Discipline: Environmental Science, Bio-Diversity
Field surveys were conducted in Pinacanauan de San Pablo Watershed to determine bird species present in the area and to assess its status as affected by human activities. Survey methods include transect walk, point-count, mist-netting, and opportunistic count. A total of eighty five (85) avian species in thirty eight (38) families were identified, of which fifteen (15) species were endemic (30.77% end.). A diversity index greater than three (>3) indicates high species diversity and evenness. As to their conservation status, a bird species known as the Philippine Eagle (Pithecophaga jefferyi), is critically endangered, while one is near-threatened (Buceros hydrocorax), two are vulnerable (Anas luzonica and Prioniturus luconensis), and the rest are of least concern according to the IUCN Red List of 2011. Though faunal species are still diverse, activities such as overhunting for food and pet trade impacts negatively on biodiversity. Other threats to biodiversity were kaingin farming, small-scale logging, and vandalism in cave systems. A proper management system should be formulated and implemented in the watershed area taking into consideration biodiversity conservation.
ISSN 0116-7413 (Print)
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