On January 9, 2025, a group of 20 bird enthusiasts embarked on a 5-hour journey along the Panabo Coastal Road in Davao del Norte, Philippines. Led by Pete Simpson, the group aimed to record the region's avifauna, and their efforts were rewarded with an impressive 38-species checklist.

The day's sightings began with the Spotted Dove (Eastern) and Zebra Dove, which helped set the tone for what would be a fantastic day of birding. The Little Bronze-Cuckoo (Little) made a brief appearance, followed by large flocks of Ridgetop Swiftlet, Pied Stilt, and Pacific Golden-Plover.

Waders were plentiful, with Black-bellied Plover, Siberian Sand-Plover, Terek Sandpiper, Common Sandpiper, Gray-tailed Tattler, Marsh Sandpiper, and Red-necked Stint all making an appearance. The group was treated to an impressive sight with the Whiskered Tern, which numbered an astonishing 400 individuals.

Waterbirds dominated the day's sightings, with Little Egret (200 individuals), Javan Pond-Heron, and Great Egret (22) being some of the most notable. Kingfishers were represented by the Collared Kingfisher (Collared), while swallows and birdsong were provided by White-breasted Woodswallow, Philippine Pied-Fantail, Striated Grassbird, and Barn Swallow.

The group also spotted a variety of passerines, including the Golden-bellied Gerygone, Eurasian Tree Sparrow, Chestnut Munia, and Yellow-vented Bulbul. Finally, the Asian Glossy Starling and Garden Sunbird added some vibrant colors to the day's sightings.

This impressive birding trip was made possible through a partnership between the government agencies AWC, DENR, PENRO, and CENRO. The results will undoubtedly contribute to a deeper understanding of the region's avifauna and inform conservation efforts.