REMOTE PHILIPPINES TOUR REPORT

Transcription

1 REMOTE PHILIPPINES 9 FEBRUARY 3 MARCH 2008 TOUR REPORT LEADER: TIM FISHER One of the most memorable things about our third Remote Philippines was the rain and mud we endured throughout the trip. The birding was hard and undoubtedly many birds were missed because of it. February is the start of the breeding season, but this year, bird song was much reduced with a few of our target birds not being heard at all. Be that as it may, we had to work doubly hard and in the end we were successful in seeing many exciting birds including most of our targets. We recorded a total of 252 species of which 11 were heard only. These included a total of 118 endemics, of which nine were heard only. The itinerary took us from the mountains of North Luzon to the southern tip of Mindanao. During these three weeks, many notable birds stand out such as thousands of Philippine Ducks, Cream-bellied Fruit-Dove on the nest, Pink-bellied Imperial Pigeon, Luzon Bleeding-heart on the trail, excellent views of Black-hooded Coucal and male Philippine Trogon, six species of hornbill, both Mindanao and Visayan Wattled broadbills, many Zamboanga Bulbuls, great views of Grand Rhabdornis and Flame-templed Babbler and many more. The group was always in good spirits despite the deplorable weather. First day, and we all duly congregated in the lobby of the Heritage Hotel at 4.45am, ready to depart for the airport. Our first stop was Dumaguete, Negros Oriental in search of a number of Negros endemics. This required visiting various sites, so we based ourselves in the clean and comfortable Bethel Hotel in Dumaguete, and went out from there. We were met at the airport by our vehicle and Rene, the guide. On the first afternoon, we journeyed far to the town of Basay and the scrubby limestone hills above. We were looking for Negros Bleeding-heart, but to no avail. We did see Blackchinned Fruit-dove well, though, and our first Philippine Bulbuls plus many common open country birds. The second day took us to Siaton and the hills above Mantakil, where there is still good forest. It was quite a walk and by the time we reached it, the rain had set in. We had our first views of a major target bird, the White-winged Cuckoo-shrike. They were with Bar-bellied Cuckoo-shrikes and the white-bellied form of Balicassiao plus two Blue-crowned Racquet-tails. Another bird of interest was a pair of the attractive Negros form of the Stripe-breasted Rhabdornis. We were soon into the mossy forest but the wind and rain continued and the temperature was fast approaching what felt like subzero. We found one major flock that held birds such as Sulphur-billed Nuthatch, the white-bellied form of Blue-headed fantail, several Yellowish White-eyes, Little Pied Flycatcher, Elegant tit and one 1 Birdquest: Remote Philippines 2008

2 Negros Striped Babbler that was seen poorly by some of us. Bernard, later, was able to find a flock of four, but otherwise the weather was keeping this target bird well hidden. Our journey back down the hills in our van was interesting as our very nervous driver crawled along the now extremely muddy roads. Our second full day on Negros took us to Ban-Ban, north of Dumaguete, in the Municipality of Ayungan. Here you can find remnants of lowland forest, which has been pretty well cleared on Negros. We saw a number of birds seen yesterday, such as the cuckoo-shrikes. Included in them, this time, was a Philippine Oriole, which gave us fine views. We had our first views of Philippine Woodpecker and Stripe-headed Rhabdornis. Two Philippine Coucals were found on the roadside and a Philippine Serpent eagle flew overhead. A fruiting tree, found shortly before we were about to leave held a number of Coletos and Philippine Cuckoo-doves. Probably the most interesting bird though, was an Ashy-breasted Flycatcher amongst a small flock. This rarely seen bird showed well; its light grey wash all over the breast, lack of eye-ring and very short wings all showed well. On the 14 th, we had a morning s birding on Negros and so went to Casa Roro, above Valencia, about 40 minutes from the hotel in the foothills of Mt Talinis. The area is a forested gorge with steps going down to the stream. It was on these steps we birded and were pretty successful. Our main target, the Flame-templed Babbler, was singing at first light but we had to wait a little while before we all saw it well. We also saw White-vented Whistler and many Crimson Sunbirds. Then a Visayan Flowerpecker perched high on a snag, allowing us excellent scope views. Over the other side we heard the characteristic call of the Visayan Hornbill sounding like a child s Christmas trumpet. We soon saw a pair, briefly but satisfactorily. It was then down the hill and back to the Bethel Hotel before taking the afternoon fast ferry to Bohol. Upon arrival in Tagbilaran, we were soon on our way to the Chocolate Hills Resort, our home for the next two days. For these two days, we would be birding in the Rajah Sikatuna National Park, home to some very interesting birds. The weather was overcast, raining much of the time. Birds were subsequently quiet if not silent. We never heard a squeak out of our main target, the Steere s Pitta, even though we tried hard to find it. We started in a large clearing, known as Magsaysay Park, surrounded by great forest. We were soon rewarded with two Samar Hornbills flying over and a number of Spangled Drongos. We would be spending most of the day in the forest and so at 7.00am we entered on one of the many trails. Many birds we were looking for are to be found in mixed flocks, so we keenly looked out for these. During the day we had two or three and were able to see such birds as Blue Fantail, Yellowbellied Whistler, Philippine Leaf warbler, Black-crowned Babbler and a female Mugimaki Flycatcher. One of the first birds seen was the handsome Black-faced Coucal, high in the canopy. A loud Philippine Fairy Bluebird eventually showed well to all of us. One of the highlights of the day, though, was a close and confiding Red-bellied pitta seen near the trail. We tried in vain to attract in three different Streaked Ground Babblers, but a Yellow-breasted Tailorbird did show itself to one or two of us. After our picnic lunch, brought to us from the hotel, we decided to try for the Silvery Kingfisher along the river at Riverside. After a bit of searching, we were soon rewarded with great views of one individual. As the rain had ceased, we tried the forest trails again; nothing new except that we were able to get good views of the Rufous-fronted Tailorbird. We decided to wait until dark for owling but the weather was not supporting us. We did hear a nearby Philippine Eagle Owl and saw two Great Eared Nightjars fly over. The real excitement, though, was a Colugo or Flying Lemur gliding over the clearing and climbing the tree trunks. This bizarre animal is distantly related to the Monkeys. It was then back to the Chocolate Hills resort for a Chinese dinner and bed. The next morning, before dawn, we were back at Magsaysay Park. Birds were quiet, except for a confiding Chinese Goshawk. Today was overcast but not raining, so we entered the forest earlier than the day before. We saw many of the birds we had the previous day plus a Streaked Ground Babbler that did respond well to playback giving all of us excellent views. After an hour or so in the forest, I heard a distinct whirring of wings. Immediately after, Peter S saw the Visayan Wattled Broadbill high 2 Birdquest: Remote Philippines 2008

3 in the canopy, and Joe got onto it too. It disappeared in a flash and the rest of us spent, unsuccessfully, some time trying to track it down. This was soon followed by a female Philippine Trogon, rather uncooperative, and further good views of Black-faced Coucal. We continued all day trying to track down Steere s Pitta but in the end were unsuccessful, although we all got great views of Yellow-breasted Tailorbird at the last minute. It was then back to the lodge for lunch, where the Group were eventually able to see the Chocolate Hills in the daylight. We took the 4.30pm fast ferry to Cebu and checked in to the pleasant Montebello hotel for an overnight stay. It was 5.00am when we left the hotel, arriving at Tabunan around 6.20am. Tabunan, a large village based in the Central Cebu National Park was where the Cebu Flowerpecker was rediscovered in On the sides of the hills, there are small remnant patches of old growth forest and it was to one of these we made our way. It was not long before we had great views of a key target bird, the Cebu Black Shama, also in association with a Mangrove Blue Flycatcher. Much of the day was spent on top of Platform two. Hardly a platform but more of a sharp rocky outcrop, with very little sitting space. We spent the rest of the morning there avidly searching for the Cebu Flowerpecker, but only Redkeeled Flowerpeckers were to be seen. A number of other species were seen, including Everett s White-eye, Philippine Pygmy Woodpecker and a fine Rusty-breasted Cuckoo. As we were to fly to Manila late afternoon, we had to leave around 2.00pm. We drove to Cebu airport, flew to Manila and made our way to the Heritage Hotel. We flew today to San Jose on the south-west coast of Mindoro. Our destination is the Sablayan Penal Farm, two hours drive north. The area holds one of the last remaining areas of lowland forest in Mindoro, home to such rare birds as the Mindoro Bleeding-heart and the Black-headed Coucal. After a quick breakfast in San Jose and some shopping for Bingo biscuits, we were on our way, arriving at 10.30am. A quick stop by the river gave us Plain Martin but little else. It was decided to enter the forest for the rest of the morning. A Black-headed Coucal was calling close-by, but the vegetation was so thick, it was impossible to see it. After lunch, we first went to Lake Libuao. It was very peaceful and tranquil, with a few inmates fishing from a boat in the middle of the lake. There were over one hundred Wandering Whistling duck and ten Philippine Duck plus a number of commoner water birds. After an hour or so, we transferred to the forest edge to await the late afternoon activity. This can be quite exciting as different birds appear. First were Bar-bellied Cuckoo-Shrikes and two Black-and-white Trillers plus our first Philippine Falconet, high on a snag. Three Blue-naped Parrots were seen off and on as they flew noisily in front of the forest. It is the pigeons that are the most interesting, fly back and forth before going to roost. The first seen was a high flying Spotted Imperial Pigeon, seen well, unfortunately, only by Tim. There were twenty Green Imperial Pigeons and a flock of up to forty Metallic Wood Pigeons. At dusk, we tried for the Mindoro Hawk Owl. Although it did not call, it flew in to playback, giving us all brief but satisfactory views. On the way back to the van, a large number of Great-eared Nightjars were seen hunting over the fields. Afterwards we drove to Sablayan town, for an overnight in the Long Beach hotel. The following day, we were back at Siburan at dawn, ready to enter the forest in search of our Mindoro endemic targets. Initially quite steep, we soon got into great forest. The first to fall was Scarlet-collared Flowerpecker, feeding on fruits high in the trees, along with several Bicolored Flowerpeckers. Blue-crowned Racquet-tails were present, noisy but hard to see. We were constantly tracking down the coucals hearing both several Black-faced and Philippine. During this time, the group obtained good views of a pair of Mindoro Hornbills, our only sighting. A White-bellied Woodpecker flew across the trail, but only some of us saw it. Soon the mournful call of at least two Black-hooded Coucals were calling close by. We approached closer and eventually this very skulking bird showed itself well to all. In the afternoon, we returned to lake Libuao. The birds were much the same except for a spectacular White-breasted Sea-Eagle that flew low over the lake. It was decided to wait till late afternoon again on the forest edge. The birds were much the same except firstly for a 3 Birdquest: Remote Philippines 2008

4 Black-bibbed Cuckoo-shrike, seen high on the top of a far tree. While we were watching the pigeons again, a Pink-bellied Imperial Pigeon was continually booming back in the forest unseen. We decided to get closer to see if it would answer to its call. Within no time, it was perched close by in a nearby dead tree. A spectacular finish to a great day, not least because the sun had remained shining! It was then back to San Jose and overnight in the Sikatuna Beach Resort. Our flight this morning would first take us to Manila and then a four hour wait to get the flight to Tuguigarao, our starting point for the Sierra Madre Mountains in Northern Luzon. Instead, after a four hour delay in Mindoro and a wait in the skies of twenty minutes, we were still in traffic fifteen minutes before the flight was due to leave. The Gods were with us, though, as the flight was also delayed (for us?) and we just got on. In Tuguigarao, we were to visit the Malasi lakes in the afternoon so we piled everything into the van and set off. The lakes are fairly unknown to birders but hold a lot of promise. As we approached we could see they were teeming with duck. All in all, there must have been 5-6,000, the majority being Wandering Whistling Duck, Philippine Duck, Garganey, Northern Pintail and Northern Shoveler with smaller numbers of Eurasian Wigeon, Eurasian Teal, Tufted Duck and Common Pochard. There were surely others but our time was short. The raptors were exciting: three Pied harriers including a stunning male, one male Eastern Marsh Harrier plus female and the very rare (for Luzon) Black-shouldered Kite. There were many other birds but those of most interest to the group were two Blue-breasted Quail and a small number of larks, both Singing Bushlark and Oriental Skylark. It was getting dark as we tore ourselves away and drove to the Lorita Hotel for an excellent Chinese dinner and a good nights sleep. We were duly met at 5.30am, by Escobar our driver and guide, and Jimmy our cook. All provisions having been acquired, we set off in the jeepney to Baliwag, our starting point to Hamut. An hour later, we were at the house of Escobar and repacking our bags etc for the porters to carry. This being done fairly efficiently, we were off on our walk to camp One by 8.00am. The walk took a little over four hours and for the first two hours or more, it was mostly open country birds though we did see a stunning female Pied Harrier, quartering very close. As were got closer to the camp, forest birds were becoming evident; we had close views of a single male Luzon Hornbill plus Blue-headed Fantail, Yellowish White-eyes, and Pygmy, Bicolored and Striped Flowerpeckers, the latter being seen well. Unfortunately it started to pour with rain, so we entered our campsite thirty minutes later, not only thirsty and hungry but very wet as well! Anyhow, hot coffee and lunch soon put us right, and we were eager to get out in the field in search of many interesting birds. We set off on the trail above the camp. We quickly added Red-crested Malkohas, Blackish Cuckoo Shrikes and two of the difficult White-lored Orioles. This was not all, as we saw a pair of Grand Rhabdornis on the top of a tree, soon to be replaced by a pair of accommodating White-fronted Tits. And lastly we were able o get our first views of the majestic Rufous Hornbill. Back at camp, it was soon turning into a village with our seven tents, large tarpaulins to cover all plus the eighteen staff and porters. After the first of several excellent Tanduays and orange, we all had a great night s sleep. The next day we were to climb to Camp Two at Hamut but first we were to spend three hours birding in the lower slopes. It had rained a lot during the night so all trails were muddy and treacherous. The first excitement came with a male Blue-breasted Flycatcher although not all got onto it. The day was dull and overcast, with very little song. We did though firstly have good views, after a lengthy struggle, of a White-browed Shama. Our target were feeding flocks and two such flocks produced several Golden-crowned and Luzon Striped Babblers, a single Lemon-throated Leaf-warbler plus Sulphur-billed Nuthatches, Blue-headed Fantails, Yellow-bellied Whistlers and Yellowish White-eyes. At 9.00am, we set off. The trail was tedious and extremely muddy. Between the two camps there is very little forest until the last stretch, only the tough cane grass. Birds were silent although we did flush four pigeons almost certainly Cream-bellied Fruit-dove. By 4.00pm, we were at camp two, and once again the guys had done well in setting up our large campsite. 4 Birdquest: Remote Philippines 2008

5 Today we were to have a full day birding on the ridge and above the camp with Whiskered Pitta our main target. The early morning started fine although a very early calling Whiskered Pitta never called again. The day started well with a responding Spotted Wood Kingfisher which flew in for all to see. This was followed by a fine pair of Blue-breasted Flycatchers. Further up above the camp, we were all able to get on to a single Sierra Madre Crow with its distinct call. Soon we were up on the ridge and the first excitement was a splendid male Philippine Trogon showing itself well. At 10am, the heavens opened and it did not stop until around 3pm. As such, we returned to camp but tried again, in the late afternoon. A little after 4pm, we heard a Whiskered Pitta that was responding but not moving. It was just before dusk when it flew in to the trees above but by then it was too late and too dark. After a night of continuous rain and poor sleep, we awoke to what beckoned to be a better day. We would bird up to the ridge before returning to Camp One. Rain was off and on today and the birds quiet. We had a good start when we crept slowly up to the nest of a pigeon that was flushed the day before. This morning it sat there, close to the trail, a Cream-bellied Fruit-dove giving us all great views. Up on the ridge it was quiet although a fruiting tree was full of birds including four close Grand Rhabdornis, which was a treat. We continued down to Camp one, still looking for the pitta. One responded close by and I got everybody to look along the trail. Peter L s words there is a Luzon Bleeding-heart on the trail had us all keenly looking at this hard to find bird. The pitta, though, was not heard again. The rest of the walk down was hard: muddy, wet and difficult and the group s usual good spirits were sorely put to test. It was back to camp one, in the rain again, so we settled down to cups of hot coffee and some tanduay later, which greatly helped revive our spirits. We had to leave early the next day, in order to return to Baliwag and then to Tuguigarao airport. We did though try for a Philippine Scops Owl that called close-by. In response to the tape, a bird flew straight in giving us excellent views. After another near encounter with a pitta, sadly flushed by others on the trail, we were on our way. Bird-wise, it was uneventful and, before long we were at Tuguigarao and on the plane to Manila. As our next stop was Mt Apo, we continued on to Davao, and spent the night in the very comfortable Apo View hotel. Our next destination was Mt Apo, on the eastern slopes above Kidapawan. Our van met us at 6.00am and we were on our way. First a stop at Kidapawan to buy food for lunch then on to Mt Apo. Our access was to be the Geothermal site run by the Philippine National Oil Corporation (PNOC). Although much forest had been removed, we were able to access various altitudes by road and then go on great forest trails. There is a lot of bureaucracy and red tape required entering the PNOC compound, much already completed. We were though required to visit the Administration building before our birding could begin. We were, though, soon in some excellent forest. We had several feeding flocks that included such new endemics as Grey-hooded Sunbird and a number of Cinnamon Ibon, a strange aberrant white-eye besides commoner birds as Little Pied Flycatchers and Sulphurbilled Nuthatches. An odd call soon directed us to a large fruiting tree where we found one of our main targets, the Whiskered Flowerpecker, acting more like a hummingbird than flowerpecker. We then went down to Lake Agco, where we would spend the two nights in a simple resort. Near the resort, were many fruiting and flowering trees, full of birds. These included three Black-masked White-eyes, plus many Buzzing and Orange-bellied Flowerpeckers. A Violet Cuckoo briefly called and was spotted perched on a nearby snag. In a far tree, we counted thirteen Mindanao Hornbills, whilst three Yellow-breasted Fruit Doves flew into a close tree just before dusk. After dinner, we made a short owling foray and heard two Giant Scops Owls, but they remained out of sight. The next day took us first to Site G of the compound, where we were greeted by several Apo Mynas. As the area is 1600m, we were able to see a pair of the attractive Apo Sunbirds and three Black-and- Cinnamon Fantails plus other new birds as Island and Eye-browed Thrushes. We then transferred to Site H, with Tim sitting in the back of the pick-up. This was fortunate, as he was able to spot a Mountain Shrike high up the slope. It did not move, so we all had great scope views of the 5 Birdquest: Remote Philippines 2008

6 handsome bird. At this site, we were able to add Rufous-headed Tailorbird and a great view of Whitebrowed Shortwing. Back on the road, which we decided to walk, a confiding Philippine Hawk Cuckoo showed itself well. Large numbers of Philippine Swiftlets were also seen in the area. In the afternoon, we returned to Lake Agco where the same birds were in evidence plus several Olivecapped Flowerpeckers, well spotted by Bernard. Our final venture was to return to Site H to look for Mindanao Scops Owl, another target bird. Several were calling and we soon closed in on one in the forest. These birds are very difficult to see. Bernard, though, was able to see one fly in to the tree above him, in response to the tape, and then later fly out. On our last morning, we decided to return to site H and the trail to Macadac, that showed a lot of promise. Many flocks were seen, but no new birds were amongst them. A fruiting tree held several Apo Mynas and one Amethyst Brown-dove that showed well. Mindanao Racquet-tails flew overhead but were not seen. Further along the trail, they were heard again and one flew close in front of us, but only Joe and Tim got onto it. A White-cheeked Bullfinch called and was found, high in a tree but only Tim and Peter S got onto it before it disappeared. Our main target today, though was Mindanao Lorikeet, a bird that is becoming extremely difficult to see. Two very short calls were heard at different times above the canopy, but the birds were not traced. Further up the trail were two Yellowbreasted Fruit-doves and a pair of Brown Tit-babblers building a nest, showing themselves well. It was soon time to go, first back to Agco to get our bag then Kidapawan for lunch and eventually Davao airport for our flight to Manila and an overnight-stay in the Heritage hotel. Another early flight from Manila, this time to Zamboanga in the south-west of Mindanao. Our destination was the Zamboanga Watershed, sometimes known as the Pasonanca Natural Park, an area of pristine forest, covering 10,000 hectares. After dropping our bags at the hotel, we proceeded to the Watershed intake just outside town. Spending the rest of the morning here, we found a number of endemics including our first Yellow-wattled bulbuls. We did not stay long as it was decided to get up to our next destination before the rains started. After lunch, we packed our pickup and set off to Boluno, on the western side of the Zamboanga watershed, our birding destination for the next two days. We stayed in the rest house of the Department of Natural Resources, which was basic but comfortable enough. A few hours of daylight were left so we walked on a rough road adjacent to the forest. Close to the station, along the road, many bushes were fruiting and were full of birds, most notably the Zamboanga Bulbuls, very evident by their attractive songs. A Philippine Hawk-Eagle flew overhead briefly. We also saw a large cuckoo eluding us along the road soon announcing itself as an Indian Cuckoo with its distinct three-note call. Four Philippine Needletails showed well. The bushes were full of flowerpeckers, particularly Buzzing, Bicolored and Orange-bellied. A single Olivebacked was seen by Tim but it promptly disappeared. A great find, though was a Philippine Leafbird that appeared larger and definitely sounded different to birds in Eastern Mindanao. The following morning, it was up before dawn and a try for owls. The only one calling was Mindanao Hawk-Owl (a good split from Philippine Hawk-Owl) and it soon flew in to playback of its call. We then returned to the forest edge for early morning birding. A very responsive White-eared Tailorbird just kept flying too fast for all to see and a noisy Rufous Paradise flycatchers remained high in the canopy for us to get anything but poor views. There were up to 12 Philippine Needletails in a flock and an unexpected Osprey also flew over. At around 8.00am, we entered into excellent pristine forest with high expectations. The trail though was very muddy making it difficult to always look up. Our main target was the Mindanao Wattled Broadbill but it was along time until the whirring wings signified its presence. Unfortunately, only Peter L was able to spot the bird high up in the canopy. The forest today though was quiet and a little disappointing. On exiting, we soon came across a lot of activity including naked-faced Spiderhunter. After a long lunch, thanks to the rain, we returned to the road along the forest edge. Lots of birds again but nothing new. At 5.00pm, we returned to Zamboanga and checked into the Lantaka, an elegant hotel of old colonial style. We all enjoyed our final dinner by the beach. 6 Birdquest: Remote Philippines 2008

7 As our flight to Manila was late morning, some of us returned to the intake to try for the White-eared Tailorbird again. One eventually came out on display and some had good views. Then it was back to Manila, albeit after an enforced delay at the airport, and the end to a fun but wet trip. 7 Birdquest: Remote Philippines 2008

8 SYSTEMATIC LIST Species which were seen and nit heard are indicated by the symbol (H). Species which were not personally recorded by the leader are indicated by the symbol (NL). PODICIPEDIDAE Little Grebe Tachybaptus ruficollis: Six individuals seen at the Malasi lakes ARDEIDAE Purple Heron Ardea purpurea: Up to three seen at Lake Libiao at Sablayan and one at the Malasi lakes near Tuguigarao. Great Egret Egretta alba: One seen at Ayungan, Negros, two at Malasi lakes and two in fishponds in Zamboanga. Intermediate Egret Egretta intermedia: Most wetlands and rice paddies held at least a few of these birds with forty at Malasi. Little Egret Egretta garzetta: A few present at all wetlands and rice paddies. Little heron (Striated Heron) Butorides striatus: One on river at Riverside, Bilar, Bohol. Yellow Bittern Ixobrychus sinensis: One at Malasi Lakes. Cinnamon Bittern Ixobrychus cinnamomeus: Individuals at Lake Libuao and Baliwag. ANATIDAE Wandering Whistling Duck Dendrocygna arcuata: Around 100 on Lake Libuao whilst over 1500 at the Malasi lakes was a magnificent spectacle. Eurasian Wigeon Maraca Penelope: Fifty birds at the Malasi lakes Eurasian Teal Anas crecca: Fifty birds at the Malasi lakes. Philippine duck Anas luzonica: Up to fifteen on Lake Libuao. Over 1500 seen on the Malasi lakes Tufted Duck Aythya fuligula: Around 150 on Malasi lakes. Common Pochard Aythya ferina: Six individuals at Malasi lakes. Northern Pintail Anas acuta: More than 800 on the Malasi lakes. Garganey Anas querquedula: Over 1000 on the Malasi lakes Northern Shoveler Anas clypeata: Around 700 seen on the Malasi lakes PANDIONIDAE Osprey Pandion haliaetus (NL): One flew overhead at Baluno, Pasonanca watershed. ACCIPITRIDAE Black-shouldered Kite Elanus caeruleus: An individual seen at the Malasi lakes. This is only known site for this bird on Luzon. Brahminy Kite Haliastur Indus: Several individuals seen throughout trip. White-bellied Sea-eagle Haliaeetus leucogaster: One magnificent adult seen soaring low over Lake Libiao at Sablayan. Chinese Goshawk Accipiter soloensis: One male seen well at the Magsaysay Park in Rajah Sikatuna, Bohol in the late afternoon. Grey-faced Buzzard Butastur indicus: One individual seen flying overhead on our walk back to Baliwag. This bird is becoming rarer each year. Philippine Serpent-Eagle Spilornis holospilus: Seen or heard many times during the tour. Eastern Marsh-Harrier Circus spilonotus: One male and one female seen at the Malasi lakes. Pied Harrier Circus melanoleucos: One magnificent male and two females seen at Malasi lakes with another female at Baliwag. Philippine Hawk-Eagle Spizaetus philippensis: One individual seen well at Baluno, Pasonanca watershed. 8 Birdquest: Remote Philippines 2008

9 FALCONIDAE Philippine Falconet Microhierax erythrogenys: Ones and twos seen at Sablayan, Zamboanga, Hamut and Mt Apo. PHASIANIDAE Blue-Breasted Quail Coturnix chinensis: Two flushed at the Malasi lakes. Red Jungle-fowl Gallus gallus: Five individuals of probably wild birds seen on walk back from Camp 1 to Baliwag. RALLIDAE Barred Rail Gallirallus torquatus: One seen on road at Siburan. White-browed Crake Porzana cinerea: Two individuals seen at both Lake Libiao and the Malasi lakes. Plain Bush-hen Amaurornis olivacea (H): Heard once at Siburan. White-breasted Waterhen Amaurornis phoenicurus (H): One heard near Baliwag. Common Moorhen Gallinula chloropus: Two at Lake Libiao and up to twelve at the Malasi lakes. Eurasian Coot Fulica atra: Four at the Malasi lakes. CHARADRIIDAE Asian Golden Plover Pluvialis fulva: Three at Malasi lakes. Little Ringed Plover Charadrius dubius: Five at the Malasi lakes. SCOLOPACIDAE Common Greenshank Tringa nebularia: Two seen at the Malasi lakes. Wood Sandpiper Tringa glareola: Common on drive to Sablayan and fifteen at Malasi. Common Sandpiper Actitis hypoleucos: Seen at the Malasi lakes and Sablayan. LARIDAE Black-headed Gull Larus ridibundus: One seen from ferry on way to Cebu. Whiskered Tern Chlidonias hybridus: Seen from the ferry to Tagbilaran, off the coast at Dumaguete and near Tuguigarao. COLUMBIDAE Rock Pigeon Columba livia: Common Pompadour Green Pigeon Treron pompadora: Up to ten seen at Siburan in forest. White-eared Brown-dove Phapitreron leucotis: Widespread and common in forested areas. Amethyst Brown-Dove Phapitreron amethystine: Two individuals seen well at Hamut above camp 2, and at Mt Apo on trail above Site H. Cream-bellied Fruit-Dove Ptilinopus merrilli: Everyone had excellent views of bird on the nest very close to trail. Other birds flushed. Yellow-breasted Fruit-Dove Ptilinopus occipitalis: Three individuals of this beautiful fruit-dove showed well in fruiting tree at Lake Agco. Black-chinned Fruit-Dove Ptilinopus leclancheri: One seen well at Basay, Negros, on our first day in the field, and another in Tabunan. Heard also at Rajah Sikatuna and Hamut. Pink-bellied Imperial Pigeon Ducula poliocephala: Calling incessantly in the forest at Sablayan, we were all able to get excellent views of this spectacular pigeon when it flew in close in response to tape. Spotted Imperial Pigeon Ducula carola: One flew over the forest at Sablayan but only seen by Tim. Green Imperial Pigeon Ducula aenea: Up to twenty birds seen at Sablayan each day and one heard at Rajah Sikatuna both days. Metallic Pigeon Columba vitiensis: A flock of forty seen at Sablayan. One to two seen each day at Mt Apo. 9 Birdquest: Remote Philippines 2008

10 Red Turtle Dove Streptopelia tranquebarica: Seen at both the Malasi lakes and the walk up to Camp 1, Hamut. Spotted Dove Streptopelia chinensis: Common and widespread. Philippine Cuckoo-dove Macropygia tenuirostris: A number seen at Negros, Sablayan, Mt Apo and the Zamboanga watershed. Emerald Dove Chalcophaps indica: Individuals seen at Ban-Ban, Zamboanga watershed, Rajah Sikatuna and near camp One at Hamut. Zebra Dove Geopelia striata: Common and widespread. Luzon Bleeding-heart Gallicolumba luzonica: It was as we waited for the pitta to respond, that I told people to look along the path. Instead a Luzon Bleeding-heart walked out and was first spotted by Peter L. PSITTACIDAE Mindanao Lorikeet Trichoglossus johnstoniae: Two very brief calls were heard from within the forest on Mt Apo. This bird was notably silent. Blue-naped Parrot Tanygnathus lucionensis: Up to four noisy individuals seen in the late afternoon on the forest edge at Sablayan on both days. Blue-crowned Racquet-tail Prioniturus discurus: Seen fairly well at Mantakil, South Negros. Also seen at Sablayan and Pasonanca watershed. Luzon Racquet-tail Prioniturus montanus: One briefly seen and heard at Camp 2, Hamut by Tim. Mindanao Racquet-tail Prioniturus waterstradti: Several heard flying over forest out of view, although one bird, which flew close by, was seen by Tim and Joe. Colasisi Loriculus philippensis: Not uncommon at Sablayan, Hamut, Tabunan and Pasonanca. CUCULIDAE Philippine Hawk-Cuckoo Cuculus pectoralis: One bird seen well at Site H, Mt Apo, as it flew close by and then perched in answer to playback. Indian Cuckoo Cuculus micropterus: One heard at Sablayan, whilst another seen at Boluno near Zamboanga watershed in late afternoon. This resident race with its three note call maybe a future split. Oriental Cuckoo Cuculus saturatus: One seen at the Pasonanca Intake area. Plaintive Cuckoo Cacomantis merulinus: Individuals seen at Casa Roro and Rajah Sikatuna NP. Heard in Sablayan and Pasonanca. Rusty-breasted Cuckoo Cacomantis sepulcralis: Abundant on Mt Apo where also seen. Also seen Tabunan and heard at Hamut and Ban-Ban. Drongo Cuckoo Surniculus lugubris: Individuals seen at Rajah Sikatuna and Pasonanca Intake. Others heard elsewhere. Common Koel Eudynamys scolopacea: Commonly heard at Sablayan where one seen. Others heard at Zamboanga. Red-crested Malkoha Phaenicophaeus superciliosus: Most people were able to see the two individuals above Camp 1 at Hamut. Scale-feathered Malkoha Phaenicophaeus cumingi: One seen briefly by Tim in forest above Camp 1. Black-hooded Coucal Centropus steerii: Several calling, we had views of two individuals, one very well. Lesser Coucal Centropus bengalensis: Many birds seen or heard throughout the tour. Philippine Coucal Centropus viridis: We often heard and sometimes saw this common and widespread bird. Black-faced Coucal Centropus melanops: Seen well at both Rajah Sikatuna NP and the Pasonanca STRIGIDAE Mindanao Scops-Owl Otus mirus: This rarely seen owl was commonly calling every night on Mt Apo. It gave us the run around as we tried too see it, but only shadows! 10 Birdquest: Remote Philippines 2008

11 Philippine Scops-Owl Otus megalotis: Oddly uncommon during this tour, this bird was seen well at Hamut. Heard also at Rajah Sikatuna, Zamboanga and Mt Apo. Giant Scops-Owl Mimizuku gurneyi (H): We tried hard to see one of three individuals calling at Lake Agco but they remained hidden. Also heard at Baluno. Philippine Eagle-Owl Bubo philippensis (H): One individual screamed loudly at dawn one morning at Rajah Sikatuna. Brown Hawk-Owl Ninox randi (H): Heard briefly around 11.00pm one night at Hamut at Camp Two. Philippine Hawk-Owl Ninox philippensis (H): Often heard, it remained obstinately out of sight. Mindoro Hawk-Owl Ninox mindorensis: One individual at Sablayan flew in to playback but never called. Mindanao Hawk-Owl Ninox spilocephalus: Separated mainly from the close philippensis by its distinct call, we all saw it well at Boluno, Zamboanga. CAPRIMULGIDAE Great-eared Nightjar Eurostopodus macrotis: Seen in the evening at Rajah Sikatuna, Sablayan and Camp 1 Hamut. The haunting call and great flight is still a thrill to see. Philippine Nightjar Caprimulgus manillensis: One seen briefly at Mt Apo whilst others were heard. Savanna Nightjar Caprimulgus affinis: One seen briefly by Tim as it was flushed off road at Sablayan. APODIDAE Island Swiftlet Collocalia vanikorensis: Common and widespread. Philippine Swiftlet Collocalia mearnsi: Up to forty a day seen at Mt Apo. Glossy Swiftlet Collocalia esculenta: Common at Rajah Sikatuna, Mt Apo and Zamboanga. Hundreds of active nests in rest-house at Baluno. Grey-rumped Swiftlet Collocalia marginata: Commonly seen each day at Negros and Sablayan, where the rumps were very pale. Pygmy Swiftlet Collocalia troglodytes: This distinctive little swiftlet with its bright white rump, was common at Hamut, Philippine Needletail Mearnsia picina: Bernard saw one at Mantakil, whilst we all saw up to twelve on the forest edge of Zamboanga watershed at Boluno on both days. Purple Needletail Hirundapus celebensis: Up to thirty seen at dusk over open country at Sablayan. Also at Boluno. House Swift Apus affinis (NL): One seen by Bernard at Malasi lakes. Asian Palm-Swift Cypsiurus balasiensis: Seen at Basay in Negros, Baliwag and at Kidapawan. HEMIPROCNIDAE Whiskered Treeswift Hemiprocne comata: Two seen well at Boluno. TROGONIDAE Philippine Trogon Harpactes ardens: Although heard several times, one female was seen by some at Rajah Sikatuna NP whilst we all had great views of a splendid male on the ridge at Hamut. CORACIIDAE Dollarbird Eurystomus orientalis: Up to two individuals seen at Boluno in the Pasonanca watershed. ALCEDINIDAE Common Kingfisher Alcedo atthis: Individuals seen on the Malasi lakes and Lake Libiao. Silvery Kingfisher Alcedo argentata: As per last year, we all got a thrill when we located this bird along the river at Riverside near Bilar. White-throated Kingfisher Halcyon smyrnensis: Several seen at Lake Libiao and Zamboanga. 11 Birdquest: Remote Philippines 2008

12 Rufous-lored Kingfisher Halcyon winchelli (H): This bird called only briefly at Rajah Sikatuna and never responded to its call. White-collared Kingfisher Halcyon chloris: A common and widespread kingfisher. Spotted Wood-Kingfisher Actenoides lindsayi: One bird seen well at Camp Two at Hamut. MEROPIDAE Blue-throated Bee-eater Merops viridis: A number seen in the forest at Sablayan. Blue-tailed Bee-eater Merops philippinus: Common and widespread. BUCEROTIDAE Luzon Hornbill Penelopides manillae: One seen and others heard at Hamut. Mindanao Hornbill Penelopides affinis (H): A flock of thirteen seen at Lake Agco and others heard at Boluno. Samar Hornbill Penelopides samarensis: Up to three seen at Rajah Sikatuna NP. Mindoro Hornbill Penelopides mindorensis: Two seen briefly in the forest at Sablayan. Others heard. Visayan Hornbill Penelopides panini: A pair seen at Casa Roro. Rufous Hornbill Buceros hydrocorax: Several flocks seen at Hamut at both Camp One and Two. CAPITONIDAE Coppersmith Barbet Megalaima haemacephala: Commonly heard or seen including the redhead on Cebu. PICIDAE Philippine Pygmy woodpecker Dendrocopos maculates: Several of this fine little woodpecker seen, often joining mixed feeding flocks. Sooty Woodpecker Mulleripicus funebris: One bird was seen briefly but well by Peter Smith as it landed on tree near him at Boluno. Also heard at Hamut. White-bellied Woodpecker Dryocopus javensis: Heard at Rajah Sikatuna and the forest at Siburan, where one was seen by some of the party. Greater Flameback Chrysocolaptes lucidus: Seen well on Mt Apo. Also heard at Rajah Sikatuna NP and Hamut. EURYLAIMIDAE Mindanao Wattled Broadbill Eurylaimus steerii: We sought hard for this bird. It was as I heard two fly in with their characteristic whirring of the wings, that Peter L spotted one high in the Canopy. Visayan Wattled Broadbill Eurylaimus samarensis: As per the Mindanao bird, we were first aware of the bird by its whirring wings. Peter S and Joe spotted the bird but it quickly disappeared, not to be seen by the others. PITTIDAE Whiskered Pitta Pitta kochi: Although one or two were heard, the really bad weather prevented us from seeing this bird. Red-bellied Pitta Pitta erythrogaster: One seen well by all at Rajah Sikatuna whilst another seen by Tim at Sablayan. HIRUNDINIDAE Plain Martin Riparia paludicola: One bird seen at Sablayan along the river bank. Barn Swallow Hirundo rustica: Very common. Pacific Swallow Hirundo tahitica: Remarkably scarce this year. Striated Swallow Hirundo striolata: One seen near the Dairy Husbandry at Los Banos. 12 Birdquest: Remote Philippines 2008

13 ALAUDIDAE Singing Bushlark Mirafra javanica: Two pairs seen well at the Malasi lakes. Oriental Skylark Alauda gulgula: Several seen at the Malasi lakes, on the walk from Baliwag and the IRRI rice paddies. CAMPEPHAGIDAE Bar-bellied Cuckoo-shrike Coracina striata: Several seen at Sablayan whilst others heard at Zamboanga, Hamut and Makiling. Blackish Cuckoo-shrike Coracina coerulescens: Three seen and others heard of this noisy Cuckooshrike at Camp two at Hamut Black-bibbed Cuckoo-Shrike Coracina mindanensis: Seen on Mindoro. White-winged Cuckoo-Shrike Coracina ostenta: One of our main targets on Mt Canloan, everyone saw at least two birds well. Black-and-White Triller Lalage melanoleuca: The larger northern race was seen at Sablayan and Makiling whilst a female of the very distinctive minor race was seen well in Zamboanga. Pied triller Lalage nigra: A common bird of the open country. Scarlet Minivet Pericrocotus flammeus: Two seen in mixed flocks at Zamboanga watershed whilst two to three more seen at Hamut. Ashy Minivet Pericrocotus divaricatus: 25 birds seen at Sablayan and three small flocks at Makiling. CHLOROPSEIDAE Philippine Leafbird Chloropsis flavipennis: Up to three individuals seen of this beautiful endemic. The call was quite different to East Mindanao birds. PYCNONOTIDAE Yellow-vented Bulbul Pycnonotus goiavier: A very common and widespread bird. Yellow-wattled Bulbul Pycnonotus urostictus: several individuals seen at the Zamboanga watershed. Philippine Bulbul Hypsipetes philippensis: A common bird everywhere in or near forest. Surely the Mindoro form, with its raucous call, distinct song, brownish throat and shaggier crown must warrant consideration as a separate species. Zamboanga Bulbul Hypsipetes rufigularis: Common in the Zamboanga forests, it has a loud and cheerful song. DICRURIDAE Balicassiao Dicrurus balicassius: Up to five of the black form seen at Sablayan and Makiling whilst up to eight of the white bellied form seen most days in Negros. Spangled Drongo Dicrurus bracteatus: Several seen at Zamboanga and Rajah Sikatuna NP. ORIOLIDAE Philippine Oriole Oriolus steerii: Very common in the Zamboanga watershed. Also seen in Ban-Ban and heard in Rajah Sikatuna NP. White-lored Oriole Oriolus albiloris: Two responded well to playback at Camp One at Hamut. Black-naped Oriole Oriolus chinensis: Seen in Negros and Sablayan and heard at Rajah Sikatuna. Philippine Fairy-Bluebird Irena cyanogaster: Several seen and heard at Rajah Sikatuna NP, Boluno in Zamboanga and Hamut. CORVIDAE. Palawan Crow Corvus pusillus: Two seen at Sablayan. Sierra Madre Crow Corvus sierramadrensis: One seen well above camp two at Hamut. Large-billed Crow Corvus macrorhynchos: Common on Negros, up to twelve seen at Sablayan, and six at Zamboanga. 13 Birdquest: Remote Philippines 2008

14 PARIDAE Elegant Tit Parus elegans: Commonly seen in all forested areas. White-fronted Tit Parus semilarvatus: We were able to scope a pair of these exotic tits above Camp One at Hamut. SITTIDAE Sulphur-billed Nuthatch Sitta oenochlamys: Several of this very handsome nuthatch seen at Negros, Hamut and Mt Apo. RHABDORNITHIDAE Stripe-headed Rhabdornis Rhabdornis mystacalis: A number seen at Hamut and also seen at Ban- Ban. Stripe-breasted Rhabdornis Rhabdornis inornatus: Up to six seen of the attractive and distinct race rabori in hills above Mantakil. Grand Rhabdornis Rhabdornis grandis: Two seen well above camp One whilst four to five birds were seen very closely in feeding flock on ridge above Hamut, TIMALIIDAE Streaked Ground-Babbler Ptilocichla mindanensis: One bird seen well and others heard at Rajah Sikatuna NP. One heard at Zamboanga. Black-crowned Babbler Stachyris nigrocapitata: Two birds seen both days in mixed feeding flocks. Golden-crowned Babbler Stachyris dennistouni: Everyone had cracking views of this very smart Babbler at Hamut. Flame-templed Babbler Stachyris speciosa: Another major target. Eventually everybody had great views of this splendid bird. Luzon Striped Babbler Stachyris striata: Four birds seen well above Camp One Hamut. Negros Striped Babbler Stachyris nigrorum: Bernard had good views of three to four birds whilst another showed itself briefly. Brown Tit-Babbler Macronous striaticeps: A pair seen well building nest on trail at Site H Mt Apo. Also seen at Rajah Sikatuna and Zamboanga watershed. TURDIDAE White-Browed Shortwing Brachypteryx montana: Commonly heard on Mt Apo, one individual was seen well. Oriental Magpie-Robin Copsychus saularis: One seen at Casa Roro. White-browed Shama Copsychus luzoniensis: One seen and many heard at Hamut. Black Shama Copsychus saularis: two seen well at Tabunan on Cebu. Pied Bushchat Saxicola caprata: Common in open scrubby country. Blue Rock-Thrush Monticola solitaries: One seen at Mantakil, Negros. Island Thrush Turdus poliocephalus: A number seen along the roads at the PNOC site on Mt Apo. Eye-browed Thrush Turdus obscurus: One seen in tree at Site G on Mt Apo. Brown-headed Thrush Turdus chrysolaus: One seen briefly by Tim on ridge at Hamut. SYLVIIDAE Arctic Warbler Phylloscopus borealis: A common winter visitor. Philippine Leaf-Warbler Phylloscopus olivaceus: Two to three seen at both Rajah Sikatuna NP and Boluno, Zamboanga. Lemon-throated Leaf-Warbler Phylloscopus cebuensis: One seen in mossy forest above Mantakil whilst a number were seen or heard at Hamut. Mountain Leaf-Warbler Phylloscopus trivirgatus: Several seen on Mt Apo. Clamorous Reed-Warbler Acrocephalus stentoreus: One seen at the Malasi lakes. Tawny Grassbird Megalurus timoriensis: Commonly seen in open country and scrubby hillsides 14 Birdquest: Remote Philippines 2008

15 Striated Grassbird Megalurus palustris: Very common in open country. Philippine Tailorbird Orthotomus castaneiceps: Commonly heard in Negros and Hamut. Individuals were seen at Ban-Ban and at Hamut. Rufous-fronted Tailorbird Orthotomus frontalis: One seen well and others heard at Rajah Sikatuna NP. Also heard commonly at Zamboanga. Rufous-headed Tailorbird Orthotomus heterolaemus: Eventually we were able to see two birds well on Mt Apo. Yellow-breasted Tailorbird Orthotomus samarensis: This bird gave us the run around. Very little singing but we were able to see one well at the last minute. White-eared Tailorbird Orthotomus cinereiceps: After considerable effort, most of us got good views of this smart little tailorbird. Bright-capped Cisticola Cisticola exilis: One seen at Mantakil whist others seen on walk from Baliwag to Camp One. Zitting Cisticola Cisticola juncidis: Two seen near Baliwag. Long-tailed Ground Warbler Bradypterus caudatus (H): Heard briefly on Mt Apo. MUSCICAPIDAE Grey-streaked Flycatcher Muscicapa griseisticta: A common wintering flycatcher Ashy-breasted Flycatcher Muscicapa randi: Excellent close views of this very rare flycatcher were seen at Ban-Ban in Negros Oriental. Mugimaki Flycatcher Ficedula mugimaki: One female was seen with feeding flock in Rajah Sikatuna NP. Little Pied Flycatcher Ficedula westermanni: Common on Mt Apo. Blue-breasted Flycatcher Cyornis herioti: A male seen briefly below Camp One at Hamut whist a pair was seen well by all at Camp Two Mangrove Blue Flycatcher Cyornis rufigaster: Four seen in the forest at Tabunan, Cebu. And one at Boluno. Citrine Canary Flycatcher Culicicapa helianthea: Up to three seen at Hamut. MONARCHIDAE Pied Fantail Rhipidura javanica: One near Ban-Ban, Negros Blue Fantail Rhipidura superciliaris: We saw some in mixed flocks at Rajah Sikatuna NP Blue-headed Fantail Rhipidura cyaniceps: This was common at Hamut. We also saw several of the distinct white-bellied race at Mantakil and Ban-Ban, Negros. Black-and-Cinnamon Fantail Rhipidura nigrocinnamomea: At first they were not in the mixed flocks on Mt Apo but later we saw many of this handsome bird. Rufous Paradise Flycatcher Terpsiphone cinnamomea: One or two of us had poor views of these uncooperative birds at Boluno. Black-naped Monarch Hypothymis azurea: A widespread and common bird in the forest. PACHYCEPHALIDAE White-vented Whistler Pachycephala homeyeri: Individuals seen Ban-Ban and Casa Roro, Negros plus one of the race major on Cebu with a noticeably different call was heard. Yellow-bellied Whistler Pachycephala philippensis: Widespread. Seen on Bohol, Hamut, Mt Apo and Zamboanga. MOTACILLIDAE Grey Wagtail Motacilla cinerea: Commonly seen Kamchatka Wagtail Motacilla [flava] simillima: Flocks of thirty or more in open country and paddy fields on Bohol and Malasi Lakes. Paddyfield Pipit Anthus rufulus: Several seen at Sablayan and in the open country between Hamut and Baliwag. 15 Birdquest: Remote Philippines 2008

16 ARTAMIDAE White-breasted Wood-swallow Artamus leucorhynchus: Common and widespread. LANIIDAE Long-tailed Shrike Lanius schach: Very common in the open country between camp 1 and Baliwag. Mountain Shrike Lanius validirostris: As Tim was relegated to the back of the pick-up, he was able to spot one way up the hillside on Mt Apo. Brown Shrike Lanius cristatus: Common everywhere STURNIDAE Short-tailed Glossy Starling Aplonis minor: Small numbers each day on Mt Apo. Asian Glossy Starling Aplonis panayensis: Common in many of the towns and villages. Coleto Sarcops calvus: A widespread bird. Crested Myna Acridotheres cristatellus: Several seen in open country above Baliwag. Apo Myna Basilornis Miranda: This bizarre but splendid starling with its punk hairdo, showed it self well on Mt Apo with close views obtained by all. NECTARINIIDAE Plain-throated Sunbird Anthreptes malacensis: One near Baliwag. Olive-backed Sunbird Nectarinia jugularis: Common and widespread. Purple-throated Sunbird Nectarinia sperata: The red-bellied race seen at Casa Roro, whilst the yellow-bellied race was common at Pasonanca. Grey-hooded Sunbird Aethopyga primigenius: Three birds seen in forest at Pnoc, Mt Apo below Admin centre. Metallic-winged Sunbird Aethopyga pulcherrima: One bird seen by some at Rajah Sikatuna NP. Apo Sunbird Aethopyga boltoni: Excellent views of both female and male at site G on Mt Apo. Lovely Sunbird Aethopyga bella One bird seen around camp One at Hamut. Crimson Sunbird Aethopyga siparaja: Up to eight of this handsome bird seen at Casa Roro with another two at Cebu. Naked-faced Spiderhunter Arachnothera clarae: One bird seen briefly by all perched on top of tree at Boluno. DICAEIDAE Olive-backed Flowerpecker Prionochilus olivaceus: One bird seen above Camp Two at Hamut with another two seen by Tim and Peter L at Boluno. Striped Flowerpecker Dicaeum aeruginosum: One seen well below camp one at Hamut on our walk up. Olive-capped Flowerpecker Dicaeum nigrilore: Four birds in flowering tree at Lake Agco was a nice find by Bernard. Whiskered Flowerpecker Dicaeum proprium: This bird hovers like a hummingbird. Several seen in the forest below Admin centre and around Lake Agco. Bicoloured Flowerpecker Dicaeum bicolor: Several seen at Sablayan and Hamut whilst it was common on Mt Apo particularly around Lake Agco. Red-keeled Flowerpecker Dicaeum australe: Seen or heard at most sites. Visayan Flowerpecker Dicaeum haematostictum: Common at Casa Roro. Scarlet-collared Flowerpecker Dicaeum retrocinctum: Three individuals of this beautiful flowerpecker were seen in the forest at Sablayan. Buzzing Flowerpecker Dicaeum hypoleucum: The attractive black and white race was common at Boluno. Other races present at Hamut and Mt Apo. Orange-bellied Flowerpecker Dicaeum trigonostigma: Common at Boluno. A few individuals seen at Casa Roro, Rajah Sikatuna NP and Mt Apo. Fire-breasted Flowerpecker Dicaeum ignipectus: Several seen on Mt Apo. 16 Birdquest: Remote Philippines 2008