A recent birding trip to the Victoria Valley Subdivision in Antipolo, Rizal, yielded an impressive 29 bird species, showcasing the area's rich biodiversity. Led by Janina Castro, a team of four bird enthusiasts spent three hours in the restricted access area, recording an array of bird-life.

Rock Pigeons, Spotted Doves, and Asian Emerald Doves were among the earliest sightings, with the team spotting a total of 11 pigeons and doves throughout the day. The Philippine Coucal, a medium-sized bird with distinctive markings, was a rare sighting, with only one individual recorded.

The swiftlet family was represented by the Gray-rumped Swiftlet, with a whopping 25 individuals counted. One participant heard the distinctive call of the Philippine Hawk-Eagle, but unfortunately, it remained elusive. The Coppersmith Barbet, with its bright yellow cap, was a striking sight, with three individuals spotted.

Woodpeckers and kingfishers made appearances, with the Philippine Pygmy Woodpecker and Collared Kingfisher being notable sightings. The Western Hooded Pitta, a previously heard species, was heard again during the trip, further cementing its presence in the area.

The team also spotted a variety of songbirds, including the Golden-bellied Gerygone, Ashy Minivet, and Pied Triller. The Black-naped Oriole, with its striking black and white plumage, was a common sight, with 10 individuals counted. Other notable songbirds included the White-breasted Woodswallow and Philippine Jungle Crow.

Flycatchers, tailorbirds, and grassbirds rounded out the list, with the Gray-backed Tailorbird, Tawny Grassbird, and Gray-streaked Flycatcher being notable sightings. The Pacific Swallow, with its swift and agile flight, was a delightful sight, and the Philippine Magpie-Robin and Mangrove Blue Flycatcher were heard but not seen.

The trip concluded with a sighting of the Garden Sunbird, a small, sun-loving bird with bright yellow and orange plumage. This birding adventure in Victoria Valley Subdivision has highlighted the incredible diversity of bird-life in the area, and serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving and protecting these ecosystems.