𝐃𝐄𝐍𝐑-𝟏𝟐 𝐬𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝟕𝟔 𝐦𝐢𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲 𝐛𝐢𝐫𝐝𝐬 𝐨𝐧 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝 𝐌𝐢𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲 𝐁𝐢𝐫𝐝 𝐃𝐚𝐲

𝐀𝐋𝐀𝐁𝐄𝐋, 𝐒𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐚𝐧𝐢 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐞 - The DENR Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) of Sarangani) and the Protected Area Management Office Sarangani Bay Protected Seascape (PAMO-SBPS) joined hands to mark the World Migratory Bird Day on October 13, 2023 in Barangay Kawas of this town.

A total of 76 migratory birds were sighted and officially identified, representing an impressive diversity of seven (7) distinct species. Notable among these were the Black-winged Stilt (Himantopus- himantopus), Pond Herons (Ardeidae), Osprey (Pandion haliaetus), Common Tern (Sterna hirundo), Sandpiper (Scolopacidae), Common Ringed Plover (Charadrius hiaticula), and Chinese Egret (Egretta eolophotes).

These observations underscored the profound significance of this region as a vital and indispensable stopover for these awe-inspiring avian wanderers.

In addition to birdwatching, the organizing team conducted an informative and engaging information education campaign aimed at selected students from Mindanao State University-General Santos. This campaign offered valuable insights into the importance of migratory bird conservation and their vital ecosystems.

Indeed, the vast majority of migratory birds depend on aquatic ecosystems throughout their life cycles. These ecosystems encompass a diverse range of habitats, such as coastal wetlands, rivers, lakes, streams, and marshes, which serve as essential resources for feeding, drinking, nesting, and as crucial rest stops for refueling during their extensive journeys. As a result, these designated stopover sites hold immense ecological significance in the ongoing efforts to conserve these remarkable migratory birds. ### (With report and photos from PENRO Sarangani)