Chapter 2
Chapter 2
This chapter reviews literature and studies relevant to avian conservation and eco-centric
architectural design, supporting the focus of this research. Key works on bird diversity,
conservation and research center tailored to the needs of local avian species in Santa Ana,
Cagayan. By synthesizing these sources, this review establishes the research context and
"Philippines’ rich bird life is more threatened than we thought, study says."
The study titled “Philippines’ rich bird life is more threatened than we thought,” by Çağan
Şekercioğlu et al., examines the current conservation status of avian biodiversity in the
Philippines. With over 7,000 islands, the country is a biodiversity hotspot, housing more than
258 endemic bird species out of 594 recorded. However, the habitat loss from human-driven
activities has led to significant conservation concerns. The study highlights that the Philippines is
ranked eighth globally for the number of bird species classified as endangered or critically
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endangered, with endemic species being the most at risk due to habitat-specific needs (Birdlife
Summary of Findings
The research reveals that 84 Philippine bird species are at greater risk than currently reflected in
the IUCN Red List, suggesting an urgent need for reclassification to prioritize conservation
efforts. These species face threats from agricultural expansion, logging, and hunting, with
species like the Philippine eagle-owl and Palawan peacock-pheasant proposed for elevated threat
status. Şekercioğlu’s findings underscore the essential role of accurate conservation status in
enabling effective resource allocation and highlight that reclassifying at-risk species can raise
awareness and direct more focused conservation efforts (Birdlife International, 2018;
Şekercioğlu et al. (2021) emphasize the importance of regular updates to conservation statuses
for Philippine bird species, as outdated information may lead to misallocation of resources. They
advocate for localized conservation efforts, arguing that global classifications may not fully
address the specific needs of endemic species in the Philippines. The study also critiques large-
scale conservation frameworks, recommending that strategies should incorporate local context
In terms of research gaps, the study highlights the need for comparative studies to understand the
unique ecological pressures in the Philippines. It also calls for longitudinal research to track
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population changes over time. Finally, the study points out the lack of data on human impacts,
such as habitat degradation and urbanization, which are crucial for developing comprehensive
conservation strategies.
Designers Perspective
The status of avian biodiversity in the Philippines highlights the urgent need for tailored
conservation efforts for the country’s unique bird populations. From an architectural standpoint,
this presents an opportunity for designers to create sustainable, habitat-friendly structures that
support endangered species like the Philippine eagle-owl and the Palawan peacock-pheasant.
Architectural elements could include observation platforms and walkways that minimize bird
disturbance, shaded resting areas, and native vegetation that provides cover, nesting sites, and
Conservation-informed design can also integrate local materials to reduce ecological footprints
and create spaces that promote bird conservation awareness and research. These designs can
support monitoring and rehabilitation efforts while educating visitors on the importance of local
species. By adopting eco-centric principles, designers can ensure that their projects align with
diminishing habitats.
This approach calls for a shift in architectural values, placing ecological impact at the forefront
to ensure that built environments harmonize with natural ecosystems, echoing Şekercioğlu's call
The study highlights the precarious status of the Philippine duck (Anas luzonica), an endemic
species classified as vulnerable by the IUCN. The research focuses on the species' declining
populations due to habitat destruction, particularly the loss of wetlands, illegal hunting, and
insufficient localized conservation measures. Wetlands, the duck's primary habitat, are among
the most degraded ecosystems globally, with over 87% lost since the 18th century due to
agricultural expansion and urban development. In the Philippines, regions such as Ligawasan
Marsh in BARMM and Timako Hill in Cotabato are critical habitats, though populations remain
understudied. The study underscores the urgent need for integrated conservation strategies
Summary of Findings
The findings highlight several critical aspects of avian conservation. Wetland degradation,
primarily driven by urbanization and agricultural expansion, poses a significant threat to habitats,
with over 87% of wetlands globally being converted. This loss particularly affects waterfowl
species, such as the Philippine duck. Economic valuation plays a vital role in conservation, as
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public perception and willingness to pay (WTP) for conservation efforts are essential for
securing long-term funding. The Contingent Valuation Method (CVM) indicates strong potential
units, Indigenous Peoples, NGOs, and international organizations like WWF-Philippines are
essential in habitat protection and restoration. However, there is a notable gap in comprehensive
data regarding the population size and dynamics of the Philippine duck, particularly in regions
like BARMM, which are critical to their survival. Lastly, community involvement, through
awareness campaigns and livelihood programs, has become increasingly recognized as vital for
sustaining conservation efforts, ensuring that local communities are actively engaged in
preserving biodiversity.
The study emphasizes the urgency of wetland conservation, particularly in relation to the
Philippine duck, as wetland degradation due to urbanization and agriculture continues to threaten
its habitat. Immediate restoration and protection of these habitats are critical to prevent further
population declines (Santos, 2018; Cruz, 2020). Additionally, the role of public engagement in
for long-term sustainability. Public willingness to pay (WTP) for conservation could help bridge
funding gaps, ensuring continued support for habitat protection. This approach underscores the
Furthermore, the study calls for localized conservation strategies, which address region-specific
challenges and ecological dynamics that are often overlooked in broader conservation
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frameworks. Tailored, community-driven efforts are crucial to ensuring the success and
In terms of research gaps, the study stresses the need for comparative studies to explore why
avian diversity and conservation needs in the Philippines differ from other regions. Such studies
could provide insights into unique ecological and human-related pressures that influence
conservation strategies. The study also emphasizes the importance of longitudinal research to
track changes in avian populations and habitats over time. This would offer valuable insights into
trends and environmental shifts, enabling data-driven predictions for future conservation
planning. Lastly, the lack of extensive data on human impact, particularly habitat degradation
and urbanization, is noted as a critical gap. Understanding these impacts is essential for building
comprehensive conservation strategies that address both natural and anthropogenic threats to
biodiversity.
The study was carried out in Maguindanao Del Norte and Maguindanao Del Sur provinces in
BARMM, Mindanao Island, and the Philippines
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Designers Perspective
The study Endemic and Threatened: The Conservation Value of the Philippine Duck emphasizes
the urgent need to protect the rapidly diminishing wetland habitats of the Philippine duck,
primarily due to agricultural expansion and illegal hunting (Jaafar et al., 2024). Designers have a
crucial role to play in addressing this issue by prioritizing the creation and maintenance of
wetland reserves, ensuring these critical habitats are preserved. Furthermore, the study
support conservation efforts is closely linked to their understanding of the species' ecological
significance. This insight calls for the integration of educational elements in conservation
projects, such as informative displays and local workshops, to raise awareness and promote
sustainable practices within communities (Jaafar et al., 2024). Financial strategies are also
highlighted as essential for long-term conservation. The study points to the potential for public
financial contributions and stresses the importance of developing fundraising strategies that
secure funding to protect biodiversity. By aligning financial support with local conservation
needs, designers can cultivate stronger community investment. Additionally, the study advocates
for the inclusion of educational spaces, such as visitor centers, that not only educate the public
about the ecological importance of the Philippine duck but also foster long-term ecological
community involvement, financial sustainability, and education to ensure the preservation of the
In summary, this research advocates for a design approach that harmonizes habitat conservation,
community participation, financial strategies, and educational efforts, which are all vital to the
The study "Avian Fauna of Mount Melibengoy, Southern Mindanao, Philippines: Conservation
Implications on a Partially Protected Key Biodiversity Area under Threat" by Pitogo et al. (2024)
examines the critical avian biodiversity in the Mount Melibengoy region of southern Mindanao.
The region's biodiversity, shaped by historical geological processes, faces increasing threats due
endangered species like the Philippine eagle and the Mindanao lorikeet, is a partially protected
Summary of Findings
Recent surveys show that Mount Melibengoy’s avian species, including the rare Mindanao
lorikeet and the uncertain Philippine eagle, are threatened by habitat loss and insufficient
protection. Despite its rich diversity, with many invertebrate-eating birds, approximately 70% of
Mindanao's Key Biodiversity Areas, including Mount Melibengoy, lack full legal protection. The
Tboli local government has designated a 5,000-hectare conservation area, but without clear
boundaries and effective protection measures, the region remains vulnerable to threats like
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deforestation and illegal hunting. The study calls for more surveys, stronger conservation efforts,
Several gaps exist in the current research on Mount Melibengoy’s avian fauna. There is limited
recent data on key species, such as the Philippine eagle and Mindanao lorikeet, and the actual
extent of their decline. The absence of comprehensive long-term population monitoring further
limits effective conservation planning. Additionally, the study highlights the lack of formal legal
protection for much of the biodiversity in Mount Melibengoy, as many areas fall outside the
National Integrated Protected Areas System (NIPAS). The authors argue for the urgent
designation of CHs and stronger collaboration among local communities, Indigenous Peoples,
and conservation agencies, such as the DENR, to ensure the sustainability of biodiversity in the
region. Moreover, the study suggests that a more coordinated approach, including clear boundary
delineation and protection mechanisms, is crucial for the long-term conservation of the area’s
Map showing the relative location of Mt Melibengoy and its portions within the Allah Valley
Protected Landscape (AVPL, blue line). A concrete road (white line) bisects the once-contiguous
primary forests of Mt Melibengoy and the adjacent Malibato mountain range.
Designers Perspective
Mount Melibengoy in Southern Mindanao, Philippines, is a vital key biodiversity area (KBA)
threatened by habitat disturbances and human activities. It is home to a diverse range of avian
species, with 130 recorded, including 68 endemic to the Philippines and 19 restricted to
Mindanao. The presence of the elusive Mindanao Lorikeet (Saudareous johnstoniae) highlights
the urgent need for conservation efforts to protect these fragile habitats (Senarillos et al., 2021;
Allen, 2020). Architects can play a significant role in this effort by adopting an integrated
platforms, research hubs, and eco-friendly pathways can facilitate scientific monitoring without
encroaching on sensitive areas. Additionally, establishing educational centers can engage local
communities, raise awareness, and promote active participation in conservation (Pitogo et al.,
2021; Saavedra & Pitogo, 2021). The study emphasizes the importance of collective and
strategic conservation efforts, particularly in protecting and restoring unprotected forested areas
within the KBA. By focusing on safeguarding endemic bird species and building sustainable,
The Philippines is a recognized biodiversity hotspot, particularly known for its high number of
endemic bird species, which makes it an important center for avian endemism (Convention on
Biological Diversity, 2020; Myers et al., 2000). However, the country's biodiversity faces
significant threats, with 13.6% of its bird species globally threatened and nearly 30% of its
endemic bird species at risk of extinction (Brinkman et al., 2023; IUCN, 2023). Deforestation
and illegal wildlife hunting are major contributors to this crisis, resulting in the loss of over 90%
of the country’s original forest cover (Hughes, 2017; Gray et al., 2018). In the Western Visayas,
particularly in the Northwest Panay Peninsula Natural Park (NPPNP), deforestation rates are
high, and understanding how bird communities respond to habitat disturbances is crucial for
Summary of Findings
The study investigates the bird community responses to habitat changes in NPPNP across four
habitat types: primary forests, secondary forests, plantations, and open areas. The findings reveal
that primary forests support a higher diversity of specialized and endemic bird species, while
secondary forests host more generalist species. Plantations and open areas exhibited significantly
lower species richness and diversity, suggesting that intensive land-use changes negatively affect
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avian biodiversity (Cadotte et al., 2011). Functional diversity analysis, including categorization
into guilds like insectivores, frugivorous, and nectarivores, further emphasized the importance of
primary forests for conserving endemic species. The study also highlighted that habitat
disturbances impact bird guilds differently, disrupting the trophic structure of the ecosystem
(Flynn et al., 2009; Şekercioḡlu et al., 2002). Furthermore, the research stresses the importance
of maintaining primary forests in NPPNP to preserve bird diversity and regional endemism.
The study highlights key gaps in conservation efforts for the Northwest Panay Peninsula Natural
Park (NPPNP), particularly the lack of financial support for local communities to participate in
limited resources. Whytock et al. (2018) stress the need for sustainable funding models that
The study calls for a collaborative approach involving government, NGOs, and the private sector
to provide necessary support, protect forests, regenerate secondary habitats, and improve
connectivity. This approach could reduce reliance on destructive practices like logging.
Additionally, the study points out the lack of focus on functional diversity in conservation,
urging future research to include it in planning. Understanding species' ecological roles is crucial
for preserving processes like pollination and seed dispersal, even when species numbers decline.
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Addressing these gaps through a holistic approach that combines community engagement and
functional diversity is vital for long-term conservation success. This can create sustainable
Designers Perspective
The study underscores the vital role of the Northwest Panay Peninsula Natural Park (NPPNP) in
conservation architecture, key insights from the research can inform more effective strategies.
The findings highlight the significance of primary forests, which harbor the highest levels of bird
diversity and endemic species, necessitating their protection and restoration. Design strategies
can incorporate buffer zones around these forests to mitigate disturbances from nearby
agricultural or urban developments. Secondary forests and plantations, while less biodiverse, still
support bird communities, and enhancing habitat connectivity between primary and secondary
forests can help sustain these populations. Creating ecological corridors could enable bird
crucial for successful conservation efforts. Designers can facilitate this through educational
spaces such as visitor centers and interpretative trails, fostering public awareness and
encouraging active participation in conservation. The study also emphasizes the importance of
functional diversity, where understanding the roles of different bird species can guide habitat-
specific designs, such as providing suitable environments for frugivores, insectivores, and
omnivores to support ecological functions like seed dispersal and pest control. Design strategies
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evolve. Lastly, sustainable practices should be prioritized, such as using local materials,
minimize ecological impact. Ultimately, the study offers a framework for designing conservation
“Small-scale forest restoration in peri-urban areas provides immediate benefits for birds"
Small-scale forest restoration in peri-urban areas involves the targeted re-establishment of native
vegetation on degraded or fragmented lands near urban environments. This conservation practice
aims to create habitats for wildlife while enhancing ecosystem services such as air quality,
temperature regulation, and water retention. Unlike large-scale restoration projects, small-scale
efforts focus on strategic interventions in urban or peri-urban settings, prioritizing areas with
limited space but high potential for biodiversity gains. These initiatives are often designed to
address urbanization's ecological impacts and promote coexistence between human and natural
systems.
Summary of Findings
Recent research demonstrates that small-scale forest restoration provides immediate and
measurable benefits for bird populations. Bird species richness and diversity increase
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significantly in restored areas due to the improved availability of nesting sites, food resources,
and habitat connectivity. Such projects are especially valuable for generalist and adaptable bird
species, which quickly exploit the restored habitats. They also serve as ecological stepping
stones, facilitating species movement and genetic exchange between fragmented patches.
Moreover, these restoration efforts can act as critical refuges for urban-dwelling species,
While small-scale restoration shows promise, several gaps remain in understanding its long-term
sustainability and broader ecological impact. Limited studies address how restored habitats
withstand challenges such as invasive species, urban pollution, and human disturbances over
time. There is also insufficient data on the effectiveness of small-scale projects in supporting
specialist or endangered bird species, which often require more extensive and undisturbed
habitats. Furthermore, questions about scalability persist—how can these projects be expanded
or replicated across different peri-urban areas to maximize their ecological benefits? Addressing
these gaps is essential for optimizing small-scale forest restoration as a viable conservation
strategy, ensuring that it complements larger-scale efforts and contributes meaningfully to urban
Designers Perspective
Small-scale forest restoration in peri-urban areas provides designers with an opportunity to create
spaces that benefit both wildlife and human communities. By restoring these areas with native
plants and establishing ecological corridors, designers can enhance bird habitats even in
urbanized regions. These restored spaces can also serve the public by providing recreational
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features like birdwatching platforms and eco-friendly trails. Furthermore, designers can
transform underused urban areas into green spaces by incorporating sustainable elements such as
rain gardens or bios wales to improve storm water management and enhance local ecosystems.
This holistic approach creates multifunctional areas that cater to both the needs of wildlife and
people. By collaborating with ecologists, designers ensure that these projects are effective and
In agricultural landscapes”
initiatives, such as creating hedgerows, planting cover crops, establishing bird-friendly habitats,
and maintaining traditional farming methods, aim to improve habitat availability and ecosystem
connectivity. They have been identified as valuable tools for preserving avian diversity by
mitigating the negative effects of intensive agricultural practices on bird populations (Benton et
Summary of Findings
Studies have shown that small-scale agro-environmental interventions significantly enhance bird
diversity in agricultural landscapes by providing critical habitats and resources. For instance, the
establishment of field margins, organic farming practices, and native plant restoration has been
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found to increase both species richness and the abundance of various bird species, including
those that are typically threatened by habitat degradation (Therneau et al., 2012; Kleijn et al.,
2011). Furthermore, the diversity of bird species varies depending on the type and extent of the
agro-environmental initiatives, with some practices being more beneficial for specific bird
habitats that can increase species' resilience to environmental changes and contribute to
Despite the positive outcomes reported, research on the long-term effects and scalability of these
initiatives remains limited. More studies are needed to assess how small-scale agro-
environmental initiatives can be integrated into large agricultural systems without compromising
food production (Kleijn et al., 2006). Another gap exists in understanding how these practices
impact the broader ecosystem, including non-avian species and ecosystem services like
pollination and pest control. Additionally, the variability in effectiveness based on geographic
location, local agricultural practices, and species-specific needs requires further exploration to
cost-benefit analysis and incentives for farmers (Pe'er et al., 2014). The incorporation of local
farmer knowledge and the development of policy frameworks that support agro-environmental
schemes will be vital for maximizing the impact of these conservation efforts.
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Designer's Perspective
ecological and agricultural systems in ways that benefit both wildlife and farming communities.
and designing buffer zones between agricultural fields and natural habitats, designers can
improve avian diversity while supporting sustainable farming methods (Kleijn et al., 2011).
These interventions not only offer immediate habitat benefits but also contribute to long-term
ecological resilience by promoting biodiversity and ecosystem services such as pest control and
multifunctional spaces that can integrate agricultural production with ecological goals. Designers
can create spaces that balance both the practical needs of farming and the conservation of bird
—designing spaces where farmers are actively involved in the process and where agro-
environmental initiatives are tailored to the specific ecological and social needs of the area (Pe'er
et al., 2014).
Moreover, designers can explore how these agro-environmental interventions can be scaled,
ensuring that they are both cost-effective and adaptable to different agricultural settings.
Integrating green infrastructure such as rainwater harvesting systems, habitat corridors, and
sustainable water management practices can further enhance these spaces' ability to support
avian diversity while addressing environmental challenges like water scarcity (Batáry et al.,
2011). This holistic approach encourages the coexistence of agricultural production with
biodiversity conservation, ensuring that both environmental and community needs are met.
"Avian Wonders of the World to Nest in New Homes at Singapore's Bird Paradise"
Singapore's Bird Paradise, situated within the Mandai Wildlife Reserve, serves as a
designed to replicate natural habitats, such as rainforest canopies and wetland ecosystems,
providing an immersive environment for over 400 species of birds. It emphasizes biodiversity
protection through habitat recreation, education, and conservation research. This facility
integrates visitor engagement by offering interactive tours and educational programs that
showcase the significance of avian biodiversity and the threats these species face globally. As
efforts with public awareness initiatives to inspire environmental stewardship (Where Singapore
Summary of Findings
Research on Bird Paradise highlights its role as a sanctuary that combines habitat restoration
with innovative public outreach. By providing naturalistic environments, the facility ensures
species-specific care for birds, allowing them to thrive while engaging the public through
conservation organizations to address critical issues such as habitat loss and the declining
populations of endangered species. These efforts position it as a model for integrating wildlife
protection with community involvement. The sanctuary also fosters awareness of avian
migration patterns and the ecological importance of conserving their habitats, making it a leader
Despite its successes, Bird Paradise reveals gaps that warrant further exploration. First, while the
sanctuary provides robust on-site conservation, more data is needed on its long-term impact on
global avian population trends. Additionally, its educational programs focus primarily on visitor
experiences, leaving questions about their measurable influence on changing public behaviors
toward conservation. Another area for exploration is the sanctuary's contribution to scientific
research. While collaborations are noted, details on the outcomes of these studies and their
application to broader conservation strategies remain limited. Addressing these gaps could
enhance the sanctuary's role as a global leader in avian conservation and further strengthen its
Designer's Perspective
The design of Bird Paradise reflects an innovative and eco-centric approach that prioritizes the
needs of its avian inhabitants while creating an immersive and educational experience for
visitors. Inspired by the natural habitats of birds, the sanctuary's architecture integrates features
such as rainforest canopies, wetland sanctuaries, and open flight aviaries. These elements allow
From a designer’s perspective, Bird Paradise exemplifies how architecture can blend ecological
functionality with human engagement. The use of biophilic design principles fosters a seamless
connection between visitors and nature, encouraging conservation awareness. The strategic
placement of interactive spaces, such as bird-watching platforms and feeding stations, enhances
Objectives:
Design Functional Rehabilitation Spaces: Create safe and functional
environments that cater to the specific rehabilitation needs of various bird
species, ensuring they can recover and thrive.
Facilitate Public Interaction: Design spaces that allow for controlled
public access and interaction, enhancing educational opportunities about
avian rehabilitation without disturbing the wildlife.
Incorporate Sustainable Practices: Implement eco-friendly materials,
energy-efficient systems, and passive architectural strategies in the design to
minimize the carbon footprint and create a supportive environment for bird
rehabilitation.
Municipality of Santa Ana Data Gathering and Research Avian Species Conservation
International Agreements
Promotes the conservation of biological diversity, including avian species and their
habitats.
Provides legal protection for wildlife, including birds, and regulates their trade
and conservation.
Promotes the conservation of forests, a critical habitat for many bird species.
avian habitats.
tourism.