Tarlac lake records 3,907 birds
The DENR said bird counts help guide habitat management, while activities such as bird-watching and tree planting can encourage public participation in biodiversity conservation.
BIRDWATCHERS join members of the Ecotourism Team of the Tarlac Provincial Tourism Office during an ocular inspection of Canarem Lake Bird Sanctuary in Victoria, Tarlac. The visit aims to identify opportunities for sustainable ecotourism and eco-adventure development at the bird sanctuary.
Photograph courtesy of.Canarem Lake Bird Sanctuary-Victoria Tarlac PH
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources recorded 3,907 birds representing 48 species during a bird-watching activity at Canarem Lake Bird Sanctuary in Tarlac.
The 24 October activity was conducted with the provincial government and the municipal government of Victoria to highlight the lake’s role as a habitat for migratory and resident birds.
The count included 22 migratory species, 21 native species and five endemic species. The wandering whistling-duck was the most numerous, with 2,693 recorded. Participants also counted 269 Philippine ducks, a vulnerable species protected under DENR Administrative Order 2019-09.
The DENR and participants planted 50 fruit-bearing seedlings around the lake. Once mature, the trees are expected to provide food for birds and other wildlife and enhance the habitat.
DENR Central Luzon regional executive director Ralph Pablo said the presence of the Philippine duck and the diversity of bird species underscored the need to conserve the lake as a feeding, resting and sheltering area.
The DENR said bird counts help guide habitat management, while activities such as bird-watching and tree planting can encourage public participation in biodiversity conservation.