Species Finder

Birding in a new country can often feel intimidating. Finding out which species are targetable, which ones require specialized tours to find, and which ones are flat-out impossible to see (within a single trip at least) can be a daunting task—especially for a country like the Philippines, which has over 270 endemics. To lower the barrier to entry to Philippine birding, I've written some short articles on my country's most sought-after species, how to find them, and everything else you need to know about these top targets.

Endemic Species Hub

An exhaustive list of all the endemic (and near-endemic) species of the Philippines. If you just want to know what you can't find anywhere else in the world, this is the best place to start!

Philippine Eagle

The crown jewel of Philippine birding! Learn more about the world's largest, most majestic eagle and how to find it.

Bleeding-hearts

This iconic set of birds actually includes 5 species, none of which are easy to see. Check your chances of seeing them here!

Celestial Monarch

Famously the cover of the Birds of the Philippines guide book. This is one of my most popular tour targets—for good reason!

Kingfishers

Kingfishers are fan favorite of many birders visiting the Philippines. We are blessed to have 15 species of kingfishers, most of which are endemic! Check them out here and learn where to find them.

Palawan Peacock-Pheasant

Arguably the most beautiful peacock-pheasant in the world. Once extremely difficult to see, it is now quite reliable in Palawan.

Hornbills

The Philippines is home to 11 endemic hornbill species, the most of any country in the world! While some are common sights in nearby parks, others are close to impossible to reach.

Whiskered Pitta

Famously the cover of the Birds of the Philippines guide book. This is one of my most popular tour targets—for good reason!