Early risers and keen birdwatchers Russel Orodio embarked on a four-hour, 38-minute birding adventure in the lush Bislig lowlands of Agusan del Sur, Philippines, on January 8, 2025. Their traveling expedition yielded an impressive 12 species count, revealing the region's remarkable biodiversity.

The excursion got off to a gentle start with a sighting of the White-eared Brown-Dove (Short-billed), followed by a flock of four Yellow-breasted Fruit-Doves. As the morning wore on, the group spotted two wading birds, the Common Sandpiper and an unidentified species.

The Mindanao Hornbill and Brown-breasted Kingfisher shared the skies, while the Dollarbird's distinctive song echoed through the trees. The Buff-spotted Flameback made a memorable appearance, with three birds flitting between the branches.

A highlight of the trip was the observation of the Philippine Jungle Crow, a striking species frequently associated with tropical forests. The observers also witnessed two species of bulbul, the Philippine Bulbul and the Yellow-wattled Bulbul, which contributed to the chorus of morning sounds.

In addition to their visual encounters, the group noted two species of kingfishers, the Coleto, a beautiful flowerpecker with a bright red keel, and a Red-keeled Flowerpecker, which sparked particular interest due to its unique feature.

Throughout the expedition, the observers shared their enthusiasm for the region's avian life, highlighting the remarkable variety of species that inhabit the Bislig lowlands. Their journey serves as a testament to the importance of preserving and protecting these ecologically sensitive areas, ensuring the continued thrival of these magnificent creatures.