On January 6, 2025, bird enthusiast Datulabi Jr. Untong embarked on a thrilling birding trip in Taviran, Maguindanao, Philippines. In just five minutes, he managed to spot an impressive total of three bird species, leaving him with unforgettable memories of the encounter.

One of the highlights of the trip was the sighting of the Plaintive Cuckoo, a rare and elusive bird species. Alone in the area for a brief moment, the cuckoo's mournful call echoed through the landscape, making it a truly special experience for Datulabi.

The Black-crowned Night Heron (Eurasian) also made an appearance, with two individuals spotted in the area. Known for their distinctive black and white plumage, these herons are a common sight in the region, but it's not every day that birders get to see them up close.

Another notable sighting was that of the Philippine Jungle Crow, a bird species endemic to the country. With its gleaming black feathers and distinctive call, the Philippine Jungle Crow is a popular sight among bird enthusiasts. This particular sighting saw two individuals present, further adding to the excitement of the trip.

Finally, Datulabi counted a total of 10 unidentified swallows, providing a thrilling finale to his brief birding adventure. Despite the brief duration of the trip, Datulabi managed to rack up an impressive species count, and his excitement is palpable in his recounting of the experience.

Overall, the birding trip was a resounding success, with four species spotted in mere minutes. For Datulabi, it was a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and one that he will surely cherish for years to come.