Over 4,000 Waterbirds Recorded in Sarangani Province in 2023 AWC

The Annual Asian Waterbird Census (AWC) conducted by the DENR Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) in Sarangani Province from January 18-19, 2023 recorded over 4,000 waterbirds of various species in eight wetland sites. 

Waterbird species seen include both resident and migratory birds that depend on wetlands for breeding, feeding, and resting, such as Whimbrels, Common Sandpipers, Kentish Plovers, Whiskered Terns, Lesser Frigatebirds, and Wandering Whales. Examples of these species include Little Egret, Intermediate Egret, Black-winged Stilt, Cinnamon Bittern, and Cinnamomeus (Charadrius hiaticula).

"We encourage everyone to take advantage of the annual Asian Waterbird Census (AWC) to observe and monitor the incredible biodiversity of Sarangani Province. Through the AWC, we have the unique opportunity to appreciate the natural wonders of the province and to help safeguard its future", said PENR Officer Maria Elvira V. Lumayag.

PENRO Lumayag added that “Sites in barangays Kawas, Alabel town, Badtasan in Kiamba, and Old Poblacion in Maitum were also visited in addition to the usual five (5) sites that we monitor annually,”.

The data collected by the teams will provide important information concerning the population sizes and distribution of these species in Sarangani Province. By keeping track of the population size and distribution of these species, conservationists can identify areas where populations may be declining and take steps to protect them, as well as monitor the overall health of wetland habitats.

    The collared kingfisher (Todiramphus chloris) seen in the wetlands of Bgy. Kawas, Alabel.

The beautiful Little Egrets (Egretta garzetta), living in harmony with nature at the wetlands of Bgy. Old Poblacion in Maitum.

    A black-winged stilt (Himantopus himantopus) forages for food in the shallow waters at the rice fields in Old Poblacion, Maitum.