The Philippine Online Chronicles

Davao City is set to host the 1st Asian Bird Fair from September 24 to 26, with the theme "Nurture Nature, Save Our Future.”

“The Asian Bird Fair seeks to enrich eco-tourism through bird-watching, and promote the natural and cultural heritage of host cities,” said Wild Bird Club of the Philippines president Michael Lu.

The event, which is co-sponsored by Philippine Eagle Foundation and the city government of Davao, will be held in conjunction with the 6th Philippine Bird Festival, the country’s premier avian conservation and eco-tourism event.

The fair will also be in time for the annual autumn migration of birds from Japan, China and parts of Siberia. These birds fly towards warmer countries, including the Philippines.

Avian conservation

“This latest initiative would be a significant move to draw attention to pressing conservation issues,” said Alice Villa-Real, one of the event organizers.

The Philippines is home to hundreds of species of birds, many of which are endemic to the country. Some species, like the Philippine Eagle (Pithecophaga jefferyi) and the Luzon Buttonquail or "Pugo" (Turnix worcesteri) have been classified as endangered species.

“We can make a significant difference to protect the rich bird life and habitats of our islands while promoting responsible enjoyment of nature and encouraging related sustainable businesses in local communities,” Villa-Real added.

Participating groups

The event will also serve to highlight the bird fairs held by the major participating groups, including the Bird Conservation of Thailand, the Chinese Wild Bird Federation, the Wild Bird Society of Taipei, the Malaysian Nature Society, and the Nature Society of Singapore.

Also attending are the Shanghai Wild Bird Society, Fujian Bird Watching Society, Kaoshiung Wild Bird Society, Wild Bird Society of Tainan, Hong Kong Bird Watching Society, Eco-education and Resources Center, Asian Raptor Research and Conservation Network, Borneo Bird Club, Hornbill Research Foundation, the Biodiversity and Nature Conservation Association, Bird Conservation Nepal and the Oriental Bird Club.

Locally-based government and environmental groups who will also be participating are Conservation International, Fauna and Flora International, Katala Foundation, WWF-Philippines, Birding Adventure Philippines, Kaakbay, Malagos Garden Resort, Monfort Bat Cave and Conservation Foundation, Philippine Association of Wildlife Veterinarians, Philippine Wild Bird Photographers, My Zoo Foundation, the City of Alaminos and the City of Balanga.

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