species and other wildlife, and a safe haven for migratory birds including resident and endemic birds like the vulnerable Philippine Duck (Anas luzonica).
Overall, 28 participants eagerly participated in the educational trip that highlighted the sightings of various beautiful bird species. Haribon bird guides gave insightful information about our feathered friend’s peculiar traits and habits. After four hours of observance, the group spotted 13 different bird species.
Haribon’s bird watching activities are a part of Arcadia-BirdLife Arcadia/BirdLife Conservation Partnership that aims to strengthen a dynamic network of high impact self-sustaining conservation non-government organizations (NGOs) who are working effectively with local people, local and national governments and the international community, to better protect key species, sites and habitats in their own countries. It’s also an effective medium for monitoring, researching and conserving globally threatened migratory species Spoonbill Sandpiper, Black-faced Spoonbill and Chinese Crested Tern.
Help raise awareness about the state and importance of migratory birds and their habitats, and welcome them together with your family and friends.
To get to know more about Welcome to the Birds 2015, visit bit.ly/wtodabirds. For inquiries, call: (632)434.4642| 921.12.09 and/or email: [email protected].