Early risers Rene Reyes embarked on a birding adventure at Pristine Beach, Puerto Princesa, Palawan, on January 9, 2025. For a little over an hour, Rene indulged in the tranquil atmosphere, recording an impressive total of 9 bird species during their stroll along the 0.74-mile beach.

One of the highlights of the trip was the encounter with the elusive Greater Coucal, a large bird with striking red eyes. The coucal's presence was a remarkable find, and Rene took note of its distinctive characteristics.

The beach also played host to an array of smaller birds, including the ubiquitous Asian Emerald Dove and Zebra Dove, which were spotted in pairs. The Medium Egret, with its striking white plumage, made a solitary appearance, while the agile Philippine Pied-Fantail flitted about, its barred tail feathers a blur.

Rene's keen eye also caught the Rufous-tailed Tailorbird, a rare sighting indeed. The Asian Glossy Starling, with its iridescent feathers, was seen in large numbers, contributing to a dazzling display of color and light.

Notably, Rene documented the Mangrove Blue Flycatcher, which boasts a striking color palette including dark blue, orange, and yellow. This photograph-worthy find was a real treat for Rene, and they took the time to snap pictures for future reference.

Lastly, the Eurasian Tree Sparrow, a familiar face to many, joined the fray, with Rene counting a total of three individuals.

The morning's observations serve as a testament to the incredible biodiversity that can be found in Pristine Beach's stunning setting. As the sun rises over this picturesque destination, it's not hard to imagine the wealth of avian wonders waiting to be discovered.