(Photo courtesy : DENR CAR fbpage)
The Cordillera Administrative Region has recorded a dramatic rise in waterbird populations, with more than 45,000 birds documented during the 2026 Asian Waterbird Census, a development that conservation officials say reflects the improving condition and growing ecological value of wetlands in the region.
The annual census was carried out this January by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources–Cordillera Administrative Region through its Conservation and Development Division and the Protected Area Management and Biodiversity Conservation Section, in coordination with field offices in Apayao, Ifugao, and Kalinga. Survey teams conducted counts in Apayao and Kalinga from January 14 to 15, while census activities in Ifugao ran from January 12 to 15.
Results from this year’s count show a sharp increase from the 29,783 waterbirds recorded in 2025, signaling a strong upward trend in wetland use and biodiversity presence across the Cordillera. Environmental officials said the figures point to more stable habitats, improved food availability, and healthier ecosystems capable of supporting large and diverse bird populations.
In Apayao, surveyors recorded 4,125 waterbirds representing nine species across key wetland sites in Purok 4, Marcela, Bacut Lake, Panay, and Nueva Sta. Marcela. The Intermediate Egret dominated the count with 2,797 individuals, followed by 424 Philippine Ducks. Several non-waterbird species were also noted in surrounding areas, including the Black-naped Oriole and the Pink-necked Green Pigeon, highlighting the role of adjacent terrestrial habitats in sustaining overall avian diversity.
Ifugao emerged as the most bird-abundant province in this year’s census, with all survey sites located in Alfonso Lista. A total of 27,472 birds were recorded, spanning 23 different species. Egrets accounted for the largest share of sightings, underscoring the importance of the province’s wetlands and agricultural landscapes as prime feeding and roosting grounds.
In Kalinga, counts conducted at Bulo Lake and the Cabaritan Fields documented 13,789 waterbirds from 18 species. The findings reinforced the significance of inland lakes and farmlands as critical habitats, particularly during migration and seasonal movements.
Across the three provinces, the combined total exceeded 45,000 waterbirds, reinforcing the Cordillera’s growing role as an important refuge for both resident and migratory species. Among those recorded were the Intermediate, Little, and Great Egrets; Philippine Duck; Purple and Grey Herons; Black-crowned Night Heron; Yellow Bittern; Tufted Duck; Striated Heron; Brahminy Kite; Osprey; Buzzard; Brown-breasted, Collared, and Common Kingfishers; Barn Swallow; Pied Fantail; Wagtail; Common Sandpiper; Terns; Streaked Shearwater; Swiftlet; Pied Bush Chat; Philippine Pygmy Woodpecker; and Black-naped Oriole.
The Asian Waterbird Census is part of the global International Waterbird Census coordinated by Wetlands International. Conducted every January, the program brings together volunteers, conservation groups, and government agencies across Asia and Australasia to track waterbird populations and assess the condition of wetlands. Data gathered through the census support conservation planning, wetland management, and policy formulation at multiple levels.
Waterbirds are widely regarded as reliable indicators of wetland health, as they depend on these ecosystems for feeding, resting, roosting, and breeding. An increase in their numbers is often linked to improved habitat quality and ecological balance.
DENR-CAR said it remains committed to strengthening wetland conservation efforts, expanding biodiversity monitoring, and working closely with local communities to ensure that Cordillera’s wetlands continue to provide vital ecological services and sustain wildlife for generations to come.
