A group of 10 birding enthusiasts, led by Chris Lotz of Birding Ecotours, embarked on a thrilling birding trip at Sidlakan Resort in Infanta, Quezon, Philippines on January 7, 2025. The group spent over an hour and a half exploring the area, covering a distance of approximately 8.72 miles.

During the trip, the group spotted an impressive 18 bird species, showcasing the incredible diversity of birds in the region. The most notable sightings included the Pygmy Swiftlet, Gray-rumped Swiftlet, and Ridgetop Swiftlet, which are all rare and unique to the Philippines.

The group also had the pleasure of observing several bird families, including the Philippine Pygmy Woodpecker and the Blue-headed Fantail. Their efforts were rewarded with a sighting of the majestic Brahminy Kite, a beautiful bird of prey.

Other notable species spotted during the trip include the Coppersmith Barbet, Brown Shrike, Elegant Tit, Gray-backed Tailorbird, and Philippine Bulbul. The group also had a thrilling encounter with the Yellowish White-eye, with its striking yellow and white plumage.

The Suldakan Resort proved to be a haven for bird enthusiasts, with its rolling hills and lush vegetation providing ample opportunities for spotting a wide range of bird species. The trip was a resounding success, with participants from Birding Ecotours and individual birders alike thrilled by the variety of birds they encountered.

The participants' collective expertise and enthusiastic observations ensured that the trip was an unforgettable experience, with many species adding to their lifetime lists. As the group departed, they couldn't help but look forward to their next birding adventure in this remarkable region.