Birding Spree at Luntiang Republika Ecofarms
On August 24, 2025, Bayani Thaddeus Barcenas embarked on a birding trip at Luntiang Republika Ecofarms in Cavite, Philippines. The observation lasted for 50 minutes in a stationary setup, and it yielded an impressive list of 12 bird species.
The trip started with swiftlets, with two unidentified swiftlets spotted in the area. Barcenas then caught sight of a solitary Coppersmith Barbet, a distinctive bird known for its vibrant copper plumage. Two Guaiaberros, a type of broad-billed bird, were also spotted, adding to the growing list.
Other notable sightings included a Philippine Hanging-Parrot, which made a fleeting appearance, as well as a Gray-backed Tailorbird and a Philippine Bulbul. The two Yellow-vented Bulbuls seen in the area were a welcome addition to the day's total.
In the midst of the lush vegetation, a pair of Stripe-sided Rhabdornis added their distinctive voices to the chorus of sounds in the area. A White-browed Shama was observed, and the distinctive calls of another were noted, suggesting that more of this bird species may inhabit the area.
One remarkable sighting was a solitary Mangrove Blue Flycatcher, which was seen early in the morning. The list also includes a Red-keeled Flowerpecker, which made a brief appearance, and a pair of Purple-throated Sunbirds, which consisted of a male and a female. The morning concluded with a single Garden Sunbird sighting.
The observations made by Barcenas highlight the diversity of bird species found at Luntiang Republika Ecofarms, which serve as a testament to the rich biodiversity of the region.