Negros Occidental is home to a large variety of birds, both native and migratory. It is located in the central part of the Philippines and is a popular destination for birders and nature lovers.
The area is home to a wide range of species, including rare and endangered species such as the Negros Bleeding-heart. Its diverse habitats provide a variety of habitats for birds, from wetlands, mangroves, forests, and agricultural areas.
The Negros Occidental province is a great place to explore and observe birds, with a wide range of species to be seen.
1. Philippine Duck
The Philippine duck is a species of duck that is native to the Philippines. It is part of the genus Anas, meaning it belongs to the same group of ducks as mallards, pintails, and teals.
It is a large bird, measuring up to 28 inches long, with males having a white head and breast, and a dark brown back. The native name for the Philippine duck is “papan”.The Philippine duck is an omnivorous species, meaning it eats both meat and plants.
Its diet consists of shrimp, fish, insects, and various types of vegetation.
It is also a very adaptable species and can be found in many types of wetlands, including marshes, lakes, ponds, and even urban areas. The Philippine duck is a species of conservation concern; its population has been declining, with its total population estimated to be fewer than 1,000 individuals.
Conservation efforts are being taken to protect the species, including habitat protection and captive breeding programs.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Anas |
| Species | A. luzonica |
2. Negros Bleeding Heart
Source: ebird.org
The Negros Bleeding-Heart Pigeon is a species that is unique to the Philippines. It is found on the islands of Negros and Panay, both of which are part of the Philippines. Unfortunately, the species is critically endangered, meaning that its numbers are rapidly declining.
This is due to the fact that the forests of both Negros and Panay are being lost at alarming rates. Unless conservation efforts are implemented and enforced, the species is likely to become extinct in the near future.
In order to save the Negros Bleeding-Heart Pigeon, it is essential that the forests of Negros and Panay are properly protected. This means preventing the destruction of existing forests, as well as replanting and restoring the areas that have already been deforested.
Additionally, programs should be developed to educate the local population on the importance of preserving the species and its habitat. Finally, the government should work to create legal protections for the Negros Bleeding-Heart Pigeon in order to ensure its continued survival.
The preservation of the Negros Bleeding-Heart Pigeon is of great importance not just to the Philippines, but to the world. This species is a unique part of the country’s biodiversity and its extinction would be a tragedy not only for the Philippines but also for the world.
It is essential that all those with the power to do so take action to protect and preserve this species so that future generations can enjoy its beauty and appreciate its importance to the planet.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Gallicolumba |
| Species | G. keayi |
3. Negros Fruit Dove
Source: ebird.org
The Negros fruit dove is a unique species of bird belonging to the Columbidae, or pigeon and dove family. This species is endemic to the island of Negros in the Philippines. It is named after the island, as it is only found there.
This species is quite rare, as it has only been documented once when a single female specimen was collected from the slopes of Mount Kanlaon in the northern part of the island.
The Negros fruit dove is one of the many species found in the Philippines, with a variety of colors and sizes, making it a unique part of the biodiversity of the island.
As it is endemic to Negros, the conservation of this species is important in order to maintain the unique biodiversity of the island.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Ptilinopus |
| Species | P. arcanus |
4. Wedge-Tailed Shearwater
The wedge-tailed shearwater is one of a few species of seabirds belonging to the family Procellariidae. It is characterized by its medium-large size and its ability to “shear” the surface of the water, which gives it its name.
It is commonly referred to as a muttonbird, a term which is also applied to other shearwater species such as the sooty shearwater of New Zealand and the short-tailed shearwater of Australia. The wedge-tailed shearwater is typically seen in the southern hemisphere, particularly in Australia, New Zealand, and the surrounding waters.
It has a mainly dark body, with a light-colored underside and distinctive wedge-shaped tail. The wedge-tailed shearwater is a long-distance traveler, capable of covering long stretches of ocean in search of food.
It is an opportunistic feeder, consuming a variety of small fish, squid, and crustaceans. The wedge-tailed shearwater is an important part of coastal ecosystems.
In addition to providing food for many other species, it helps to maintain the balance of the ecosystem by controlling the abundance of its prey.
The wedge-tailed shearwater is also an important part of the local culture in these regions, with its “muttonbirding” industry providing food and income to many families.
The bird is also a popular subject of scientific study, with researchers examining its foraging patterns and migration routes.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Procellariiformes |
| Family | Procellariidae |
| Genus | Ardenna |
| Species | A. pacifica |
5. Metallic Pigeon
The metallic pigeon is a type of bird that belongs to the Columbidae family. It is a medium-sized bird, with a length of up to 37 cm. It is mainly distinguished by its white throat, which gives it the other name of a white-throated pigeon.
The metallic pigeon has a distinctive metallic sheen to its feathers, which helps to distinguish it from other species of birds. Its plumage is generally grey or blue-grey in color, with a white throat and a black tail.
The metallic sheen of its feathers is caused by the refraction of light off the tiny scales on its feathers. Metallic pigeons are found in the tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Asia, and the Middle East.
They are mostly found in open woodlands, grasslands, and savannas. They feed on seeds, fruits, and insects, and they nest in cavities of trees. In some parts of the world, the metallic pigeon is hunted for sport. It is also a popular game bird, as it is fast and agile in flight.
The metallic pigeon is not a threatened species, but its population has been declining in some areas due to habitat loss.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Columba |
| Species | C. vitiensis |
6. Pink-Bellied Imperial Pigeon
The pink-bellied imperial pigeon is a species of large fruit-eating bird native to the Philippines. It is scientifically classified as Ducula poliocephala and is sometimes referred to as the zone-tailed pigeon.
These beautiful birds typically measure up to 42 centimeters in length and have a unique plumage pattern of various shades of pink and gray. The pink-bellied imperial pigeon is a highly social bird and is typically seen foraging in flocks of up to twenty individuals.
These flocks can often be seen in the treetops of the Philippines’ lowland and montane forests, searching for the fruits, flowers, and seeds that form the bulk of their diet.
As a result, they play a vital role in the dispersal of the seeds of the trees they feed on, which contributes to the health and regeneration of the Philippine forests. The pink-bellied imperial pigeon is also known for its impressive courtship display.
During the breeding season, pairs of these birds engage in a ritualized display of cooing and bowing that is believed to reinforce their bond and strengthen their pair bond.
Unfortunately, the pink-bellied imperial pigeon is considered Near Threatened by the IUCN, due to habitat loss, hunting, and trapping for the pet trade. Although conservation efforts have been made to protect this species, more must be done to ensure their future survival.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Ducula |
| Species | D. poliocephala |
7. Red Junglefowl
The red junglefowl is a species of bird belonging to the family Phasianidae, which includes a wide variety of other birds such as pheasants, partridges, and quail.
It is native to a large area that encompasses much of Southeast Asia and parts of South Asia, from India to Vietnam. It is a tropical bird, meaning it prefers warm climates. The red junglefowl is also known by another name, the bankiva or bankiva fowl.
This species is considered to be the wild ancestor of the domesticated chicken, although there is still debate as to whether or not the two species are actually closely related.
The red junglefowl is an important food source for many people in its range and is also an important part of the local ecology.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Galliformes |
| Family | Phasianidae |
| Genus | Gallus |
| Species | G. gallus |
8. King Quail
The king quail is a species of quail found in the Old World. It is also known by a variety of names, including blue-breasted quail, Asian blue quail, Chinese painted quail, and Chung-Chi.
This species of quail is a member of the Phasianidae family, which includes a variety of game birds such as pheasants, partridges, and quail. The king quail is a small game bird, typically measuring only seven to nine inches in length.
It has a distinct blue breast and wings, as well as a brown head and back. The tail is typically black and white, and the legs and feet are reddish-orange.
The male and female king quail look similar, although the male’s head and chest may be darker than the female’s.The king quail is found in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, open forests, and cultivated areas.
It has a wide range, spanning from India to the Philippines. It prefers to feed on the ground, and its diet consists primarily of seeds, insects, and other small invertebrates. The king quail is a popular species among bird lovers.
Its attractive coloring makes it an attractive addition to aviaries and other bird collections. It is also a popular game bird and is often hunted for sport.
Its popularity as a game bird has led to its decline in certain areas, and it is now considered vulnerable or endangered in some areas. Despite this, the species is still widespread and its population is relatively stable.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Galliformes |
| Family | Phasianidae |
| Genus | Synoicus |
| Species | S. chinensis |
9. Little Grebe
The little grebe, also known as dabchick, is a small, water-dwelling bird that is part of the grebe family. It is distinguished by its Latin name, which is derived from ancient Greek words meaning “fast” and “to sink under”.
Its specific name, ruficollis, is derived from Latin words meaning “red” and “necked”. The genus name is indicative of the bird’s ability to quickly submerge itself in the water, whereas its specific name is a reference to the bird’s reddish neck.
The Latin word collum, from which the word “collis” is derived, is also used to refer to the bird’s neck. This name emphasizes the bird’s distinctive physical features and helps to differentiate it from other members of its family.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Podicipediformes |
| Family | Podicipedidae |
| Genus | Tachybaptus |
| Species | T. ruficollis |
10. Wandering Whistling Duck
The Wandering Whistling Duck is a species of duck native to various areas in the Southern Hemisphere. They are found in Australia, the Philippines, Borneo, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, and various Pacific Islands.
This particular species is well-known for its unique whistling call, which can be heard during the night.
They typically inhabit tropical and subtropical areas, such as swamps, wetlands, and shallow lakes. The Wandering Whistling Duck is an interesting species due to its ability to adapt to its environment.
They are able to survive in a variety of climates and can be found in both coastal and inland areas. The ducks generally feed on small animals, mollusks, and vegetation found in the water.
They are also known to forage on land for food, such as berries and grass. The Wandering Whistling Duck is a social species, and they are often found in large flocks. They have a strong bond with one another and will often stay in the same area for extended periods of time.
These flocks can be seen flying across the sky during the day, and their loud whistling call can be heard at night. The Wandering Whistling Duck is an interesting and unique species.
They inhabit a variety of areas throughout the Southern Hemisphere, from tropical and subtropical Australia to the Pacific Islands. They have a distinctive call and are often seen flying in large flocks.
They are also able to adapt to their environment, making them an important species in many areas.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Dendrocygna |
| Species | D. arcuata |
11. Great Frigatebird
The great frigatebird, which belongs to the frigatebird family, is a large seabird that primarily inhabits tropical areas of the Pacific and Indian Oceans.
It is most commonly found nesting in the Hawaiian Islands and the Galápagos Islands of the Pacific Ocean, as well as in the Indian Ocean. These areas provide the great frigatebird with a wide variety of habitats that are suitable for their nesting and feeding habits.
Additionally, the birds have adapted to a variety of climates within these regions, ranging from tropical to subtropical. The great frigatebird is particularly adapted to life in the open ocean, as it is able to soar and glide for long periods of time.
This helps them to cover large distances in search of food, as well as for other activities such as nesting and roosting.
Additionally, their long wingspan and tail help them to maneuver quickly and efficiently in the air. The great frigatebird is a highly social species, often forming large flocks when foraging or nesting.
During the breeding season, the birds form nesting colonies and display an array of courtship behaviors.
Males are particularly known for their impressive courtship displays, during which they inflate their red gular sacs while hovering in the air. The great frigatebird is considered a vulnerable species due to its declining population, which is primarily caused by human activities such as overfishing, habitat destruction, and climate change.
Conservation efforts have been implemented in order to protect the bird’s habitat and ensure its continued survival.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Suliformes |
| Family | Fregatidae |
| Genus | Fregata |
| Species | F. minor |
12. Spotted Imperial Pigeon
The spotted imperial pigeon is a species of bird found in the family Columbidae. It is an endemic species to the Philippines and lives in forests and forest edges, often venturing down to the limestone shorelines likely in order to find food.
Unfortunately, this species is considered to be vulnerable and is under threat of habitat loss and hunting. This is particularly concerning as habitat loss is due to human activity while hunting is a direct threat to the species.
Therefore, conservation efforts should focus on protecting the spotted imperial pigeon’s habitat and preventing the hunting of the species. This will aid in ensuring the species’ survival and allow for its populations to remain stable.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Ducula |
| Species | D. carola |
13. White-Browed Crake
The white-browed crake is a species of bird from the family Rallidae, which includes rails, and crakes.
This species is found in a wide range of countries in Southeast Asia and Oceania, including Australia, Brunei, Cambodia, Fiji, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, India, Malaysia, Micronesia, New Caledonia, Palau, Papua New Guinea, the Philippines, Samoa, Singapore, Solomon Islands, Thailand, and Vanuatu.
This species can be found in a variety of habitats, from tropical rainforests and mangrove swamps to coastal areas and grasslands. It is particularly common in wetlands, where it can be found foraging for food in shallow water.
The white-browed crake feeds on a variety of invertebrates, including worms, mollusks, and insects. It also eats some seeds and plant material. The white-browed crake is a rather small bird, measuring around 18 cm in length and weighing around 50-60 g.
It is mainly gray in color, with distinctive white eyebrows and a white throat. Its legs and feet are yellow-green in color.
It has a short, rounded tail and a thin, pointed bill. The white-browed crake is not considered to be threatened, although its population numbers may be in decline due to habitat loss and human disturbance. It is listed as a species of Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.
The conservation of this species is important, as it plays an important role in the ecosystem by helping to keep insect and other invertebrate numbers in check.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Gruiformes |
| Family | Rallidae |
| Genus | Poliolimnas |
| Species | P. cinereus |
14. Common Emerald Dove
The Emerald Dove is a species of pigeon that is native to the tropical and subtropical parts of the Indian Subcontinent and Southeast Asia. It is also referred to as the Common Emerald Dove, Asian Emerald Dove, Grey-Capped Emerald Dove, Green Dove, and Green-Winged Pigeon.
This species of bird is a widespread resident, meaning that it is found in the same area throughout the year. The Emerald Dove can be identified by its distinctive coloration. Its head and wings are metallic green, while its tail and back are lighter, grayish-green.
The feathers on its wings are edged with white, and its bill is yellow. The dove’s underside is usually a light gray or white. The Emerald Dove is a large species of pigeon, measuring up to 13 inches long with a wingspan of up to 23 inches.
It primarily feeds on seeds and other plant material and can be found in grasslands, forests, and open fields.
This bird is also a seasonal migrant, which means it moves from one area to another during certain times of the year. The Emerald Dove is an important species of bird, as it is an important part of many ecosystems. It helps to disperse seeds and provides food for other animals.
It is also a popular species among birdwatchers and photographers due to its distinctive coloration and behavior.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Chalcophaps |
| Species | C. indica |
15. Sunda Collared Dove
The Sunda collared dove is a species of bird in the family Columbidae. It is native to Indonesia, but can also be found in parts of Southeast Asia, including Brunei, East Timor, Malaysia, and Singapore. It is also known as the Javanese collared dove or Indonesian collared dove.
The Sunda collared dove has a distinctive white collar around its neck and its body is grey-brown with a light orange chest. It is a medium-sized bird, with a wingspan of about 25 cm and a weight of around 85-90 g.
It is also characterized by its cooing call, which is soft and low-pitched. This species of bird is usually found in open woodlands, gardens, and parks. It feeds on a variety of seeds, grains, and fruits.
The Sunda collared dove is a sociable bird, and can often be seen in small flocks. It is not a threatened species, but populations may be declining due to habitat loss and hunting.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Streptopelia |
| Species | S. bitorquata |
16. Grebes
Grebes are a unique type of aquatic bird that belongs to the Podicipediformes order. They are found in freshwater habitats around the world, although some species migrate to marine habitats during migration and winter.
Most grebes are capable of flying, although there are a few species that are flightless. These flightless species are usually found in lakes that are stable and not disturbed by outside forces.
Grebes are an incredibly diverse species, with more than 20 species living across the globe. They have a unique appearance, with their slim body, long neck, and webbed feet, allowing them to feed and swim in the water.
They also have a distinctive mating ritual, in which they perform a courtship dance that involves the male and female grebes swimming in circles around each other.
Grebes are an important part of the aquatic ecosystem, as they are voracious predators, feeding on fish, crustaceans, insects, and even small mammals.
They are also important for their role in seed dispersal, as they transport seeds to new areas, helping to spread vegetation in new areas.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Mirandornithes |
| Order | Podicipediformes |
| Family | Podicipedidae |
Conclusion
Negros Occidental is home to a wide variety of birds, from the most common backyard species to rare and endemic species found only in the area.
The diversity of habitats in the area helps to ensure that the avifauna of Negros Occidental is one of the most unique and diverse in the Philippines.
The presence of birds in the area is a testament to the importance of conservation and the preservation of natural habitats in the region.