Birds of Bislig
Asian Glossy Starling
The Asian glossy starling (Aplonis panayensis) is a striking bird species found in Southeast Asia, including the Philippines, Malaysia, and Indonesia. It is known for its glossy, iridescent plumage that varies from green to purple, especially in males, and the distinctive sheen that gives it its "glossy" name. The female is typically a duller brown but still exhibits the glossy sheen. This medium-sized bird thrives in a wide range of habitats, from coastal areas to forests, and is commonly found in urban and agricultural environments. It is highly adaptable and often seen in flocks, especially around human settlements where it can find food sources. The Asian glossy starling feeds on a varied diet of fruits, nectar, seeds, and insects, and it has a particularly strong fondness for figs. Social in nature, these birds are often seen in groups, especially during the breeding season. They build their nests in tree hollows or other protected locations. Despite their beauty, their presence in urban environments sometimes causes them to be regarded as a nuisance due to their tendency to forage around garbage and crops. Nonetheless, their iridescent plumage and lively behavior make them a fascinating species to observe in the wild.
Pink-Bellied Imperial Pigeon
The Pink-bellied imperial pigeon (Ducula rosacea) is a large, beautifully colored bird native to the Philippines, particularly in the forests of Palawan, where it is most commonly found. Known for its striking appearance, this pigeon has a soft pinkish hue on its belly, which contrasts with its otherwise dark plumage. Its body is mainly a mix of pale grey, white, and subtle greens, and the pinkish belly is the standout feature that gives the species its name. The Pink-bellied imperial pigeon inhabits lowland and montane forests, preferring the canopy and tall trees for roosting and nesting. It is a fruit-eating bird and feeds primarily on a variety of fruits, particularly figs, which make up a large part of its diet. The bird's feeding habits often involve foraging high in the trees, and it is known for its slow, graceful flight. Due to its habitat preferences and the pressure from deforestation, the Pink-bellied imperial pigeon is considered vulnerable. Its populations are threatened by the loss of forest habitat, especially as human activity encroaches on its natural environment. Conservation efforts to protect the forests of Palawan are essential to ensure the survival of this stunning pigeon species.
Yellow-Breasted Fruit-Dove
The Yellow-breasted fruit dove (Ptilinopus solitarius) is a stunning bird species found in the Philippines, Known for its vibrant and striking plumage, the male has a bright yellow belly and breast, which stands out against its greenish upperparts and purple-tinged wings. The female is generally more muted in color, with a duller yellow belly and a softer overall appearance. This fruit dove is a forest dweller, typically found in the canopy of lowland and montane forests, where it forages for fruits, seeds, and berries. Its diet is primarily composed of a variety of fruits, including figs, which are essential for its survival. The bird’s slow, gliding flight and gentle demeanor make it an elegant presence in the forest. The Yellow-breasted fruit dove is considered vulnerable due to habitat loss caused by deforestation and illegal logging activities in its range. Conservation efforts are critical to preserving the forests of the Philippines, which provide the necessary environment for this beautiful and ecologically significant bird. The species is an important part of the ecosystem, contributing to seed dispersal and forest regeneration. Its vibrant plumage and quiet presence make it a prized species among birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
Guaiabero
The Guaiabero (also known as the Philippine hanging parrot, Tanygnathus lucionensis) is a small, vibrantly colored parrot species endemic to the Philippines. This bird is known for its striking plumage, which includes a mix of bright greens, blues, and a distinctive red patch on the forehead. Its bright, colorful feathers and small size (usually around 20 cm in length) make it a favorite among bird enthusiasts. The Guaiabero is often found in the lowland and montane forests of the Philippines, including parts of Luzon, Mindanao, and nearby islands. It is a social bird, typically found in pairs or small groups, and it is most active during the daytime. The bird's diet consists primarily of fruits, seeds, and flowers, and it has a particular affinity for guava, which is how it gets its name. These parrots are known for their loud, squawking calls, which they use to communicate with each other, especially when foraging in the canopy. Despite their vibrant presence, they are relatively shy and elusive, often hiding among the dense foliage of the trees. The Guaiabero faces some threats from habitat destruction due to deforestation and the pet trade, but it is currently classified as "Least Concern" on the IUCN Red List. Still, maintaining its natural habitat is crucial for its continued survival, and efforts to protect Philippine forests help safeguard this beautiful and unique bird.
Mindanao Imperial-Pigeon
The Mindanao imperial pigeon (Ducula mindorensis) is a large, majestic bird endemic to the Philippines, specifically found in the forests of Mindanao and the nearby islands. It is part of the pigeon family, and like other imperial pigeons, it is known for its striking, colorful plumage. The Mindanao imperial pigeon has predominantly soft, pale green feathers on its body, with a light grayish head and dark purple or maroon accents on its wings and tail. Its overall appearance is elegant and quite stunning, especially when seen in flight through the forest canopy. This pigeon also has a relatively large, powerful beak, a feature common among larger pigeon species. These pigeons are primarily found in lowland and montane tropical forests, where they feed mostly on fruits, particularly figs, seeds, and berries. As a frugivore, the Mindanao imperial pigeon plays an important role in seed dispersal, which helps maintain the health and regeneration of the forest ecosystem. Due to habitat loss caused by deforestation and logging activities, the Mindanao imperial pigeon is classified as "Near Threatened" by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Protecting its natural habitat in the forests of Mindanao is crucial for its survival. Efforts to conserve the remaining forest areas and combat illegal logging will be important for preserving this beautiful, elusive species.
Philippine Cuckoo-Dove
The Philippine cuckoo-dove (Macropygia tenuirostris) is a medium-sized dove species endemic to the Philippines, found primarily in the forests of Luzon, Mindanao, and other smaller islands in the archipelago. Known for its sleek, elegant appearance, this dove features soft, grayish-brown feathers, with a slightly paler underside. The bird has a long, graceful tail that gives it a distinctive look, as well as a delicate, slender bill, which is typical of doves in the Macropygia genus. As a member of the cuckoo-dove group, the Philippine cuckoo-dove is a forest dweller, typically found in lowland and montane forests, especially in areas with dense tree cover. It is often seen perched high in the canopy or flying silently through the forest. It feeds mainly on fruits, seeds, and berries, foraging in the trees for its food. Its diet includes a variety of forest fruits, making it an important player in seed dispersal and forest regeneration. Despite its secretive and quiet nature, the Philippine cuckoo-dove is prized by birdwatchers due to its elegance and beauty. It is typically solitary or found in pairs, and its flight is characterized by smooth, slow wingbeats, often gliding from one tree to another. While the Philippine cuckoo-dove is not currently classified as endangered, habitat loss due to deforestation poses a threat to its population. Protecting the forests of the Philippines is crucial to preserving this species, which is an important part of the ecosystem.
Philippine Green-Pigeon
Deep within the lush, green forests of the Philippines, the Philippine Green-Pigeon (Treron axillaris) perches quietly in the canopy, nearly invisible to the untrained eye. Its brilliant green plumage, speckled with darker markings, blends effortlessly with the leaves around it, a perfect adaptation to its arboreal lifestyle. For those lucky enough to spot one, the vibrant maroon patch on the breast of the male provides a hint of its presence, a flash of color amid the greenery. The Philippine Green-Pigeon is a creature of the treetops, rarely descending to the ground. From its lofty perch, it surveys its world, hopping gracefully between branches in search of ripe fruits and berries. Its diet sustains not only itself but also the forest, as it scatters seeds far and wide, ensuring the growth of new trees. Quiet and reserved, its soft coos echo faintly through the dense foliage, a gentle reminder of its presence in this serene habitat. Found across many Philippine islands, including Luzon and Mindanao, the Philippine Green-Pigeon thrives in both lowland and montane forests. Yet, its home is under constant threat. As trees fall to deforestation and development, its sanctuary grows smaller, and the harmonious balance it helps maintain becomes more fragile. Despite the challenges, the Philippine Green-Pigeon remains a symbol of resilience and beauty in the wild. Each glimpse of this bird serves as a reminder of the intricate connections between species and the importance of preserving the forests they call home. Hidden among the trees, it continues its quiet work, a guardian of the forest and a testament to the rich biodiversity of the Philippines.
Grey-Throated Sunbird
In the misty forests of the Philippines, the Grey-Throated Sunbird flits through the treetops, its olive plumage shimmering in the sunlight. With its curved bill, it sips nectar from vibrant flowers, scattering pollen as it moves—an essential pollinator in the ecosystem. Its sharp calls echo through the forest as it darts nimbly from branch to branch, a fleeting but vital presence. Though resilient, this tiny bird faces the growing threat of deforestation, reminding us of the delicate beauty of its habitat and the importance of protecting it.
Purple-Throated Sunbird
In the lush forests of the Philippines, the Purple-Throated Sunbird flits gracefully among the vibrant blooms, its iridescent purple throat catching the light with every movement. The male's striking metallic plumage contrasts beautifully with his golden-yellow underparts, making him a dazzling sight as he hovers at a flower, his slender, curved bill reaching for nectar. Quick and agile, he darts from one blossom to the next, his tiny body moving almost like a flash of color against the greenery. In each movement, he plays a vital role, pollinating the flowers he visits, ensuring the continuation of life in the forest. As he moves through the trees, the sunbird is not just a bird of beauty—he is a reminder of the delicate balance of the ecosystem. Despite his vibrant presence, the forest around him is increasingly threatened by deforestation. His future depends on the preservation of the habitats that sustain him, making every flutter of his wings a call to protect the world he inhabits.
Rufous-Lored Kingfisher
In the mangroves and coastal areas of the Philippines, the Rufous-Lored Kingfisher perches quietly, its rufous-orange face and vibrant blue feathers a striking contrast against the greenery. With a sharp, keen eye, it watches the waters below, ready to dive at lightning speed to snatch a fish or crustacean. Its presence is a reminder of the delicate balance of coastal ecosystems. Though not yet endangered, the kingfisher’s habitat faces growing threats from coastal development. As it glides through the waters, this beautiful bird calls for the preservation of the mangroves and rivers that sustain it.
Stork-Billed Kingfisher
Along the rivers and mangroves of Southeast Asia, the Stork-Billed Kingfisher perches with its striking red bill and vibrant blue-green plumage, scanning the water below. With a quick, precise dive, it catches fish and frogs, showcasing its skill as a hunter. The loud, chattering call of this kingfisher echoes through the wetlands, but its habitat is under threat from deforestation. As the kingfisher glides through the air, it serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting these precious ecosystems.
White-Throated Kingfisher
The White-Throated Kingfisher perches gracefully on a branch, its vibrant blue feathers catching the light as it surveys the waters below. With its striking white throat and sharp red bill, it is a master of precision, swooping down to snatch fish and insects with swift accuracy. Its loud, raucous call echoes through the air, signaling its presence before it’s even seen. In the wetlands and coastal areas it calls home, this kingfisher remains a symbol of nature’s beauty and power. But as its habitat faces growing threats, the conservation of these vital ecosystems becomes more important than ever to ensure the survival of this magnificent bird.
Zitting Cisticola
The Zitting Cisticola (Cisticola juncidis) is a small, streaky brown songbird found in grasslands and wetlands. Known for its distinctive "zitting" call, it hunts insects and seeds in tall grasses. With its fast flight and energetic nature, this bird remains hidden in dense vegetation, making it a challenge to spot. Though not endangered, its habitat faces threats from land conversion and wetland loss.
Philippine Yellow-Vented Bulbul
The yellow-vented bulbul (Pycnonotus goiavier), also known as the eastern yellow-vented bulbul, is a common passerine bird native to southeastern Asia, including Indochina and the Philippines. It thrives in a variety of open habitats but avoids deep forests, making it a frequent sight in cultivated areas and urban gardens. This species is notable for its adaptability, often seen in human-modified environments. The yellow-vented bulbul exhibits nomadic behavior, moving from place to place regularly. It constructs a fragile, loose, cup-shaped nest, well-camouflaged yet untidy on the exterior and neatly lined with plant fibers on the inside. The nests are built using materials like grass, leaves, roots, vine stems, and twigs, and can be found in diverse locations, ranging from low bushes to high trees, including garden settings. Breeding typically occurs from February to June, with females laying clutches of 2–5 eggs. This adaptability and proximity to human habitats make the yellow-vented bulbul one of the most recognizable and widespread birds in its range.