Bulusan park survey highlights rich diversity of bird species

MANILA, Philippines — Beneath the dense canopy of Bulusan Volcano Natural Park (BVNP) in Sorsogon, a varied community of birds continues to thrive, from colorful forest dwellers to species found only in the Philippines.

A three-day avian assessment across the park’s different elevation zones documented resident, endemic and ecologically sensitive species, according to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Bicol.

Among the birds recorded were the Philippine Trogon (Harpactes ardens), Scale-feathered Malkoha (Dasylophus cumingi), Luzon Bleeding-heart (Gallicolumba luzonica), Indigo-banded Kingfisher (Ceyx cyanopectus), Luzon Hornbill (Penelopides manillae) and Luzon Boobook (Ninox philippensis).

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The presence of forest-dependent and ecologically sensitive birds shows that BVNP continues to provide suitable habitats for these species. DENR Bicol said the records also offer valuable data for monitoring the park’s biodiversity and changes in its ecosystems over time.

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“Through continued biodiversity monitoring and habitat conservation, DENR Bicol remains committed to safeguarding these vital ecosystems and ensuring that the rich avian diversity of Bulusan Volcano Natural Park is protected for generations to come,” the agency said.

Located near the southeastern tip of Luzon in Sorsogon, BVNP encompasses a mountain complex dominated by the active Bulusan Volcano, along with Sharp Peak and Mt. Jormahan. Its landscape includes montane and lowland forests, freshwater lakes and pools, secondary grasslands and agricultural areas.

Forest covers about 67 percent of the area’s identified habitat, providing refuge not only for birds but also for other endemic wildlife.

The park is recognized as a Key Biodiversity Area of international significance. Previous records from the area include threatened and restricted-range species, among them the Philippine Hawk-Eagle (Spizaetus philippensis), as well as mammals such as the Philippine Brown Deer (Cervus mariannus), Philippine Warty Pig (Sus philippensis) and southern Luzon Giant Cloud Rat (Phloeomys cumingi).

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Beyond providing wildlife habitat, BVNP is an important watershed that supplies water to communities and supports irrigation in surrounding agricultural areas. Its forests also provide natural protection from typhoons and flash floods.

These forests, however, have faced pressures from slash-and-burn farming, fuelwood gathering, illegal tree cutting and hunting. Wild plant collection has also been recorded in the park.

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The protected area covers 3,673 hectares and is designated as a national park under Presidential Proclamation No. 412. /mr