Avifaunal Diversity in Bulosao Watershed Forest Reserve Lawaan, Eastern Samar, Philippines

Abstract

Bulosao Watershed Forest Reserve is regarded as one of the most important areas in terms of biodiversity in the island of Samar and within the greater Mindanao faunal region. Four study sites representing different habitat types, elevation range and degree of human disturbance were surveyed for their faunal composition. Standard faunal survey methods such as transect survey was used during the entire duration of the study. The methods were augmented with observations and ethnobiological interviews. A total of 41 species of birds belonging to 12 orders, 25 families and 35 genera were recorded. Of these, twelve (29%) are endemic to the Philippines and one to the greater Mindanao faunal region. Among avian species, sixteen (40%) are considered threatened or at risk. Major threats birds and other wildlife populations in the reserve include hunting and habitat alteration. Hunting among the local community is not only for subsistence but also for commercial purposes. Major activities leading to habitat destruction include conversion of logged-over areas into cultivation, illegal logging and indiscriminate collection of other forest products.