Birdwatching takes flight at La Mesa Ecopark
Among the endemic bird species recorded to be seen at the La Mesa Ecopark is the Philippine Eagle-Owl, recognized as one of the largest owls in the Philippines. In partnership with the Wild Bird Club of the Philippines, La Mesa Ecopark is inviting the public to join its regular birdwatching activities which aim to bring the Park’s rich biodiversity out in the open, out in the wild, where they are observed in their natural habitats.
MANILA, Philippines – Bird enthusiasts and nature lovers have a new reason to flock to La Mesa Ecopark (LME), as the ecological sanctuary emerges as one of Metro Manila’s urban birdwatching destinations.
In partnership with the Wild Bird Club of the Philippines, La Mesa Ecopark is conducting regular birdwatching activities which aim to bring the Park’s rich biodiversity out in the open, out in the wild, where they are observed in their natural habitats.
Nestled within the La Mesa Watershed, LME is home to over fifty-three (53) bird species, including several Philippine endemics and migratory visitors.
La Mesa Ecopark bird watching
From the vibrant Philippine Hanging Parrot to the elusive Ashy Thrush, La Mesa Ecopark offers a rare opportunity to observe some of the country’s most fascinating avian species just minutes away from the city center.
Among the endemic bird species recorded to be seen in La Mesa Ecopark is the Philippine Eagle-Owl, recognized as one of the largest owls in the Philippines. This nocturnal bird is currently classified as “Vulnerable” due to ongoing habitat loss and population decline, with an estimated 1,000 to 9,999 remaining in the wild nationwide. Also, the owl is one of those famously sought by birders, both local and international in birding hotspots such as La Mesa.
The Philippine Hanging Parrot, also known as “kulasisi”, is another bird species native in the Philippines. These small, vibrant parrots are predominantly green, with varying patches of red, orange, yellow, and blue depending on the subspecies—some of which are considered rare or nearing extinction. Their natural habitats include tropical moist lowland forests, bamboo groves, and montane forests, where they typically dwell in the forest canopy.
The Ashy Thrush is another vulnerable bird species that is regularly spotted in LME. It is a medium-sized, ground-dwelling bird known for its distinctive feathers and inhabits in tropical moist lowland and montane forests.
The Park’s medley of habitats—including secondary forests, open clearings, and freshwater ecosystems—supports a rich diversity of birdlife, making it an ideal site for recreational birdwatching. For the LME management, awareness for environmental protection always begins with appreciation.
“Once the public starts to appreciate what nature offers, our awareness to protect those species heightens. And that heightened awareness can lead to call-to-actions and environmental stewardship.” says Murphy Amparo, Operations Manager of La Mesa Ecopark.
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The LME management is encouraging the public to participate in its upcoming birdwatching activity on May 25, 2025, Sunday. Participants simply need to register and donate P500 which includes a tour and use of binoculars. Visitors are encouraged to observe ethical birdwatching practices, such as minimizing disturbance to wildlife and staying on designated trails, to help preserve the park’s ecological integrity.
For more details, interested participants can check out La Mesa Ecopark’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/lamesaecopark.
