Over seven thousand islands make up the Philippines, and its wildlife is considered to be truly unique. Almost seventy-seven percent of the amphibians on the islands and sixty-four percent of the land mammals cannot be seen or found anywhere else in the world. When it comes to the bird life on the islands, it was believed that only thirty-one percent of the birds in the Philippines were endemic. Professor David Lohman then took it upon himself to begin a study to find out if some of the bird fauna could deliver distinct bird species that have not been recognized before. He decided to concentrate mainly on seven perching bird species, and by following the genetic lineages of these species, Professor Lohman has been able to determine a distinct history in regard to these bird species. In previous years, taxonomists would identify bird species through the color of their plumage and various markings found on birds, but Professor Lohman has pointed out that this form of identification is not accurate enough, saying: “Those features are not ideal, since closely related but distinct species can look similar.”

Due to the distance between the Philippines and the Asian mainland, it is believed that contact between mainland birds and those on the islands would be minimal, if none at all. By following the evolution of the bird species, Professor Lohman has found that a great number of Philippine populations were unique and not found in various Southeast Asia regions. “These unique genetic lineages were unknown before, however, our research hasn’t gone far enough to say these are new species”, explained Lohman, continuing by adding that “more rigorous analysis of the morphology may be needed to make that determination.”

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If you are going to be traveling, you may find it useful to purchase a handbook of the birds of the world. Some of the most fascinating bird species live in Australia and New Zealand. The emu is the second largest bird in the world (the largest is the ostrich). These flightless birds are nomadic, feeding on grains, fruits, insects and whatever else is available as they travel. They are able to run at speeds of 50 km/h. Folklore states that Emus have the ability to detect rain from hundreds of miles away.

The kiwi bird of New Zealand differs from other birds of the world in that its nostrils are at the end of the beak and proportionally it lays the largest egg in relation to its body. It can be compared to a chicken laying an ostrich egg.

The world’s smallest bird is the bee hummingbird from Cuba. It is only 2.5 inches in length (6.2 cm) and weighs a mere 0.06 oz (1.6 g).

On the other hand the largest bird in the world is the ostrich. The ostrich is indigenous in Africa, however it is farmed throughout the world. It reaches 9 ft (2.7 m) in height and its eggs weigh in at about 3 pounds (1400 g).

Another interesting creature in the avian world is the Gentoo penguin. This flightless bird is the fastest swimming bird in the world. Their primary colony is on the Falklands.

Certain of world’s birds are endemic. This means that they are found only in that specific area. For example the helmeted woodpecker, black-fronted piping-guan and russet winged spadebill are endemic to the Atlantic forest. Endemic to the Nicobar Islands of India are the Nicobar sparrowhawk, Andaman cuckoo-dove, white-headed starling and Nicobar Megapode.

From the world’s smallest bird to the largest, from the fastest in air to the fastest in water, they are all fascinating and worthy of our attention.

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Recent research reveals that the New Zealand bellbird is able to change its nesting behavior if necessary in order to protect itself from predators. The finding is of massive importance since the introduction of alien predators has been a threat that shore birds have had to face for many years. Often this usually unintentional phenomenon results in the extinction of a number of endemic bird species and some 25 percent of all endangered species continue to be under threat from exotic predators.

The research was lead by Dr Melanie Massaro and Dr Jim Briskie who work for the University of Canterbury. Massaro feels that the impact of exotic predators is particularly noticeable on birds that are native to oceanic islands, chalking this phenomenon down to evolutionary concepts and the fact that the birds seem to be particularly naive about the dangers posed by these new animals. However, it would seem that the situation is not quite as dire as previously thought. After studying the bellbird, a species which is endemic to New Zealand, the researchers found that this previously naive bird was soon able to adapt its nesting habits in response to the threat that was posed by large numbers of exotic predators that had been introduced by humans. The birds were studied in high risk (predators a constant threat), recent low risk (the predators recently removed) and permanent low risk (predators never introduced) areas and it was found that females spent more time on the nest where there was an increased risk of predation. This defensive behavior minimized predator activity at the nesting site and decreased the risk of egg predation.

Over the centuries the introduction of a number of predatory or opportunistic mammals, such as rats, stoats and cats, has led to the extinction of a number of endemic island birds. However these new findings show that quite a few birds have at least a limited capacity to fight back. The marked increase in parental activity during the nesting period greatly reduced the risk of a predator destroying the nest. This shows that the birds are not trapped in a particular mode of behavior, but rather that they are able to adapt their routines in ways which are greatly beneficial to their young. Previously it was thought that this sort of change would take centuries occur, but instead it seems that these changes took place over a matter of only a few years. It is hoped that the new finding could help conservationists to encourage birds to respond to exotic predators and so help ensure their own survival – especially in such cases where these predators cannot be eliminated.

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Not many people think of taking a birding trip to Taiwan, but this interesting country is home to a wide variety of bird species. Situated on the western edge of the Pacific Ocean, Taiwan is about 400 km long and 150 km wide. It features about 1000 km of coastline, a dense and scenic mountain range that rises to 3 998 m at its highest point and wide fertile agricultural plains. This is the perfect place to combine birding with culture, history and natural beauty.

Though birds can be found in much of the countryside, it is the wetland area of the west coast that is the best place to look for them. Here you will find literally thousands of north-south migrant water birds who stop over or winter in Taiwan. The numerous uninhabited islets that can be found off shore attract still more birds and a number of pelagic species roost and nest here. Another place where you will likely find some birds is in the mountains. While the mountains may be capped in snow during the winter months they can be quite hot and humid during summer, and cool and wet the rest of the time.

So exactly how many birds will you find on this large and colorful island? Thus far there have been approximately 550 bird species recorded on or around the island of Taiwan. Of these, 15 species and 70 subspecies are endemic. Birders can expect to see a number of rare and interesting species such as the Chinese Egret (Egretta eulophotes), the Black-faced Spoonbill (Platalea minor), the Chinese Crested Tern (Sterna bernsteini), Saunder’s Gull (Larus saundersi), the Fairy Pitta (Pitta nympha) and the Malayan Night Heron (Gorsachius melanolophus).

Taiwan is a well-developed country with a wide range of accommodation to suit different tastes and budgets. You can easily hire a car to get around in and food is plentiful. If you do plan to make your own way around the country, it is wise to purchase a good map before setting off for this country. You might also want to purchase a field guide to ensure that you make the most of your time spent here. October to March is generally considered to be the best time of year for bird watching, but other interesting species can be seen during the rest of the year, so when you choose to visit really depends on what you are hoping to see. No matter what time of the year you visit, you should remember that a few days of bird watching might be lost to poor weather. So pack in warm clothes, a good pair of binoculars and a sense of adventure and head off for Taiwan for some excellent birding!

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The American Bird Conservancy, Conservation International and Fundacion ProAves serve as joint custodians of the El Dorado Bird Reserve situated in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountain range of northern Colombia. These custodians have successfully halted a holiday home development in the area, which would have proven devastating to the prolific bird life, including 21 endemic species, as well as migratory songbirds from the United States.

Situated in dense forests between 2,900 and 8,500 feet above sea level, the El Dorado Bird Reserve is a veritable birding paradise. The Jeniam Ecolodge and the Blue Moon Restaurant within the reserve are managed with the emphasis on eco-tourism and are virtually self-sustaining. From within the reserve visitors have spectacular views of the 19,000 foot high peaks and glaciers of the majestic Sierra Nevada mountain range stretching up towards the sky, as well as the sparkling beaches of the Caribbean below.

Over a hundred years of exploration and cataloguing of the bird life in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta confirms that there are numerous rare bird species which are restricted to the forests in and around the El Dorado Bird Reserve, with more still being discovered. For example, in 2007 a new species of owl was identified, which has since been named the Santa Marta Screech Owl. Also, research reveals that several of the endemic species of birds in the reserve should have separate species status – an issue which authorities are addressing.

The El Dorado Bird Reserve is a vital stopover habitat for the dwindling numbers of neo-tropical migratory birds that breed in Canada and the United States, including the Golden-winged Warblers and Cerulean Warblers. Also, the endangered species such as the Santa Marta Parakeet are only found in the reserve. In addition to the diverse bird-life, the El Dorado Bird Reserve is home to endemic amphibians, plants and butterflies.

The three joint custodians of the El Dorado Bird Reserve are included in the 55 member Alliance for Zero Extinction, which has identified 595 sites around the world containing the last habitat for one or more species of mammal, bird, reptile, amphibian and plant which are considered to be endangered. The Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, which includes the El Dorado Bird Reserve, is listed as one of the most vital sites to be protected.

When bird watchers visit the El Dorado Bird Reserve to enjoy the resplendent bird life, they come to appreciate the enormous effort that is being made to preserve this Colombian treasure trove of natural wonders for future generations.

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The Republic of Cuba is an archipelago of islands in the Caribbean Sea. Consisting of the main island (named Cuba) surrounded by four main groups of islands, Cuba has about 350 species of birds, including more than 30 endemic species. Add to this the temperate climate and friendly people and it is easy to see why Cuba is a popular birding destination. There are numerous prime birding locations and many tour operators offering birding tours.

Playa Larga is a key birding area in Cuba, containing the largest number of the country’s endemic species. It is situated on the Bay of Pigs about 180 kilometers south-east of the capital city of Havana. Experienced birders suggest making use of the services of a local guide as the area is vast and the best bird watching spots are along unmarked forest tracks around the villages of Pálpite and Soplillar. Birders can plan to spend up to three days in this area in order to see the majority of its feathered inhabitants, including the Bee Hummingbird, Fernandina’s Flicker, Stygian Owl, Bare-legged Owl, Gundlach’s Hawk, Gray-headed Quail-Dove, Cuban Red-shouldered Blackbird, Zapata Rail and Cuban Nightjar.

Another prime birding area is Soroa, situated about an hour’s drive west of Havana. There is a hotel situated about 100 meters from the forest walking trail that leads to a magnificent look-out point. Bird watchers can expect to see Ruddy Duck, Great Lizard-cuckoo, Cuban Trogon, Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, Cuban Woodpecker, Cuban Solitaire and Blue-headed Quail-dove. The lookout point at Soroa can also be reached on horse back, which is an adventure in itself.

The island of Cayo Coco is linked by a long causeway to the north coast mainland of Cuba and was previously only visited by fishermen – including Ernest Hemingway. Nowadays, Cayo Coco is being developed for tourism and it is a good birding spot, especially during migration seasons, although there is plenty to see all year round. An endemic subspecies of the Thick-billed Vireo is found exclusively on Cayo Coco. Other rarities to look out for include Mangrove Cuckoo, Bahama Mockingbird, Clapper Rail, Key West Quail-dove, Zapata Sparrow and Red-breasted Merganser. There are also large flocks of Caribbean Flamingos and various herons and waders that enjoy the waters of the area.

Other excellent birding spots in Cuba include the La Guira National Park, Sierra de Najasa, Zapata Swamp and Playa Giron. There is little doubt that Cuba has much to offer, especially in the way of natural beauty and can truly be considered as a bird watcher’s paradise.

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Bird watching in Peru is an unbeatable experience and one that will leave even the most seasoned bird watcher awestruck. Peru is the destination of choice for many international birders, and for good reason. Peru is home to 120 endemic species of birds, with no fewer than 42 new species being recorded in the past 30 years. Over 1,800 bird species have been recorded to date – including the endemic species – and researchers believe that the list will continue to grow as they explore new areas.

Of the 104 different life zones that have been identified throughout the world, 84 occur in Peru. This land of contrasts – from dry forest and desert areas found at the coast to the various forests in the lowlands along the Amazon and the majestic snow-capped Andes Mountains – supports abundant, and often unique, flora and fauna. Some of the species that bird watchers exploring Peru can expect to encounter include 127 species of hummingbirds, 135 species of tanagers, 120 species of ovenbirds, 107 species of typical antbirds, 254 species of tyrant-flycatchers, 50 species of parrots and macaws.

Appreciating the natural treasures that exist in Peru, the authorities have established approximately 13% of the country as protected areas. These protected areas form a network of 58 reserves and sanctuaries. Environmental awareness is continually being promoted in Peru, with the result being that rivers and streams are being cleaned up and coastal lagoons are being reclaimed. An example of the benefits of these efforts can be seen in the Chaparri Ecological Reserve, which was established by the community of Santa Catalina de Chongoyape. This protected dry forest area has become home to a species of bird that was long thought to be extinct, the white-winged guan.

Serious birders that go to the effort of negotiating their way through a bog located at 14,000 feet in the Andes are likely to be rewarded with by sighting a rare white-bellied cinclodes – an exciting prospect, bearing in mind that researchers believe there are only 28 of these birds in the world. Patient bird watchers visiting the area of Cordillera Azul should look out for the rare and recently discovered scarlet-banded barbet. Migratory birds from as far away as Patagonia and the North Pole use areas of Peru as a stop-over or to spend the summer months. This proves to be an added bonus for bird watchers, as they stand a good chance of seeing additional bird species that are temporary residents.

The spectacle of a multitude of colorful noisy birds flitting from tree to tree, or a majestic Andean condor soaring overhead defies description, and the choice of where to go and what to see can be a difficult one. Certainly bird watching in Peru is never boring and is a rewarding way for any birder to spend their time.

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The two species of oxpecker which make up the family Buphagidae are endemic to sub-Saharan Africa. The yellow-billed oxpecker (Buphagus africanus) is slightly larger and more widely found than its red-billed cousin (Buphagus erythrorhynchus) which is generally only found in the eastern part of sub-Saharan Africa.

Oxpeckers are medium-sized birds which some ornithologists regard as a subfamily of starlings (Sturnidae). Their plumage is light brown with the most prominent distinguishing factor between the two species being the color of their bills. They lay two or three eggs in their nests in holes or the hollows of trees and use hair plucked from their hosts to line their nests. Open country is the habitat of choice for these gregarious, insect eating birds.

The oxpecker’s name, both English and scientific, is derived from their feeding habits. Oxpeckers perch on large mammals, wild and domestic, and eat parasites such as ticks and botfly larvae which lodge in mammalian skin. Many consider this to be a symbiotic relationship where both parties benefit. The bird gets food and the animal gets rid of its parasites. However, the favorite food of an oxpecker is blood and, although they eat blood filled ticks, they also peck at their hosts wounds thereby feeding directly on the animal’s blood and encouraging more parasites to settle on the animal. The relationship between the bird and its host is therefore to some extent parasitic in nature.

Red-billed oxpeckers use a scissoring motion to search through the hair of their hosts and they are often seen working through the manes of a giraffe in this manner. Yellow-billed oxpeckers, on the other hand, use a pecking motion, possibly because their bills are thicker and less dexterous. They favor short-haired animals such as buffalo and rhino. Oxpeckers are often observed working deep inside the ears of animals in search of food, a habit which most animals seem to tolerate.

In the early 1900s, oxpeckers were considered to be extinct as a breeding species in South Africa. The over-hunting of buffalo and rhino, as well as arsenic dipping of domestic cattle was possibly to blame for this situation. The re-introduction of oxpeckers into the Kruger National Park has resulted in breeding colonies spreading. As a result, the oxpecker has been moved from being listed as extinct, to vulnerable.

Certainly the oxpecker seems to be somewhat of a mixed blessing to its host, with the benefits of having parasites removed by the bird, generally outweighing the bird’s own parasitic behavior.

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