PHILIPPINES - Mount Apo Natural Park

"The 64,053.00 hectares Mount Apo Natural Park is dominated by the highest mountain in the Philippine archipelago, the majestic Mt. Apo, a volcanic mountain rising to 3,143.6 meters above sea level. Mt Apo hosts five (5) distinct forest formations, from lowland forest to low montane forest, high montane forest and finally to summit or scrub forest. In addition to variations in its topography, interactions of other factors, such as, climate, soil, geology, slope and drainage have allowed for the development of a wide diversity in plant community types and associations in the region.

The property is the habitat of a total of 227 vertebrate species belonging to 59 families of amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals. Likewise, 118 species of butterflies belonging to 69 families are recorded in the area. There are 272 species of birds, wherein 111 (40%) are endemic to Mount Apo and 2 species are in the critical list. One endemic but critically endangered bird species is Pithecophaga jefferyi (Philippine Eagle) whose remaining population is believed to be only around 500. The Philippine eagle is of outstanding universal value for science and conservation, whose nesting and feeding areas are located in dipterocarp forests including closed canopy forests. It is the second largest eagle in the world. The aviator Charles Lindbergh, as representative of the World Wildlife Fund, proclaimed it as "the air's noblest flyer." The Philippine eagle is the nation's symbol and is locally known as "haribon" or bird king. With a wingspan of two meters, this bird of prey boasts the largest surface area in its wings among all eagle species. Like the giant panda of the Sichuan Giant Panda Sanctuary, recently inscribed as a World Heritage Site at the 30th Session of the World Heritage Committee in Vilnius last July, the Philippine eagle is a wonder of nature of great charisma. This bird is not found elsewhere in the world and has become the symbol of Philippine conservation efforts. Widespread destruction of its habitat and collection is driving this species to extinction.  Another endemic bird species in the critical list is Cacatua heamatopygia (Abukay)." -http://whc.unesco.org

A postcard I bought in Davao, Philippines during our 2013 family vacation which I sent for my kids (ages 2 and 6) back home so they'll be able to read one day some of the activities we had during our trip.

PHOTOS

Visiting the Japanese Tunnel

At the SUL Orchids Center

  

My kids at the Philippine Eagle Center