Table of Contents
Introduction
Imagine cruising through the turquoise waters of Palawan, surrounded by majestic limestone cliffs and lush mangrove forests. The Coron – El Nido route is world-renowned for its hidden lagoons, vibrant coral gardens, and pristine beaches, making it one of the best diving Palawan destinations.
But beyond the breathtaking seascapes and underwater wonders, the journey also offers a chance to encounter one of Palawan’s most vibrant and charming birds—the Collared Kingfisher. With its striking turquoise-blue plumage, white collar, and long sharp bill, this bird adds a burst of color to the lush green landscape.
The Collared Kingfisher is known for its distinctive call and agile hunting skills, diving swiftly to catch fish, insects, and small reptiles. Often seen perched on branches overlooking water, it watches patiently before swooping down to snatch its prey with incredible precision.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to spot the Collared Kingfisher on your Coron – El Nido adventure, the best places to look, and why this bird is a delightful surprise on your journey through the best diving Philippines.
The Ultimate Coron to El Nido Adventure
The Coron – El Nido tour isn’t just about stunning seascapes; it’s a journey of discovery, offering hidden treasures at every turn. From secret lagoons to dense mangrove forests, this route is perfect for birdwatching, snorkeling, and exploring Palawan’s unique ecosystems.
1. Island Hopping and Hidden Lagoons
✔ Begin your journey in Coron, sailing through calm turquoise waters surrounded by towering limestone cliffs.
✔ Explore hidden lagoons accessible only by kayak or swimming.
✔ Snorkel in vibrant coral gardens, discovering colorful fish and marine creatures.
📍 Where to Look for the Collared Kingfisher: Watch for this bird perched on branches overlooking the water, waiting patiently for its next meal. Its bright blue plumage stands out against the green foliage.
2. Mangrove Forests and Coastal Trails
✔ Kayak through dense mangrove tunnels, listening to the sounds of tropical birds.
✔ Walk along coastal trails, exploring diverse habitats from beaches to forest edges.
✔ Visit remote island villages, experiencing local culture and traditions.
📍 Pro Tip: The Collared Kingfisher is often seen in mangrove areas, where it hunts for fish and crustaceans. Listen for its distinctive, sharp calls.
3. Secluded Beaches and Limestone Caves
✔ Relax on secluded beaches perfect for sunbathing or a beach picnic.
✔ Explore limestone caves with ancient stalactites and mystical light beams.
✔ End your journey in El Nido, watching a stunning sunset over Bacuit Bay.
📍 Unforgettable Moment: Capture a photo of the Collared Kingfisher perched against a backdrop of turquoise waters and white sand.
Who is the Collared Kingfisher?
The Collared Kingfisher (Todiramphus chloris) is a vibrant and agile bird found along the coasts, mangroves, and forest edges of Palawan. Known for its striking blue-green plumage and distinctive white collar, it is a favorite among birdwatchers and photographers.
1. Appearance and Unique Features
✔ Bright turquoise-blue upperparts with a white collar and underparts.
✔ Long, sharp bill designed for catching fish and small prey.
✔ Medium-sized, about 23 cm (9 inches) in length.
📍 Fun Fact: The Collared Kingfisher is also known as the “White-collared Kingfisher” due to its distinctive neck marking.
2. Behavior and Hunting Skills
✔ Feeds on fish, crabs, insects, and small reptiles, using its sharp bill to catch prey.
✔ Perches patiently on branches or poles overlooking water, waiting for the perfect moment to dive.
✔ Known for its swift and accurate hunting dives, making it a skilled predator.
📍 Why It’s Special: The Collared Kingfisher is known for its territorial behavior, often defending its feeding area with loud, aggressive calls.
3. Distinctive Call and Communication
✔ Recognized by its sharp, repetitive calls, sounding like “kik-kik-kik” or “chee-chee-chee.”
✔ Uses a variety of calls to communicate territory, alert mates, or signal danger.
✔ Active and vocal, its calls can be heard echoing through the mangroves and coastal forests.
📍 Birdwatcher’s Tip: Learn to identify its distinctive calls to locate it more easily.
Best Places to Spot the Collared Kingfisher
1. Kingfisher Park in Coron
✔ Best for: Guided birdwatching tours and mangrove kayaking.
✔ Why it’s Special: A protected bird sanctuary known for its rich avian diversity, including the Collared Kingfisher.
2. El Nido’s Coastal Trails
✔ Best for: Coastal hikes and photography.
✔ Why it’s Special: Scenic trails along El Nido’s coast offer the perfect vantage points to see Collared Kingfishers hunting along the shore.
3. Mangrove Areas in Bacuit Bay
✔ Best for: Kayaking and nature walks.
✔ Why it’s Special: Dense mangrove forests provide a hunting ground for the Collared Kingfisher, where they catch crabs and fish.
📍 Pro Tip: Visit during low tide, when the kingfishers are most active, hunting along the exposed mudflats.
Conclusion
The Collared Kingfisher is a vibrant and charming bird, adding a burst of color and excitement to your Coron – El Nido adventure. As you explore the hidden lagoons, lush mangroves, and secluded beaches of Palawan, keep an eye out for this agile hunter perched on branches overlooking the water.
With its striking turquoise plumage and sharp hunting skills, spotting the Collared Kingfisher is a delightful surprise that connects you to Palawan’s unique biodiversity. By choosing eco-friendly tours and supporting local conservation efforts, travelers can help protect this beautiful species and preserve Palawan’s natural beauty.
🌴 Ready for an unforgettable adventure? Book your Coron – El Nido tour today and don’t miss the colorful charm of the Collared Kingfisher! 🐦🏝️
