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The Philippines (Mt. Katanglad, Bohol, Quezon),
31st March 1996 to 13th April 1996Itinerary : Richard Fairbank, Nick Preston and Barry Stiddolph had arranged the following trip and kindly asked if we would like to join them :
31st March 1996 : Spent an hour between flights in Singapore. Then onto a hot and humid Manila Airport chartering a taxi to a hotel. Dropped off bags and chartered another taxi to the gates of the American Cemetery spending the rest of the afternoon birding the Cemetery.
1st April 1996 : Chartered a passing Jeepney to the domestic airport for a 5a.m. flight to Cagayan de Oro (Mindanao) where we hired a taxi to the base of Mt. Katanglad. Spent a couple of hours waiting around trying to arrange a guide to take us up the mountain. Finally arranged to go up the first 7km on the back of motorbikes complete with our bags. Quite an experience as the riders raced between themselves ! Climbed the final 3km to the resthouse being hard work in the early afternoon heat. Spent rest of afternoon in forest patches above the resthouse.
2nd April 1996 : All day Mt. Katanglad - Eagle Viewpoint and Forest Patches.
3rd April 1996 : All day Mt. Katanglad - Forest Patches then up above the Upper Viewpoint.
4th April 1996 : All day Mt. Katanglad - Forest on far side of Valley then Forest Patches.
5th April 1996 : Until 3.00 p.m. at Mt. Katanglad and then walked 3km down mountain when we hitched a lift with a "Department for Tourism" bus back to Cagayan de Oro where we stayed the night in a hotel.
6th April 1996 : Unfortunately the early morning flight to Cebu was cancelled due to poor weather. We were left with no alternative but to catch the midday ferry direct to Bohol which took six hours. Spent the night sleeping on the floor in a grim hotel at the port.
7th April 1996 : Caught bus to Bilar and then a motorcycle rickshaw out to Logarita Forest Station. Spent the rest of the day in the forest there.
8th - 10th April 1996 : All days spent birding the trails at Logarita Forest Station.
11th April 1996 : Early morning at Logarita and then back to Bilar - nine in a small jeep and the bags tied to the roof. Caught a bus to Tagbilaran and flight to Manila chartering a taxi to Lucena.
12th April 1996 : All day Quezon National Park.
13th April 1996 : Until mid-afternoon in Quezon National Park with an hour at Pagbilo Fish Ponds before catching a bus back to Manila.
14th April 1996 : Early morning flight to Singapore and on to London.
Systematic List: (only includes species recorded by DC/JFC)
Cinnamon Bittern - Ixobrychus cinnamomeus
A single bird was seen well in flight at the Pagbilo Fish Ponds on the 13th.
Little Green Heron - Butorides striatus
Two were seen perched on the banks of the Pagbilo Fish Ponds on the 13th.
Egret sp. - Egretta sp.
A flock of around 25 were seen at distance from Logarita on the 10th.
Little Egret - Egretta garzetta
Around 200 were seen at the Pagbilo Fish Ponds on the 13th.
Great White Heron - Casmerodius albus
Around 60 were seen at the Pagbilo Fish Ponds on the 13th.
Purple Heron - Ardea purpurea
At least 2 were seen at the Pagbilo Fish Ponds on the 13th.
Osprey - Pandion haliactus
Two were seen over the Pagbilo Fish Ponds on the 13th.
Barred Honey Buzzard - Pernis celebensis
Two were seen several times soaring over the forest from the "Eagle Viewpoint"
at Mt. Katanglad on the 2nd. One bird appeared to be a classic adult with the
second presumably a juvenile as it lacked the barred underparts.
Asiatic Honey Buzzard - Pernis plilorhynchus
Surprisingly only a single bird seen, soaring over the forest at Quezon on the
12th.
Brahminy Kite - Haliastus indus
Singles were seen from the "Eagle Viewpoint" at Mt. Katanglad on the
5th, soaring over the paddies at Logarita on the 9th, and at Pagbilo
Fish Ponds on the 13th. A single captive bird was seen in the Scout Camp Clearing
at Logarita.
White-bellied Sea Eagle - Haliastus leucogaster
A superb adult was watched hunting over the Pagbilo Fish Ponds on the 13th.
Extremely impressive especially when watched making four unsuccessful attempts
to take a Great White Egret.
PHILIPPINE SERPENT EAGLE - Spilornis holospilus
Singles were seen at Mt. Katanglad on the 2nd and 3rd, and at Quezon
on the 12th.
Pied Harrier - Circus melanoleucos
A superb male was watched quartering the lower slopes of Mt. Katanglad just
below where the stream crosses the track, on the walk down, during the afternoon
of the 5th.
Crested Goshawk - Accipiter trivigatus
A single bird allowed scope views - both in flight and perched - around the
Scout Camp Clearing during the early morning at Logarita, Bohol on the 11th.
With reference to Brooks et al. (1995) it appears that this is only the fourth
record from Logarita.
Chinese Goshawk - Accipiter solensis
Good numbers of this species with several impressive migrant flocks as follows:
a flock of 35 over Mt. Katanglad near the "Eagle Viewpoint" on the
2nd with a single bird the next day; a flock of 18 over Logarita, Bohol on the
10th - probably representing the highest number ever recorded from
this site; at least 8 birds seen hunting in the forest at Quezon on the 12th
and an estimated 70 there on the 13th, including an impressive flock
of 58. An individual was seen to catch a small bird at Quezon and possibly the
high numbers of this species being present in the area accounted for the apparent
scarcity of small birds seen at this site! With reference to Brooks et al. the
observations on Bohol are of the highest number recorded at that site.
Grey-faced Buzzard - Butastur indicus
Only a single bird seen from the resthouse at Mt. Katanglad, late in the afternoon
of the 4th.
PHILIPPINE MONKEY-EATING EAGLE - Pithecphaga jefferyi
The pair at Mt. Katanglad put on a fine show for us on the 2nd being first seen
flying together over the forest at the far side of the valley from the "Eagle
Viewpoint", then a single bird flying down the valley carrying a "Giant
Red Squirrel" perching three times on it's approach to the nest, and then
finally a bird flying virtually over our heads at a range down to 200yards before
perching facing towards us and preening whilst fully erecting its crest. Quite
magnificent. This species status is listed as Critical by Collar et al. (1994)
who estimate it's population at 200 in the mid 1980s. According to posters
in the Philippines the last attempted census in the early 1990's revealed only
31 left in the wild. Sadly, at Mt. Katanglad, the locals are slashing and burning
the forest at a rapid rate and this was all to obvious while we were present,
with the forest even being cleared in the valley where the nest site is currently
located. Unfortunately the future therefore looks bleak for what must be one
of the most impressive birds in the world.
PHILIPPINE HAWK EAGLE - Spizaetus philippensis
A pair were seen well as they soared over the forest just below the "Upper
Eagle Viewpoint" on Mt. Katanglad on the 3rd. This species is listed as
Vulnerable by Collar et al. (1994) with the threat being attributed to habitat
loss and perhaps hunting.
PHILIPPINE FALCONET - Microhierax erythrogonys
We thought we were going to be unlucky with this species as it was not until
our last afternoon on the 13th when singles were watched hunting
from high perches along the Ridge Trail and along the road just above the "Buena
Vista Viewpoint" at Quezon. As with all Falconets they were extremely smart.
Peregrine - Falco peregrinus
Singles were seen at the American Cemetery on the 31st, Mt. Katanglad on the
2nd, and at the Pagbilo Fish Ponds on the 13th.
(Red Junglefowl - Gallus gallus)
JFC heard a single bird at Mt. Katanglad on the 5th.
Banded Rail - Rallus philippensis
A superb individual walked towards us along one of the banks separating the
fish ponds at Pagbilo on the 13th. Seemingly quite unconcerned despite being
out in the open during the middle of the afternoon.
Barred Rail - Rallus torquatus
One of the highlights of the trip were 3 walking around on the well kept lawns
at the American Cemetery on the 31st allowing good views to be obtained
of this striking species during our first afternoon of the trip. A good start.
White-browed Crake - Porzana cinerea
A single bird was seen in flight over the first fish pond at Pagbilo on the
13th.
(Bush Hen - Amaurornis oliveus)
A couple were heard, but sadly not seen, at Mt. Katanglad on the 2nd.
White-breasted Waterhen - Amaurornis phoenicurus
A single bird was seen in a stream dividing the paddies whilst on the motorcycle
rickshaw-ride out to Logarita, Bohol on the 7th,.
Whimbrel - Numensis phaeopus
A party of around 12 were seen distantly at Pagbilo Fish Ponds on the 13th.
Wood Sandpiper - Tringa glareola
Around 6 were seen at the Pagbilo Fish Ponds on the 13th.
Common Sandpiper - Tringa hypoleucos
Around 6 were seen at the Pagbilo Fish Ponds on the 13th.
Snipe sp. - Gallinago sp.
A single bird was flushed at the American Cemetery on the 31st calling a short
"bzzz".
Red-necked Phalarope - Phalaropus lobatus
A party of 6 in winter plumage were seen flying alongside the ferry just off
Cagayan de Oro, Mindanao on the 6th.
Whiskered Tern - Childonias hybrida
Around 12 were seen at the Pagbilo Fish Ponds on the 13th.
Gull-billed Tern - Gelochelidon nilotica
Two were seen at the Pagbilo Fish Ponds on the 13th.
Pompadour Green Pigeon - Treron pompadora
A single bird was seen from the Scout Camp Clearing at Logarita, Bohol on the
afternoon of the 8th and 8 were seen perching on high dead snags around the
same clearing during the early morning of the 11th. With reference to Brooks
et al. (1995) this species is only recorded sporadically at Logarita.
WHITE-EARED BROWN DOVE - Phapitreron leucotis
A single bird was seen perched in the patch of forest by the turnoff from the
main track to the "Eagle Viewpoint" at Mt. Katanglad on the 3rd.
At Logarita, Bohol, 3 were seen on the 7th, 1 on the 8th and 1 on the 9th.
YELLOW-BREASTED FRUIT DOVE - Ptilnopus occipitalis
JFC saw 2 perched in a fruiting tree on his second attempt to see Hombron's
Wood Kingfisher at Mt. Katanglad on the 5th. Unfortunately they were the only
birds seen during the trip.
PHILIPPINE CUCKOO DOVE - Macropygia tenuirostris
At Mt. Katanglad 1 was seen on the 2nd, 4 on the 3rd, 1 on the 4th and 1 on
the 5th. At Logarita 4 were seen on the 8th and 2 on the 11th. This
species has been split from Reddish Cuckoo-Dove M. phasianella by Sibley and
Monroe (Brooks et al. (1995)).
Spotted Dove - Streptopelia chinensis
Pairs were seen on the walk down from Mt. Katanglad on the 5th and at the Pagbilo
Fish Ponds on the 13th.
Red Turtle Dove - Streptopelia tranquebarica
Around 10 were seen in the American Cemetery on the 31st.
Peaceful Dove - Geopelia striata
Around 20 were seen in the American Cemetery on the 31st.
Emerald Dove - Chalcophaps indica
A single bird was seen along the edge of the road at Quezon on the 12th.
PHILIPPINE COCKATOO - Kakatoe haematuropygia
With the current status of this species it was hoped-for but not really expected.
We were therefore pleased to see a pair twice in flight along the first 100
yards of the Swimming Pool Trail at Logarita, Bohol on the 10th.
Unexpectedly, they were mainly silent and thus not drawing attention to themselves.
This species is listed as Critical by Collar et al. (1994) with intensive trapping
('the young of every known accessible nest are taken for the pet trade' : Dickinson
et al. (1991)) combined with the destruction of its lowland forest habitat being
to blame. They refer to only 12 as surviving on Bohol with a world population
of between 1000 and 4000 the majority being on Palawan (800 - 3000). With reference
to Brooks et al. (1995) it appears that this may represent only the fourth record
from Logarita.
BLUE-CROWNED RACQUET-TAIL PARROT - Prioniturus discurus
A single bird was seen in flight high over the forest at the Scout Camp Clearing
at Logarita, Bohol in the early morning of the 9th. Unfortunately the views
were therefore limited to silhouette only, although still impressive, as the
racquets were clearly visible. A single bird was seen perched high on dead branches,
and then in flight, along the road at Quezon near the start of the Ridge Trail
at about midday on our last day the 13th. This species is listed as Near-threatened
by Collar et al. (1994).
MINDANAO MONTANE RACQUET-TAIL PARROT - Prioniturus
waterstradti
A single bird flew closely past us at eye level at the "Upper Eagle Watchpoint"
at Mt. Katanglad in the late afternoon of the 9th affording
good views. This species is listed as Vulnerable by Collar et al. (1994) who
describe this species as 'certainly local and uncommon and as suffering from
habitat destruction being known from as possibly as few as seven mountains'.
GUAIABERO - Bolbopsittacus lunulatus
Surprisingly only a single bird was seen - perched in the canopy along the Ridge
Trail at Quezon on the 12th.
PHILIPPINE HANGING PARROT - Loriculus philippensis
At Mt. Katanglad 2 were seen on the 1st, 4 on the 2nd and 2 on the 5th and
at Quezon 4 were seen on the 12th and 2 the next day. As is typical with this
family, most encounters involved pairs dashing overhead calling loudly. A single
captive bird was observed at the Scout Camp Clearing at Logarita where with
reference to Brooks et al. (1995) there were two in July 1994.
PHILIPPINE HAWK CUCKOO - Cuculus pectoralis
A single bird was seen poorly in response to tape playback just below the "Upper
Eagle Viewpoint" at Mt. Katanglad on the 3rd and another was seen perched
for some time on a dead snag watched from the Scout Camp Clearing at Logarita,
Bohol on the 11th. Other birds were heard (a typical loud high-pitched
whistle which becomes increasingly manic) at both the sites mentioned.
Oriental Cuckoo - Cuculus saturatus
A single bird was seen perched in the canopy along the Ridge Trail at Quezon
on the 12th.
Plaintive Cuckoo - Cacomantis merulinus
A single immature was seen near the Scout Camp Clearing at Logarita, Bohol on
the 7th.
Rusty-breasted Cuckoo - Cacomantis sepulcralis
A superbly-plumaged species which in response to tape playback allows prolonged
views. Singles were seen well at Mt. Katanglad on both the 3rd and 5th with
the latter being seen in the patch of forest at the start of the track at the
edge of the resthouse clearing.
PHILIPPINE COUCAL - Centropus viridis
A single bird was seen in the loose company of a Black-faced Coucal along the
Valley Trail at Logarita, Bohol on the 8th and 2 were seen along the road at
Quezon on the 13th, including one drying itself with wings outstretched,
on a dead snag next to the road.
BLACK-FACED COUCAL - Centropus melanops
Singles of this smart species were seen well at Logarita, Bohol, in the vicinity
of the start of the Valley Trail on both the 8th and 9th.
RUFOUS COUCAL - Centropus unirufus
A single bird kept low in the foliage along the Ridge Trail at Quezon on the
13th. This species is listed as Near-threatened by Collar et al. (1994).
Lesser Coucal - Centropus bengalensis
Birds, generally seen poorly, were recorded on most days at Mt. Katanglad.
(LESSER EAGLE OWL - Mimizuku gurneyi)
Sadly not seen and only being heard on the odd occasion at Mt. Katanglad. This
species is listed as Endangered by Collar et al. (1994), who state that it is
'suffering from the extensive habitat clearance taking place within its range'.
PHILIPPINE HAWK OWL - Ninox philippensis
A single bird was tape-lured and spotlighted at the back of the resthouse at
Logarita, Bohol, before dawn on the 10th - our only Owl of the trip.
PHILIPPINE FROGMOUTH - Brachostomus septimus
After a couple of hours of searching, we were finally rewarded with prolonged
views of a superb individual in the patch of forest at the start of the track
just beyond the resthouse at Mt. Katanglad on the 3rd, with a couple
of others being heard in the vicinity. Also, this species was heard calling
more vociferously at Logarita, Bohol, although we did not make a serious effort
to see one. This species has to rank as one of the highlights of the trip.
Great Eared Nightjar - Eurostopodus macrotis
At. Mt. Katanglad poor views were obtained after dusk, with 1 being seen on
the 1st and 3 on the 3rd, in the vicinity of the resthouse. However,
the birds flew much earlier at Logarita, Bohol, and therefore afforded far superior
views with 10 being seen on the 7th, and singles on both the 8th
and 9th, all in the vicinity of the resthouse.
PHILIPPINE NIGHTJAR - Caprimulgus manillensis
Seen at Mt. Katanglad with singles seen near the resthouse on the 1st, 2nd and
3rd (including 1 which was spotlighted sat on a dead branch). Another 2 were
flushed along the track near a cliff face above the "Upper Eagle Viewpoint"
on the 3rd.
PHILIPPINE GREY SWIFTLET - Collocalia mearnsi
A submontane species which was only seen at Mt. Katanglad where 10 were seen
on both the 3rd and the 5th, and 5 were seen on the 4th. Seen from
the "Eagle Viewpoint" but also low over the fields late in the afternoon.
Uniform Swiftlet - Collocalia vanikorensis
This lowland species was seen at Logarita, Bohol, generally seen feeding low
over the paddies with an estimated 20 being seen on all days from the 7th to
the 10th, and 6 were seen feeding low over the Pagbilo Fish Ponds
on the 13th. Only described as likely to occur on Bohol (Chantler (1995)) although
stated as generally common to abundant throughout.
PYGMY SWIFTLET - Collocalia troglodytes
A distinctive diminutive species with an obvious narrow band across the rump
and a pale belly. Up to 6 were recorded daily at Logarita, Bohol, seemingly
ever- present in the Scout Camp Clearing, and up to 10 seen feeding low over
the road on both days at Quezon. Described as fairly common to common in the
foothills. (Chantler ((1995)).
White-bellied Swiftlet - Collocalia esculenta
Only seen at Mt. Katanglad where fairly common, with 20 seen on the 2nd, 50
on the 3rd and 10 on the 4th. Described as often abundant in suitable
areas (Chantler (1995)).
Whiskered Treeswift - Hemiprocne comata
Seen at Mt. Katanglad, often being present in the area immediately behind the
"Eagle Viewpoint", with 2 seen on the 2nd, and 1 on both the 3rd and
4th. At Logarita, Bohol a single bird was seen around the Scout Camp Clearing
on the 8th, 9th and 11th. Described as occurring locally on most major islands
in the Philippines (Chantler (1995)).
PHILIPPINE TROGON - Harpactes ardens
Seen at Logarita, Bohol, with pairs being encountered along the Swimming Pool
Trail on the 8th, the Valley Trail on the 9th, and near the Scout Camp Clearing
on the 10th, with a particularly fine adult male being seen along the Swimming
Pool Trail.
Common Kingfisher - Alcedo atthis
A single bird was seen at the Pagbilo Fish Ponds on the 13th.
INDIGO-BANDED KINGFISHER - Ceyx cyanopectus
A superb individual (complete with double breast-band) was seen along the river
just downstream of where it passes under the road at the start of Quezon National
Park on both the 12th and 13th. This species is listed as Near-threatened by
Collar et al. (1994).
White-collared Kingfisher - Halcyon chloris
Seen throughout the trip with 2 seen in the American Cemetery on the 31st, 1
on the walk down from Mt. Katanglad on the 5th, 2 at Logarita, Bohol along the
edge of the paddies on the 7th and a single bird at the Pagbilo Fish Ponds on
the 13th.
Ruddy Kingfisher - Halcyon coromanda
A superb individual was seen along the main track just beyond the resthouse
at Logarita, Bohol on the 8th, 9th and 10th, affording some superb
views and proving to be one of the highlights of the trip. With reference to
Brooks et al. (1995) it appears that this is only the fourth record from Logarita.
Described as uncommon or rare almost everywhere in its range (Fry (1992)).
White-throated Kingfisher - Halcyon smyrnensis
A single individual was seen on the walk up to Mt. Katanglad on the 1st.
Seen on both days at Quezon, with 1 seen opposite start of the Ridge Trail on
the 12th and 1 in the same area as the Indigo Banded Kingfisher on both days.
Interestingly, the form seen at Quezon, lacks the 'typical' white breast of
the species.
WINCHELL'S KINGFISHER - Halcyon winchelli
During the early morning of the 10th a single individual reacted
to a tape of the species. It appeared three quarters of the way up a tall tree
along the Valley Trail at Logarita, Bohol, before flying-off up the valley.
It only called the once in response to the tape. This species is listed as Endangered
by Collar et al. (1994) who describe it as 'may now be highly threatened following
habitat destruction' although listing Logarita as apparently being a stronghold.
With reference to Brooks et al. (1995) single birds have been recorded at Logarita
by nine observers.
SPOTTED WOOD KINGFISHER - Halcyon lindsayi
Another success of the tape machine, with a pair reacting and watched flying
and perching around us, along the Ridge Trail at Quezon during the early morning
of the 13th. The male was significantly brighter than the female/immature. This
species is listed as Near-threatened by Collar et al. (1994). Described as 'probably
widespread before so much forest was cut' (Fry (1992)).
HOMBRON' S WOOD KINGFISHER - Halcyon hombroni
DC only managed brief flight views of a single bird in the forest on the far
side of the valley (where the Philippine Eagle nest is situated) on the 4th,
but JFC done rather better in the same area the next day, obtaining views of
a bird perched calling being watched for 2 minutes. This species is listed as
Vulnerable by Collar et al. (1994) who describe it 'as appearing very rare with
recent records from only a few sites and probably suffering from extensive habitat
destruction occurring in primary montane forest on Mindanao'.
Bee Eater sp. - Merops sp.
A distant bird was seen briefly in dispute with a Chinese Goshawk, at Quezon
on the 13th, but evaded identification, and hopefully, the Goshawk
!
MINDANAO TARICTIC HORNBILL - Penelopides affinis
A superb individual was watched calling from an exposed dead tree on the edge
of a patch of forest along the main track about a mile above the resthouse at
Mt. Katanglad during the late afternoon of the 3rd. JFC obtained
brief views of another in the forest near the Hombron's Wood Kingfisher site
on the 5th. Seen fairly easily at Logarita, Bohol, especially around the Scout
Camp Clearing with 1 seen on the 7th, 6 on the 8th, 2 on the 9th and 5 on the
11th. This species is listed as Near-threatened by Collar et al. (1994). The
taxon on Bohol has been split from P. affinis by Sibley and Monroe (1990) and
thus treated as endemic to the Eastern Visayas as P. samarensis. However, we
have followed Kemp (1995) in treating samarensis as a subspecies.
LUZON TARICTIC HORNBILL - Penelopides manillae
This species was encountered both days spent along the Ridge Trail at Quezon
with 5 seen on the 12th and 2 seen the following day. This species is listed
as Near- threatened by Collar et al. (1994). We have followed Kemp (1995) in
treating this as a distinct species from Mindanao Tarictic Hornbill.
RUFOUS HORNBILL - Buceros hydrcorax
A simply magnificent species with a family party of 3 (including a superb adult
male) seen from the "Buena Vista Watchpoint" at Quezon on both days
spent there. Some excellent close flight views were obtained on the second day.
This species is listed as Near-threatened by Collar et al. (1994). Described
as 'absent from many areas of its former range as habitat is now reduced' (Kemp
1995).
Coppersmith Barbet - Megalaima haemacephala
A single individual was seen perched on the top of some dead branches of a tall
tree, at some distance, from the road at Quezon on the 12th.
SOOTY WOODPECKER - Mulleripicus funebris
An exceptional Woodpecker proving to be one of the highlights of the trip with
a superb individual perched motionless for some time along the Ridge Trail at
Quezon on the 12th. Described as uncommon to locally numerous (Winkler (1995)).
White-bellied Black Woodpecker - Dryocopus javensis
Another superb species, with a single individual seen in a patch of remnant
forest about a mile above the resthouse at Mt. Katanglad on the 3rd,
and singles seen at Logarita, Bohol, at the Scout Camp Clearing on the 8th,
along the track near the resthouse on the 9th and one attending a nest hole
near the start of the Swimming Pool Trail 10th. Described as everywhere local
and uncommon (Winkler (1995)).
PHILIPPINE PYGMY WOODPECKER - Dendrocopos maculatus
Encountered on all of our first five days but not again, with 1 at the American
Cemetery on the 31st, 1 at Mt. Katanglad on the 1st and 2nd,
with 2 seen there on the 3rd and 4 on the 4th. Described as common being the
most abundant Woodpecker of the Philippines (Winkler (1995)).
Greater Goldenback - Chrysocolaptes lucidus
A single individual was seen at Mt. Katanglad in a remnant patch of forest above
the resthouse on the 3rd, followed by 4 at Logarita, Bohol on the
7th, 3 on the 8th and 1 the following day. Described as common or locally common
throughout much of its range (Winkler (1995)).
WATTLED BROADBILL - Eurylaimus steeri
One of the spectacular species of the trip with good views of a party of 4 seen
from the road just below the experimental plantation near the Scout Camp Clearing
at Logarita, Bohol on the evening of the 8th. They were watched in the late
evening eventually being successfully spotlighted at dusk ! The sound of the
wings were noticeable when in flight. This species is listed as Vulnerable by
Collar et al. (1994) who describe its status 'as uncommon and local now being
considered as a rare bird having suffered from the extensive and continuing
lowland deforestation'. With reference to Brooks et al. (1995) the birds on
Bohol belong to the Eastern Visayas race E.s.samarensis which is very different
from the Mindanao races and may be a good species (Lambert and Woodcock in prep.).
Red-bellied Pitta - Pitta erythrogaster
A superb individual was tape lured into view and then performed brilliantly
for around half an hour along the Valley Trail at Logarita , Bohol on the 9th.
Another was heard along the Ridge Trail at Quezon on the 12th delivering a somewhat
haunting call.
STEERE'S PITTA - Pitta steerii
A superb pair were taped into view and then performed superbly always keeping
to the lower branches of the trees along the left hand trail leading off the
Scout Camp Clearing at Logarita, Bohol on the 7th. Seen within two
hours of our arrival ! Only sporadic calling in the evenings was heard during
the rest of our stay at Logarita showing how fortunate we were on our first
morning. This species is listed as Vulnerable by Collar et al. (1994) with the
extensive and continuing clearance of lowland forest being the cause for concern.
Swallow - Hirundo rustica
Fairly common with up to 20 seen on four dates at Mt. Katanglad, up to 6 seen
on two dates at Logarita, Bohol and 2 seen at Pagbilo Fish Ponds on the 13th.
Pacific Swallow - Hirundo tahitica
On the journey between Cagayan de Oro and Mt. Katanglad 6 were seen on the 1st
and 1 on the 5th, with 2 being seen feeding over the paddies at Logarita,
Bohol on the 10th and 6 at Pagbilo Fish Ponds on the 13th.
Striated Swallow - Hirundo striolata
Only seen at a river crossing in a deep gorge between Cagayan de Oro and Mt.
Katanglad, with 6 seen collecting nest-building material on the 1st,
and 10 seen on the return journey on the 5th.
Bar-bellied Cuckoo Shrike - Coracina striata
A party of 3 were seen at the Scout Camp Clearing at Logarita, Bohol on the
11th.
BLACKISH CUCKOO SHRIKE - Coracina coerulescens
Seen along the road at Quezon, with 2 seen near the entrance on the 12th,
2 in the same area the next day, and 3 near the start of the Ridge Trail. This
species is listed as Near-threatened by Collar et al. (1994).
MCGREGOR'S CUCKOO SHRIKE - Coracina mcgregori
A single individual of this attractive species was seen on both the 4th and
5th on the steep climb up the far side of the valley near to where
the "Eagle Nest" is situated
on the way up to the Hombron's Wood Kingfisher site at Mt. Katanglad. Both times seen in association with a bird flock keeping to the mid-canopy. This species is listed as Vulnerable by Collar et al. (1994) who state that it has 'only recently been reported at two sites (and from only four ever)' and they state that 'it occurs at an altitude at which forest is now very seriously threatened' which ties in with our observation as it was unfortunately within 150 yards of the most recently cleared area in the valley bottom.
Pied Triller - Lalage nigra
Around 4 were seen at the American Cemetery on the 31st, followed
by 2 at the base of Mt. Katanglad on the 1st, and singles at Mt.
Katanglad on the 2nd and 5th.
Scarlet Minivet - Pericrocotus flammeus
A pair were seen from the Scout Camp Clearing at Logarita, Bohol, during the
early morning of the 9th. With reference to Brooks et al. (1995) this represents
only the sixth record from Logarita.
BALICASSIAO - Dicrurus balicassius
Seen frequently at Quezon with an estimated 10 on the 12th and 15 the next day.
Probably the most frequently seen species at this site.
Spangled Drongo - Dicrurus bracteatus
A single bird was seen at Mt. Katanglad on the 3rd and then frequently at Logarita,
Bohol, with up to 15 recorded daily.
PHILIPPINE ORIOLE - Oriolus steeri
Seen at Logarita, Bohol with a single bird seen along the right-hand trail leading
from the Scout Camp Clearing on the 7th and a single bird perched for some time
on a dead branch watched from the Scout Camp Clearing during the early morning
of the 11th.
Black-naped Oriole - Oriolus chinensis
A single bird was seen in the American Cemetery on the 31st and up to 4 were
seen daily at Logarita, Bohol.
Large-billed Crow - Corvus macrorhynchos
Around 4 were seen at the Pagbilo Fish Ponds on the 13th. Described as 'everywhere
a common if not abundant bird' (Madge (1994)).
ELEGANT TIT - Parus elegans
Often accompanying bird flocks, with 1 seen at Mt. Katanglad on the 1st, 8 on
the 3rd and 3 on the 5th, and 2 seen at Quezon along the road on
the 12th. Described as 'fairly common' (Harrap (1996)).
SULPHUR-BILLED NUTHATCH - Sitta oenochlamys
This attractive species was seen at Mt. Katanglad with 2 seen on the 1st, singles
on the 2nd and 3rd, and 4 on both the 4th and 5th. Often treated as conspecific
with Velvet -fronted Nuthatch (Harrap (1996)).
STRIPE-HEADED RHABDORNIS - Rhabdornis mysticalis
This superb species was seen at Quezon mainly along the road, with 2 seen on
the 12th and 3 the next day, proving far superior in both plumage and habits
in comparison with the next species.
PLAIN HEADED RHABDORNIS - Rhabdornis inornatus
Only seen on the higher areas at Mt. Katanglad where 10 were seen on the 3rd,
with the majority being seen around the "Upper Eagle Viewpoint" where
birds were on view for much of the time.
STREAKED GROUND BABBLER - Ptilocichia mindanensis
Our first 'excellent species' seen at Logarita, Bohol, where a single bird responded
to tape, being seen extremely well for around a quarter of an hour in the slight
ravine that runs parallel to the road running up to the Scout Camp Clearing
during the morning of the 7th. Followed by good views of a pair and
then later possibly one of the same pair, around 100 yards from the start of
the Valley Trail during the morning of the 10th. This species was strictly terrestrial
although perhaps not as skulking as expected, often foraging in the open and
apparently not concerned by our presence and often making a considerable noise
in the leaf litter. This species is listed as Near-threatened by Collar (1994).
Brooks et al. (1995) refer to this species as being 'not uncommon but difficult
to see'.
BLACK-CROWNED TREE-BABBLER - Stachyris nigricapitata
A single bird was seen in association with a bird flock along the right-hand
trail leading from the Scout Camp Clearing on the 7th and a pair were seen constructing
a nest directly over the Valley Trail on the 9th, both at Logarita,
Bohol.
BROWN TIT BABBLER - Macronous striaticeps
A unobtrusive, although often noisy species, with singles seen at Mt. Katanglad
on the 1st and 3rd and 6 seen on the 5th (in the patch of forest along the
main track just above the resthouse) and then recorded at Logarita, Bohol with
singles on the 7th and 9th, 2 on the 8th, and 4 on the
10th.
WATTLED BULBUL - Pycnonotus urostictus
DC saw a single bird from the road at Quezon on the 12th.
Yellow-vented Bulbul - Pycnonotus goiavier
Around 15 were seen in the American Cemetery on the 31st and up to 15 were seen
daily at Mt. Katanglad.
PHILIPPINE BULBUL - Hypsipetes philippinus
A common and widespread species in forested areas with up to 15 seen daily at
Mt. Katanglad, up to 12 daily at Logarita, Bohol (being ever-present in a fruiting
tree along the Valley Trail), and up to 12 daily at Quezon.
PHILIPPINE FAIRY BLUEBIRD - Irena cyanogaster
Pairs were seen along both the trails leading from the Scout Camp Clearing at
Logarita, Bohol, with 4 seen on the 7th and 2 seen on the 9th showing extremely
well in response to tape playback. On one occasion a male was seen displaying
to a female and on another occasion carrying nest-material.
(WHITE EYE-BROWED SHAMA - Copsychus luzoniensis)
Although two individuals were heard along the Ridge Trail on both days at Quezon,
rather disappointingly, neither were seen.
Pied Bushchat - Saxicola caprat
Seen on the climb up to Mt. Katanglad with 3 seen on the 1st and 1 on the return
on the 5th, and 2 were seen at Pagbilo Fish Ponds on the 13th.
Blue Rock Thrush - Monticola solitarius
A single female was seen in the American Cemetery on the 31st, and
a superb male was seen near the entrance to Quezon on the 12th, with
both birds being seen in tall trees.
Eye-browed Thrush - Turdus obscurus
Seen at Mt. Katanglad with 1 seen on the 2nd, 10 on the 3rd, 25 on the 4th and
10 on the 5th, and a single individual seen from the road at Quezon
on the 13th.
Flyeater - Gerygone sulphurea
We saw 2 in the American Cemetery on the 31st.
Striated Warbler - Megalurus palustris
A total of 4 were seen in the American Cemetery on the 31st, with 10 seen at
Mt. Katanglad on the 2nd and 2 on the 3rd, and around 6 were seen
at the Pagbilo Fish Ponds on the 13th.
Oriental Great Reed Warbler - Acrocephalus orientalis
Singles were seen in the American Cemetery on the 31st and at the Pagbilo Fish
Ponds on the 13th.
Mountain Leaf Warbler - Phylloscopus trivirgatus
Singles were seen at Mt. Katanglad on both the 1st and 3rd with 2 seen on the
4th.
PHILIPPINE LEAF WARBLER - Phylloscopus olivaceus
A single bird was seen along the right-hand trail leading from the Scout Camp
Clearing at Logarita, Bohol on the 7th.
Arctic Warbler - Phylloscopus borealis
Recorded at Mt. Katanglad with 2 seen on both the 3rd and 5th, and
at Quezon where a single bird was seen along the Ridge Trail on the 13th. Often
encountered low in the foliage allowing some good views to be obtained. Some
individuals showed obvious wingbars with others showing little or no sign, although
all showing the characteristically pronounced supercillia.
MINDANAO MONTANE TAILORBIRD - Orthotomus heterdaemus
Up to 4 were seen daily at Mt. Katanglad including a recently fledged juvenile.
A rather unobtrusive species being found strictly in the lower levels of the
remnant forest patches.
BLUE FANTAIL - Rhipidura superciliaris
A rather scruffy species only being seen at Logarita, Bohol, with 10 seen on
the 7th, 1 on the 8th and 2 on the 9th, with most observations along
the trails leading from the Scout Camp Clearing.
BLUE-HEADED FANTAIL - Rhipidura cyaniceps
Just 2 were seen along the Ridge Trail at Quezon on the 12th - neither performed
that well for us.
BLACK AND CINNAMON FANTAIL - Rhipidura nigrocinnamomea
A superb species often allowing extremely good prolonged views in the remnant
patches of forest at Mt. Katanglad, with 4 seen on the 1st, 2 on the 3rd, 4
on the 4th and 6 on the 5th.
Pied Fantail - Rhipidura javanica
We saw 4 in the American Cemetery on the 31st.
Rufous-tailed Jungle Flycatcher - Rhinomyias ruficauda
A single bird performed well for around a quarter of an hour along the left-hand
trail leading from the Scout Camp Clearing at Logarita, Bohol on the 9th. Described
by Brooks et al. (1995) as unobtrusive and uncommon at Logarita.
Mugimaki Flycatcher - Ficedula mugimaki
Males, presumably migrants, in full plumage, were seen on both the 3rd and 4th
at Mt. Katanglad with fine views obtained. They were a particular highlight
as we hoped but did not expect to see this species, with the added bonus that
they took some of the pain out of the memory of a rainy day at Sunk Island !
Snowy-browed Flycatcher - Ficedula hyperthra
A single male was seen in a remnant patch of forest at Mt. Katanglad well above
the "Upper Eagle Viewpoint" on the 3rd.
Little Pied Flycatcher - Ficedula westermanni
Seen on four dates at Mt. Katanglad with 2 seen on the 1st, 1 on the 2nd, 6
on the 3rd and 1 on the 5th, with about an equal number of males
and females being seen.
Grey-streaked Flycatcher - Muscicapa griseisticta
Seen on four dates at Mt. Katanglad with 1 seen on the 1st, 2 on the 2nd, 4
on the 3rd and 2 on the 5th.
Philippine Verditer Flycatcher - Muscicapa panayensis
Seen on four dates at Mt. Katanglad with singles seen on the 2nd, 4th and 5th
and 4 on the 3rd.
Black-naped Monarch - Hypothymia azurea
Just a single individual seen - along the Swimming Pool Trail at Logarita, Bohol
on the 10th.
YELLOW-BELLIED WHISTLER - Pachycephala philippinensis
Recorded on two dates at Mt. Katanglad with 4 seen on the 4th and 8 on the 5th,
and along the trails leading from the Scout Camp Clearing at Logarita, Bohol,
where 2 were seen on the 7th. Usually seen associating with bird flocks.
Yellow Wagtail - Motacilla flava
Only seen in the paddies at Logarita, Bohol where 10 were seen on the 7th and
8 on the 10th.
Grey Wagtail - Motacilla cinerea
A smart subspecies is present on the Philippines with singles recorded at Mt.
Katanglad on the 1st and 5th, and 2 recorded on both the 2nd and
3rd, and a single bird being seen along the river near the entrance
to Quezon on the 12th.
Richard's Pipit - Anthus richardi
A single bird was seen at Changi Airport, Singapore on the 31st.
White-breasted Woodswallow - Artamus leucorhynchus
A pair were seen at Mt. Katanglad on the 5th, with up to 3 birds seen on three
dates at Logarita, Bohol, often watched hunting over the paddies, and a single
individual was seen at Quezon on the 12th.
Brown Shrike - Lanius cristatus
Seen on ten dates being recorded from all localities visited with maximums of
15 seen at the American Cemetery on the 31st, 3 at Mt. Katanglad on the 3rd,
2 at Logarita, Bohol, on the 10th and 11th, and a single bird near
Quezon on the 12th. Some particularly fine-plumaged males were seen.
Long-tailed Shrike - Lanius schach
Up to 8 were recorded daily at Mt. Katanglad mainly being encountered around
the clearings above the resthouse.
Lesser Glossy Starling - Aplonis minor
Up to 20 were recorded daily at Mt. Katanglad.
Asian Glossy Starling - Aplonis panayensis
Around 15 were seen on Bohol on the 7th, and 20 on the 11th.
Violet-backed Starling - Sturnus philippensis
A flock of around 80 were seen coming down to the lawns to drink in the American
Cemetery on the 31st. Far shyer than expected. This species is listed
as Near-threatened by Collar et al. (1994).
Crested Myna - Acridotheres cristatellus
Around 6 were seen in both the American Cemetery on the 31st and at the Pagbilo
Fish Ponds on the 13th.
MOUNT APO MYNA - Basilornis miranda
At least 6 were seen perched high in the forest from the "Upper Eagle Viewpoint"
at Mt. Katanglad late in the afternoon of the 3rd. This species is listed as
Near-threatened by Collar et al. (1994).
COLETO - Sarcops calvus
Better and also encountered more frequently than expected. Up to 13 were seen
on four dates at Logarita, Bohol, and up to 4 were seen on both days at Quezon.
Purple-throated Sunbird - Nectarina sperata
Around 4 were seen during the early morning at the Scout Camp Clearing at Logarita,
Bohol, on the 11th.
HACHISUKA'S SUNBIRD - Aethopyga primigeius
Up to 3 were recorded on four dates whilst at Mt. Katanglad.
OLIVE-CAPPED FLOWERPECKER - Dicaeum nigrilore
Up to 6 were recorded on four dates whilst at Mt. Katanglad.
PHILIPPINE MONTANE FLOWERPECKER - Dicaeum antonyi
DC saw a vividly-coloured male along the trail that drops down to the stream
from the resthouse at Mt. Katanglad for around 10 minutes on the 5th. This species
is listed as Near-threatened by Collar et al. (1994).
Orange-bellied Flowerpecker - Dicaeum trigonostigma
Singles were seen at Logarita, Bohol, on the 10th and 11th, and at
Quezon on the 13th.
WHITE-BELLIED FLOWERPECKER - Dicaeum hypoleucum
Up to 2 were recorded on four dates at Mt. Katanglad - often being seen in the
vicinity of the resthouse.
PYGMY FLOWERPECKER - Dicaeum pygmaeum
JFC saw a single bird in a remnant patch of forest at Mt. Katanglad (with DC
only obtaining poor views) and a single bird was seen along the road at Quezon
on the 12th.
Buff-bellied Flowerpecker - Dicaeum ignipectus
Up to 4 were recorded on four dates at Mt. Katanglad.
MOUNTAIN WHITE-EYE - Zosterops montana
By far the commonest species at Mt. Katanglad with up to 80 recorded daily with
the birds on the higher slopes appearing more yellow and giving a more flava
Wagtail type call than those on the lower slopes ?
GOODFELLOWS WHITE-EYE - Lophozosterops goodfellowi
Up to 6 were recorded on four dates often being found in bird flocks in remnant
patches of forest above the resthouse at Mt. Katanglad.
CINNAMON IBON - Hypocryptadius cinnamomeus
Up to 8 were recorded on four dates at Mt. Katanglad.
Tree Sparrow - Passer montanus
Around 100 were seen around Manila and at Cagayan de Oro, up to 15 were seen
on Bohol, and 20 at Pagbilo Fish Ponds. This species was originally introduced
into Luzon but has spread to all sizeable inhabited islands (Clement (1993)).
MOUNT KATANGLAD PARROTFINCH - Erythrura coloria
Singles were seen at a large clump of bamboo along the main track at Mt. Katanglad
on the 2nd and by JFC on the way to the Hombron's Wood Kingfisher site on the
5th. This species is listed as Vulnerable by Collar et al. (1994) being 'known
from only two sites being likely to be under increasing pressure from the loss
of forest which is extending into its altitudinal and geographically restricted
range'. Described as scarce or very uncommon within its very small range (Clement
(1993)).
Scaly-breasted Munia - Lonchura punctulata
Around 6 were seen at the Pagbilo Fish Ponds on the 13th.
White-bellied Munia - Lonchura leucogaster
Up to 4 were seen on three dates in the clearings above the resthouse at Mt.
Katanglad.
Chestnut Munia - Lonchura malacca
Up to 6 were seen on two dates at Mt. Katanglad and 12 were seen at Pagbilo
Fish Ponds on the 13th.
PHILIPPINE BULLFINCH - Pyrrhula leucogenys
A single individual was seen perched in a dead tree at the first potato fields
below the "Upper Eagle Viewpoint" at Mt. Katanglad on the 3rd allowing
good views to be obtained in the late afternoon. This species is listed as Near-threatened
by Collar et al. (1994). It is described as 'scarce or only locally common and
very little known' (Clement (1993)).
References and Trip
Reports Used:
Brooks,T., Dutson,G., King,B., and Magsalay,P.M. (1995) An annotated check-list
of the forest birds of Rajah Sikatuna National Park, Bohol, Philippines. Forktail
11. O.B.C.
Chantler, P., and Driesens, G. (1995) Swifts. Sussex. Pica Press.
Clement,P., Harris,A., and Davis,J. (1993) Finches and Sparrows : An Identification Guide. London. Helm.
Collar,N.J., Croby,M.J. and Strattersfield, A.J. (1994) Birds to Watch 2.
Cambridge, U.K.: BirdLife International (Conservation Series No.4).
duPont,J. (1971) Philippine Birds. Delaware: Delaware Museum of Natural History
Fry, C., H., Fry, K. and Harris, A. (1992) Kingfishers, Bee Eaters and Rollers.
Harrap,S., and Quinn,D., (1996) Tits, Nuthatches and Treecreepers. London. Helm.
Hayman,P., Marchant,J. and Prater,T. (1986) Shorebirds: an identification guide to the waders of the World. London: Christopher Helm.
Hornbuckle,J. (1994) Birdwatching in the Philippines. Unpublished.
Kemp, A,. (1995) The Hornbills. OUP.
King, B.F., Dickinson, E.C. and Woodcock, M.W. (1975) A field guide to the birds of South-East Asia. London: Collins.
Mackinnon, J., and Phillips, K., (1993) Birds of Borneo, Sumatra, Java and Bali. OUP.
Madge, S., and Burn,H., (1994) Crows and Jays. London. Helm.
Sargeant, D.(1992) The Philippines. Unpublished.
Scharringa, J., (1988) Quezon National Park. OBC Bulletin No. 8.
Steere, J.B. (1890) A list of the birds and mammals collected by the Steere Expedition to the Philippines, with localities, and with brief preliminary descriptions of supposed new species. Ann Arbour, USA: Courier Printers.
Turner, A., and Rose, C., (1989) Swallows and Martins of the World. London. Helm.
Winkler, H., Christie, D., A,. and Nurney, D., (1995) Woodpeckers. Sussex. Pica.
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