Assistance needed

[tal0301]

Dear Fellow Photographers.

I'm an amateur photographer who will be arriving to the Philippines in one month. My main goal is to capture and see some new exciting species of wildlife (birds and Mammals).

I will appreciate any assistance in picking spots which can be interesting and suitable for finding birds. I'm looking for more isolated areas without to many people, but closer to a lodge or a place to spend the night at.

I appreciate any assistance given. all of your pictures here are truly amazing and I can wait to witness the live beautiful birds of the Philippines in my own eyes.

Thank you,
Tal Hanoch

[Ramon Quisumbing]

Hi Tal,

The most convenient place to see montane birds is Bangkong Kahoy Valley in Mt. Banahaw, Quezon, which is about 2 hours drive from Manila. You can rent a large room with all amenities at the BK Mountain Lodge or a rustic cottage at Bangkong Kahoy Campground. The birding is all around and up the mountain. The area is private and secure with only a few people, and the air is cool (18 degrees at night) and the forest is beautiful. Hardly any mosquitoes.

For lowland forest birds, I suggest Subic, which is about 2-3 hours drive from Manila. Lots of hotels and inns there.

For waterbirds, I suggest Candaba Swamp, which is 1-1/2 hours from Manila. I don't know about hotels there.

For more exotic and plentiful birds, I highly recommend Capayas Creek Bird Preserve in Coron, Palawan (1 hour flight from Manila). The new Italian-owned La Natura Resort is very convenient, only 200 meters away. Very nice cottages and great Italian food in a beautiful, riverside forest setting.

Happy birding!

Ramon

[tal0301]

Dear Ramon,

Thank you very much for the detailed answer. Your assistance is much appreciated. I promise to dictate to you the pics taken in those spots :-)

Have a nice day,
Tal