Georeferencing and characterization of nesting trees of commonly traded wild birds (Blue-naped Parrot Tanygnathus lucionensis and Hill Myna Gracula religiosa) in Talakaigan Watershed Aborlan, Palawan, Philippines

Abstract

Forest degradation endangers the survival of nesting trees in the wild. Despite this threat, the nesting trees that support the commonly traded birds in Talakaigan Forest are not well documented. Hence, the study was conducted to provide information on the characteristics, species composition and geographical distribution of nesting trees. The study was participated by the indigenous Tagbanua bird poachers in the area. Preliminary information was obtained using key informant interview and focused group discussion. Appropriate parabiology training was conducted to equip the participants with practical skills needed in the data gathering. The study unfolded that there were only two species of birds commonly poached in the watershed, the Tanygnathus lucionensis and Gracula religiosa. These birds nest only on four species of trees which typically towers above the canopy layer. Remarkably, more than 60% of the recorded nesting trees belong to a single species of tree, the Koompassia excelsa. The GIS analysis unveiled that most nesting trees were located in the interior part of the forest. The skill needed to venture into the jungle highlights the role of Tagbanua Tribesmen in the poaching activity in the area. The study recommends an education campaign, enforcement of relevant environmental laws as well as conservation activities focusing on both the nest trees and the poached bird species to be implemented in the area.