The presence of the Great Egrets in Manila Bay and to some areas in the Philippines is a proof that Philippines has touch of wildlife and a bird watching site.(Click on image to view larger)
After a long afternoon of work, I took a trip to Manila Bay and noticed a bird that was continuously changing direction and flying at high speed. My curiosity was piqued, and I quickly reached for my binoculars to observe it more closely. To my surprise, I discovered that it was a group of egrets wading elegantly in the water. This marked the second occasion I had encountered migratory birds in the Philippines. The first instance occurred during my summer vacation in 2010 when I returned to my hometown in Cagayan Valley, located in the northern part of Luzon. I vividly remember seeing an egret perched atop a carabao, while others were foraging in the grazing area. Unfortunately, when I attempted to capture the moment with my camera, they took flight immediately.
Considering the great number of egrets and some species I’ve seen everywhere near lake,river, swamps and mangrove areas.I believed that Philippines now is just like Malaysia that supports a large number of migratory birds. The reason why birds migrate? What is the purpose of migration?
Occasionally spotted nowadays, It’s quiet observable that most photographers and tourist have shown great interest to photograph the arrival of the migratory birds.It’s an expression that they care to contribute to the beauty of nature, and when you care? People does listen ! It’s just bringing message to some people the conciousness that we are presently in and what we should do to preserve wildlife because soon there would be a generation shift. Indeed,Philippines is now a ”bird watching site.”
You may also like: Previous articles about wildlife
Migratory Birds Part 1 Migratory Birds Part 2
Our frequent visitor everyday; the tree sparrows and the gray wagtail birds.They come everyday for a red treat! The Manzanita tree will provide the fruit treat,a sweet red fruit that they enjoy. Being familiar with them, gave me the opportunity to get closer without using blinds to deceive them.It was just a natural thing with their free will to get in touch with me closer than expected. It seems, they are already used to my presence everyday but, what irritates me most is the noisy sound they produced,It sounds like a rattle shaking with hard stones inside. It was really very annoying and, disturbing to the brain. Despite these things going on around, I will consider to get some few shots today. I was inside the bedroom photographing through the window for a close range. I was even fascinated with the outcome of the close-up shots.It was natural in color.This is the good thing of being familiar with the birds behavior and activities. I don’t need to trail their time and location,they are very near to my sight. Gray wagtail bird is one of the most common bird in the Philippines. It is distinguished by his gray color and the long tail that wags. Just a few close-up shots!
What a beautiful morning surprise! Large flock of birds continously chirping at my window this morning. I look out and saw the tree sparrows. Immediately, I went outside without delay with camera on hand. Because of excitement, I didn’t wait any longer to watch them. I keep still in one corner pausing quietly and moved closer to get a good view. I don’t see any available hides beside me but, I was able to photographed the birds before they disappeared in seconds.
The Tree sparrows, a very similar and most common species of bird.A greyish-brown in colour and feathers appeared to white,black and brown combination.They look stunning with the bright blue sky at the background. They all sat on an old branch of a Chico tree. They are active grooming exclusively in the morning.Though I hear sparrows chirping outside every morning, This is my first time to see them all together.A little bit close-up,You can see them sitting comfortably while grooming with more detail.What a great number!
I was even amazed to see them cleaning their feathers, spreading their wings, lifting to the right and left direction. Some hiding their heads and scratched all over. I guess, It’s a daily morning grooming. I have enjoyed watching them cleaning everything.
I love the higher pitch sound of the tree sparrows,but it’s just like music to my ear. Bird watching is really exciting!I don’t need to head off watching the birds in some areas. My own garden provides the natural environment for the birds to come.
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