Table of Contents
Introduction
Imagine gliding across the turquoise waters of Palawan, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and dense, vibrant jungles. The Coron to El Nido route is world-famous for its hidden lagoons, pristine beaches, and vibrant coral reefs, making it a dream destination for adventurers and nature lovers alike. But beyond the breathtaking landscapes and the best diving Philippines has to offer, this journey hides a secret—a chance to spot the elusive Palawan Thrush.
Endemic to Palawan, the Palawan Thrush is one of the rarest and most mysterious birds in the Philippines. Known for its shy behavior and secretive nature, this bird is rarely seen, spending most of its time hidden in the dense forest undergrowth. With its rich brown plumage, pale throat, and striking white eye-ring, the Palawan Thrush is a true gem of the jungle.
The thrill of spotting this bird is unmatched. Its soft, melodic calls echo through the forest, guiding patient birdwatchers to its hidden perch. But seeing one isn’t easy—it requires patience, sharp eyes, and a bit of luck.
In this guide, we’ll take you on an immersive journey along the Coron – El Nido tour, showing you how to spot the Palawan Thrush, the best places to look, and why this adventure is about more than just island-hopping and diving.
An Unforgettable Adventure: Coron to El Nido Tour
The Coron – El Nido tour is a 3-day, 2-night expedition, combining the thrill of island-hopping with the serenity of nature exploration. From hidden lagoons to lush jungle trails, this journey immerses you in Palawan’s breathtaking landscapes and vibrant ecosystems.
1. Day 1: Hidden Lagoons and Limestone Cliffs
✔ Begin your adventure in Coron, navigating through turquoise waters surrounded by towering limestone cliffs.
✔ Explore secret lagoons, only accessible by kayak or swimming, where tranquility and beauty converge.
✔ Snorkel vibrant coral gardens, discovering colorful fish and marine creatures.
📍 Where to Look for the Palawan Thrush: As you kayak through the lagoons, watch the shaded forest edges. The Palawan Thrush is known to forage on the forest floor, searching for insects among the leaf litter. Its brown plumage blends seamlessly with the undergrowth, so sharp eyes and patience are key.
2. Day 2: Jungle Treks and Birdwatching
✔ Wake up to the sounds of tropical birds and the gentle rustling of leaves.
✔ Trek through dense jungle trails, guided by local experts who know the best birdwatching spots.
✔ Visit remote island villages, experiencing the warmth of local hospitality.
✔ Dive into coral gardens, exploring vibrant marine life at some of the best diving sites.
📍 Magical Moment: As you hike through the jungle trails, listen for the soft, melodious call of the Palawan Thrush. This shy bird prefers the quiet shade of dense undergrowth, where it moves stealthily, foraging for insects and fruits.
3. Day 3: Secluded Beaches and Sunset Views
✔ Relax on hidden beaches, feeling the white sand between your toes.
✔ Explore secret caves with ancient stalactites and mystical light beams.
✔ End your journey in El Nido, watching a mesmerizing sunset over Bacuit Bay.
📍 Unforgettable Experience: As the sun sets and the air cools, the Palawan Thrush becomes more active, emerging from the shadows to sing its melodic evening call.
Who is the Palawan Thrush?
The Palawan Thrush (Turdus palawanensis) is a shy, secretive bird found only in the dense forests of Palawan. Known for its melodic calls and elusive nature, it is a challenge to spot but a true reward for patient birdwatchers.
1. Appearance and Unique Features
✔ Rich brown plumage with a pale throat and striking white eye-ring.
✔ Medium-sized, with a slender body and long tail.
✔ Camouflaged in the undergrowth, blending perfectly with the forest floor.
📍 Fun Fact: Despite its shy nature, the Palawan Thrush has a beautiful, flute-like song that echoes through the jungle.
2. Behavior and Diet
✔ Feeds on insects, small invertebrates, and fruits, searching among leaf litter on the forest floor.
✔ Often seen alone or in pairs, moving quietly and stealthily.
✔ Shy and elusive, it rarely ventures into open areas, preferring dense, shaded undergrowth.
📍 Why It’s Special: The Palawan Thrush is endemic to Palawan, meaning it cannot be found anywhere else in the world.
Best Places to Spot the Palawan Thrush
1. Kingfisher Park in Coron
✔ Best for: Guided birdwatching tours and nature walks.
✔ Why it’s Special: A protected bird sanctuary known for its rich avian diversity, including the Palawan Thrush.
2. El Nido’s Jungle Trails
✔ Best for: Jungle treks and nature photography.
✔ Why it’s Special: Dense forest trails provide a perfect habitat, where the Thrush forages quietly along the shaded undergrowth.
3. Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park
✔ Best for: Combining birdwatching with cave exploration.
✔ Why it’s Special: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with rich biodiversity and scenic landscapes.
📍 Pro Tip: Early morning hikes increase your chances of hearing the Palawan Thrush’s melodic song.
Conclusion
The Palawan Thrush is a shy but enchanting bird, adding an air of mystery to your Coron – El Nido adventure. Its melodic calls and secretive behavior bring the dense forests of Palawan to life, creating unforgettable moments for birdwatchers and nature lovers alike.
As you explore the hidden lagoons, lush jungles, and secluded beaches of Palawan, listen closely for the soft call of the Palawan Thrush. Spotting this elusive bird isn’t just about birdwatching; it’s about immersing yourself in the magic of nature.
🌴 Ready for an unforgettable adventure? Book your Coron – El Nido tour today and discover the enchanting mystery of the Palawan Thrush! 🐦🏝️
