Davao City, Philippines – In a stunning discovery, an “Ibong Adarna” or Adarna Bird, known for its mythical significance in Filipino literature, has been sighted in the lush woodlands of Mount Apo. This extraordinary finding has captured the attention of nature enthusiasts and conservationists alike.
The remarkable bird was photographed by Kemuel Libre, a member of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)-Protected Area Management and Biodiversity Conservation Section (PAMBCS) XI, as it gracefully perched on a tree. The captivating images were shared on the official Facebook page of DENR Davao on July 14, 2023, sparking excitement and curiosity among netizens.
The DENR has confirmed that the bird is a female Ibong Adarna, scientifically known as Harpactes ardens or the Philippine Trogon. This species holds great cultural significance in Philippine literature, particularly in the epic tale titled “Korido at Buhay na Pinagdaanan ng Tatlong Prinsipeng Magkakapatid na anak ni Haring Fernando at ni Reyna Valeriana sa Kahariang Berbanya” (Corrido and Life Experiences of the Three Princes, Sons of King Fernando and Queen Valeriana in the Kingdom of Berbanya).
According to the folklore, the Ibong Adarna possesses extraordinary healing powers. In the story, the king falls gravely ill, and his three sons embark on a challenging quest to find the mythical bird. The prince who successfully captures the Ibong Adarna and brings it back to the kingdom will inherit the throne. However, the task is far from simple, as the bird’s melodious song has the ability to lull people to sleep, and its droppings turn everything they touch into stone.
In reality, the Philippine Trogon does not possess magical abilities. These birds primarily feed on insects and fruits, taking shelter in tree hollows and preferring the tranquility of the forest’s darker areas, away from human disturbances.
The female Ibong Adarna exhibits subdued shades of mustard-yellow underparts, complemented by an olive-brown head, while the male counterpart displays more vibrant colors. Their distinctive appearance and mythical association make them a treasure of Philippine biodiversity.
The DENR Davao is urging the public to actively participate in the conservation efforts for the Ibong Adarna, aiming to protect and enhance its population. The recent sighting serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving the unique flora and fauna found in the forests of Mount Apo.
As part of conservation measures, Mount Apo is temporarily closed to trekkers from June to August. This seasonal closure ensures an undisturbed environment for birds and plants during their mating season, fostering their natural reproductive cycles.
The remarkable appearance of the Ibong Adarna in Mount Apo’s forests is a testament to the rich biodiversity of the Philippines. Its sighting is a cause for celebration and serves as a reminder of the need to continue protecting and conserving the country’s natural treasures for generations to come.