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Philippine Fairy-bluebird (Irena cyanogastra)

Philippine Fairy-bluebird

Irena cyanogastra

Near Threatened

Overview

The Philippine fairy-bluebird (Irena cyanogastra) is a Near Threatened bird species endemic to the Philippines. It was recently split from the Asian and Palawan fairy-bluebird species due to plumage differences, voice variations, and genetic divergence.

Habitat

This species inhabits tropical moist lowland and montane forests up to 1,500 metres above sea level across Luzon, Mindanao, Samar, Leyte, and Bohol. It is currently threatened by extensive lowland deforestation, conversion to farmland, and mining.

Diet

While its specific diet is not fully recorded, it is known to feed on fruits. It is presumed to consume insects, particularly termites, similar to the Asian fairy-bluebird.

Did you know?

Considered a sacred 'tigmamanukan' omen by the Tagalog people, the bird is believed to act as a messenger of Bathala, the supreme creator god, indicating approval or warning to travellers based on its direction of flight.

Sources