In a remarkable event, the greater white-fronted goose, a species seldom seen in the region, was observed for the first time at Paoay Lake National Park in Ilocos Norte. The discovery was made this week and confirmed by Rhoel Marcelo, an ecosystem management specialist with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in Ilocos Norte, during their annual bird census. The rare bird was photographed by Cecil Morella, a member of the Wild Bird Club of the Philippines, who documented the sighting at Paoay Lake in January. Marcelo highlighted the significance of this event, noting that it was the first time the species had been recorded at this location. Previously, sightings of the greater white-fronted goose were reported in Batanes, Candaba in Pampanga, and Canarem in Tarlac. These geese typically breed in tundra areas and migrate to wetlands, lakes, and fields. Marcelo also reported a significant increase in bird species at Paoay Lake, with the number of birds rising to 3,972 in January 2025 from 2,202 the previous year, representing 22 species. Common visitors to the lake include the Little Grebe, Great Egret, Philippine Duck, and Common Kingfisher. As the annual bird migration season approaches, the Biodiversity Management Bureau of the DENR is encouraging the public to contribute to the protection of these migratory birds. It is illegal to hunt wildlife, including birds, under Republic Act 9147, the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act. Additionally, the public is advised against handling wild birds, especially if they are found dead, to avoid the spread of avian influenza.
