Philippine Trogon (Harpactes ardens) also known as “Ibong Adarna” have been spotted by in the tropical forest of Mount Apo in Davao. Photos of the elusive bird was shared by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in Davao region, on their official twitter account (@DENROfficial). Photos was taken by Kemuel Libre of DENR-Protected Area Management and Biodiversity Conservation Section (PAMBCS) XI.

The Philippine Trogon with the scientificc name of Harpactes ardens, is an elusive, long-tailed avian endemic in the country or can only be found in the Philippines. Because of its plumage and colors, the bird has been associated with the mythical Ibong Adarna from Filipino epic poems in the 16th-century.

The female “Ibong Adarna” will have shades of mustard-yellow underparts and an olive-brown head. Males on the other hand, will have show bright colors. They feed on insects and fruits and shelters on tree hollows. Being reluctant to people, they found bliss in the darker portions of our forests.