On January 8, 2025, a group of 10 bird enthusiasts embarked on a two-hour, 46-minute trip along Marcos Highway in Infanta, Laguna, Philippines. Led by Chris Lotz of Birding Ecotours, the group discovered an astounding 9 Stripe-sided Rhabdornis (Rhabdornis striaticeps) perched in the area. This sighting is particularly notable, as the Stripe-sided Rhabdornis is a scarce species in the Philippines.

The observation took place in a brief window from 17:41 to 20:27, with participants traversing a distance of approximately 1.39 miles. The group's vast expertise and keen eyesight allowed them to spot the birds, which were observed displaying their striking features.

The Stripe-sided Rhabdornis is a species of leafbird native to Southeast Asia, characterized by its striking stripes and distinctive song. This rare find highlights the importance of preserving the region's diverse avifauna and the role that birding enthusiasts play in discovering and documenting these species.

The successful observation was made possible through the collective efforts of Chris Lotz, Birding Ecotours, and fellow birder Frank Murphy. This remarkable sighting serves as a testament to the region's rich biodiversity and underscores the significance of continued conservation efforts.