On January 30, 2025, a birding group led by Peter Widmann spent 58 minutes exploring the Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center in Quezon City, Metro Manila. The excursion, which covered a distance of 0.8 km, was notable for the variety of bird species encountered in a relatively small urban area.

Among the 16 species spotted were several birds that are commonly found in urban environments, including the Rock Pigeon, Zebra Dove, and Eurasian Tree Sparrow. Other species, however, are more indicative of the area's natural surroundings.

The highlight of the visit was the presence of the Coppersmith Barbet, a bird that is typically associated with woodlands, but was seen near the urban lake in the park. The Black-crowned Night Heron, Gray-rumped Swiftlet, and Pacific Swallow were also noteworthy sightings, given the diversity of habitats represented.

Non-bird species encountered during the visit included species such as Philippine Hanging-Parrot, a brightly plumaged bird that typically inhabits the forest canopy.

The diversity of bird species recorded on this excursion demonstrates the importance of urban green spaces as habitats for birds, even if only for a few hours a day. The observation also highlights the potential for further research in the natural history of the area.

Notable details recorded by the group included counts of Yellow-vented Bulbul (15 individuals) and Barn Swallow (12 individuals), which could be of interest for researchers studying bird populations in the region.