For the first time in more than a hundred years, a sighting of a rare bird species, known as the Chinese crested tern, has excited the bird-watching community in Manila Bay. This species, considered critically endangered and once believed to be extinct, has been dubbed the “bird of legend” by Chinese enthusiasts due to its mythical status until its re-discovery in the wild in 2000.
The bird was captured in photographs by bird watcher Irene Dy, showcasing its distinctive features. According to Dr. Carmela Espanola, an associate professor at the Institute of Biology, UP Diliman, the Chinese crested tern is recognizable by its short crest of upright feathers. During the breeding season, its head turns black, while outside of breeding, its forehead remains white.
The first recorded sighting of the Chinese crested tern in the Philippines dates back to 1886, with its presence in Manila Bay not noted until 1905. Since then, the bird had become elusive, only to be spotted again in Davao in 2018. The recent sighting in Manila Bay has drawn numerous bird watchers to the area, eager to catch a glimpse of this rare species.
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has classified the Chinese crested tern as critically endangered, highlighting the significance of its sighting in Manila Bay. This event not only underscores the importance of ongoing conservation efforts but also brings hope to enthusiasts and researchers dedicated to preserving such rare species.