Photo by: DENR Central Luzon
TARLAC CITY — The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), in partnership with the Tarlac provincial government and the municipal government of Victoria, recorded 3,907 birds representing 48 species during a bird-watching activity at the Canarem Lake Bird Sanctuary in Tarlac as part of the observance of World Migratory Bird Day.
The activity documented 22 migratory species, 21 native species and five endemic species, underscoring the importance of Canarem Lake as a habitat for resident and migratory birds.
The wandering whistling-duck (Dendrocygna arcuata) accounted for the largest number of sightings, with 2,693 individuals recorded. Participants also observed 269 Philippine ducks (Anas luzonica), a vulnerable species protected under DENR Administrative Order No. 2019-09.
DENR Regional Executive Director Ralph Pablo said the presence of the Philippine duck and the diversity of bird species highlight the need to protect Canarem Lake as a feeding, resting and sheltering area for wildlife.
Photo by: DENR Central Luzon
“Recording bird species and their populations supports effective management initiatives for Canarem Lake. Activities such as bird watching and tree planting raise public awareness and encourage stakeholders to take an active role in protecting biodiversity,” Pablo said.
As part of the conservation effort, the DENR, through its community office in Tarlac, and participating stakeholders planted 50 fruit-bearing seedlings within the lake area.
Once mature, the trees are expected to provide additional food sources for birds and other wildlife while improving the ecological value of the wetland sanctuary.
Meanwhile, Tarlac Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office head Jowell Dellosa said the DENR would continue promoting biodiversity conservation, habitat restoration and responsible environmental stewardship to maintain the ecological viability of wetlands such as Canarem Lake.
The initiative formed part of the global observance of World Migratory Bird Day, which raises awareness of the journeys of migratory birds and the environmental threats they face.
Photo by: DENR Central Luzon
This year’s theme, “Every Bird Counts,” emphasizes the importance of monitoring bird populations and protecting wetland ecosystems that serve as critical habitats for wildlife.
The bird count and tree-planting activity underscored the role of local governments, environmental agencies and communities in safeguarding biodiversity and preserving natural habitats for future generations.