Migratory birds flock to Southern Mindanao

DAVAO CITY, Philippines – Thousands of migratory birds have found their way to this part of the world, attracting the attention of residents in Calinan district where they perch on high structures and power cables.

Aside from those found in Calinan district, migratory birds also frequent the swampy areas in Carmen, Davao del Norte; the Malalag Bay in Davao del Sur; and Banaybanay in Davao Oriental.

Last year, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and its attached agency, the Protected Areas and Wildlife Bureau, said 13,404 migratory birds flocked to Southern Mindanao, compared to only 7,836 the previous year. 

The migratory birds in Calinan district have reportedly stayed in the vicinity of Villafuerte and Magsaysay streets since last November.

Authorities are still studying the species of the birds in Calinan district, although some say they could be barn swallows. 

Barn swallows reportedly breed in North America, Africa, Eurasia, Taiwan, and in parts of Indonesia, Vietnam and India. 

These birds migrate due to extreme weather conditions in their habitats. 

The DENR warns the public not to kill or harm the birds, otherwise they face charges for violating Republic Act 9147 or the Wildlife Resource Conservation and Protection Act.

Sources said these birds probably do not carry the bird flu virus because they did not pass through China.