Birds of Mt. Polis: A Day of Diverse Observations
On August 26, 2025, a pair of bird enthusiasts, Lena Hartebrodt and Jonathan Klawitter, spent a morning exploring the area around Mt. Polis in Ifugao Province, Philippines. Over the course of 1 hour and 16 minutes, covering a distance of 3.44 kilometers, they made significant observations of 16 different bird species.
The day began with the sighting of Ridgetop Swiftlets, which were seen in impressive numbers at 15 individuals. These agile birds were followed by several other species, including the Eastern Cattle-Egret, which Lena and Jonathan spotted in single numbers, the Philippine Pygmy Woodpecker, and the Golden-bellied Gerygone.
The observers noted the presence of various warblers, with the Green-backed Whistler and the Philippine Bush Warbler being notable mentions. The Blue-headed Fantail and Negros Leaf Warbler were also seen on this trip.
Other birds of interest included the Sulphur-billed Nuthatch, Crested Myna, and Little Pied Flycatcher, each making a single appearance during the observation period. Two types of flowerpeckers, the Yellow-crowned Flowerpecker and the Fire-throated Flowerpecker, were recorded, as well as a lone Metallic-winged Sunbird.
The day's observations concluded with the presence of various non-passerine birds, including the Warbling White-eye, observed at ten individuals, and the Eurasian Tree Sparrow, seen in significant numbers at eight individuals. These sightings demonstrate the remarkable diversity of birdlife in this region of the Philippines.