The Makiling Botanic Gardens (MBG) highlights the Ferruginous Flycatcher (Muscicapa ferruginea (Hodgson, 1845)) as its Wildlife of the Month for August 2026. Belonging to the family Muscicapidae, this small to medium-sized bird is a migratory songbird known for its aerial hunting habits. Physical Appearance & Features The Ferruginous Flycatcher is…
The Makiling Botanic Gardens (MBG) highlights the Yellow-breasted Fruit-Dove (Ramphiculus occipitalis) as the Wildlife of the Month for July 2026. This vibrant species is a medium-sized arboreal pigeon known for its striking coloration and tree-dwelling habits. Physical Appearance & Features Despite its eye-catching colors, the Yellow-breasted Fruit-Dove relies on its…
If you have recently walked along the shaded stream corridors of the Mount Makiling Forest Reserve, you might have caught a glimpse of a tiny, shimmering gem darting over the water. Meet the Jewel Damselfly (Rhinocypha colorata), also known as the Colorful Flutterer—Makiling Botanic Garden’s featured Wildlife of the Month!…
The Mount Makiling Forest Reserve ASEAN Heritage Park is home to an incredible array of biodiversity. For the month of May 2026, the Makiling Center for Mountain Ecosystems (MCME) is proud to spotlight a small but vital avian resident of our forest canopy: the Red-Keeled Flowerpecker (Dicaeum australe). If you’ve…
With its rich chestnut-brown head, breast, and underparts contrasting beautifully against bright blue wings and back, the Brown-breasted Kingfisher (Halcyon gularis) is a medium-sized bird that stands out in the Philippine landscape. Its large red bill adds a striking accent to this colorful combination. A Versatile Hunter The Brown-breasted Kingfisher…
With a wingspan of 120-140 mm, the Scarlet Mormon (Papilio rumanzovia) is a large, striking butterfly that commands attention wherever it appears. This species is known for its strong, deliberate flight as it moves through forests and gardens across the Philippines. A Tale of Two Sexes The Scarlet Mormon displays…