Asian Waterbird Census (AWC) provides the basis for estimates of waterbird populations in a given site. It is a monitoring tool used to determine the distribution and standard counts of birds in wetlands ecosystems.

In observance of the World Wetlands Day 2022, PENRO Cavite thru the Compliance Monitoring Unit (CMU) had conducted the AWC last January 13 – 14, 2022 within the four (4) identified migratory bird sites in Cavite namely: Caylabne Bay Resort in Ternate; Brgy. San Rafael IV in Noveleta; River delta of Imus River in Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit; and Brgy. Mabolo II, Bacoor City. 

A total of 2,654 heads of varying 31 migratory bird species were counted throughout the census which had a 10.76% increase as compared with the previous year’s result. Among the four migratory bird sites, Kawit has the most birds observed, this is mainly due to a vast cover of wetlands that serves as wintering grounds for the migrating birds. 

Wetlands are important bird habitats because birds use them for breeding, nesting, and rearing young. On the other hand, birds are known to be one of nature’s pollinators or seed dispersers that are essential in reforestation. 

Here are some of the threats that may cause adverse impact on our wetlands ecosystems in Cavite;

  1. The continuous building of infrastructures in Brgy. Binakayan and Pulborista, Kawit, Cavite has a great impact on the disappearance of birds on the site;
  2. Domestic sewage and solid wastes generated by the informal settlers and nearby building industries;
  3. Cutting of mangrove trees; and
  4. Bird disturbance due to motorboats used by nearby communities for fishing and for transportation.

Here are some of the initiatives of PENRO Cavite toward wetlands protection and conservation;

  1. Conduct regular clean-up activities to lessen and remove the wastes coming from various sources;
  2. Building partnerships with various organizations and groups and exchanging ideas and concepts to further protect these ecosystems;
  3. Extensive Information Education Campaigns (IEC) towards environmental protection and conservation.

We encouraged the general public to take action and be part of the solution contributory to environmental protection and conservation. Our simple ways of helping the environment could have an extensive ripple effect when we do it consistently. ###

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Parent Category: News & Events
Category: Photo Releases
Published: 04 March 2022