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The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), through CENRO Calanasan, recorded an increase in waterbird populations during the 2026 Asian Waterbird Census (AWC) conducted in wetland areas of Santa Marcela on January 15, in partnership with DENR-CAR, PENRO Apayao, and the municipal local government.
Census results showed a total of 4,125 waterbirds, an increase from 1,169 recorded in 2025. Surveyed sites included Bacut Lake, Tacang SWIP, and marshlands in Barangays Marcela, Nueva, and Panay.
The most frequently recorded species were the Intermediate Egret, Little Egret, and Philippine Duck. Other species observed during the census included the Black-crowned Night Heron, Purple Heron, Yellow Bittern, various kingfisher species, Black-naped Oriole, Pink-necked Green Pigeon, Yellow-vented Bulbul, Philippine Bulbul, Australasian Grass Owl, Long-tailed Shrike, and Crested Mynah.
DENR noted that the results highlight the ecological value of Santa Marcela’s wetlands as important habitats for both migratory and resident bird species and underscore the need for continued protection of these areas.
DENR said it will continue biodiversity monitoring and wetland protection efforts in coordination with local government units and communities to help sustain these habitats.
