On January 9, 2025, Andrew Wolfe embarked on a birding adventure at Lake Danao Camotes in the Philippines, resulting in an impressive 18 species sighting in just 22 minutes. The lake, located in the province of Cebu, proved to be a treasure trove of feathered friends.

The tour began with a flock of five Tufted Ducks, their white bodies and dark heads with distinctive tufts of feathers making them easy to spot. These diving birds were a highlight of the trip, with their bright yellow eyes and bluish bills adding to their charm.

Other waterbirds included Little Grebe, with its distinctive black and white plumage, and four Little Egrets, their snowy-white feathers glistening in the sunlight. A Nankeen Night Heron and a Striated Heron were also spotted, their distinctive calls and haunting eyes making them memorable sightings.

The lakeside thickets and trees harbored a variety of birds, including Zebra Doves, Philippine Coucals, and Gray-rumped Swiftlets. A Common Kingfisher and a Collared Kingfisher were seen flitting between the trees, their bright blue and green plumage catching the eye. A Golden-bellied Gerygone, a Pied Triller, and a White-breasted Woodswallow added to the avian diversity of the trip.

Several species of birds with distinctive songs and calls were also heard, including a Philippine Pied-Fantail, whose melodic trill echoed through the trees. Yellow-vented Bulbul, Asian Glossy Starling, and Garden Sunbird were seen flitting through the underbrush, their vibrant colors and sweet songs adding to the sensory experience.

Finally, four Eurasian Tree Sparrows and two Golden-bellied Gerygones rounded out the 18 species spotted during the trip. Whether amateur or seasoned bird enthusiast, this trip to Lake Danao Camotes proved to be a thrilling experience, with its diversity of bird species and habitats offering something for everyone.