Bird-watching in Metro Manila might sound surprising given the urban sprawl, but the area hosts a variety of habitats — urban forest patches, mangroves, mudflats and wetlands — where many bird species live or pass through. The Philippines is home to hundreds of bird species (over 700 recorded) and many endemics, so even in and around Manila there are meaningful opportunities for bird-watching.
Good Birding Spots near Manila
Corbett National Park is home to over 600 species of birds, making it a hotspot for avian enthusiasts. The park’s diverse habitats, including grasslands, riverine areas, forests, and wetlands, support a wide variety of birds, both resident and migratory. The birds found here range from raptors and waterfowl to forest-dwelling species.
Key Birding Zones
Here are some of the more accessible and rewarding bird-watching sites in or near Manila :
La Mesa Ecopark (Quezon City)
- The park is divided into “Phase 1” (easy walking, well-used) and “Phase 2” (more jungle trail feel, fewer visitors) for birding.
- Bird species you can see there include Philippine endemics: for example the Spotted Wood Kingfisher, Ashy Thrush, Philippine Hanging Parrot among others.
- Opening hours/fees (as of the article): 7 am–4 pm Tues–Sun, small entrance fee; Phase 2 has additional fee.
- Why it’s good: Close enough to Manila, accessible, established trails; you’ll get a forest-type experience without travelling far.
Las Piñas–Parañaque Wetland Park (LPPCHEA)
- A large wetland area near Manila Bay (in Las Piñas & Parañaque) comprising mudflats, lagoons, mangroves.
- It hosts many migratory waterbirds and is considered of international significance for some species.
- deal if you’re interested in shorebirds, waders, waterbirds rather than forest species.
- Note : For some areas you might need permits (check local rules) or access may be via less obvious routes.
Urban smaller pockets & campuses
- For example : Arroceros Forest Park in Manila city proper: small urban forest area but a green breathing space for birds.
- Also campuses and large parks around Manila have birdlife: for example the campus of University of the Philippines Diliman is mentioned as having birding value.
- These are good if you have limited time and don’t want to travel far.
What you can expect to see
Forest species : In sites like La Mesa you’ll find forest-type birds including endemics (birds only found in the Philippines) and resident species.
Waterbirds/migratory species : At wetlands/coastal sites you’ll see waders, shorebirds, waterfowl, migratory species using the flyway. For example the mudflats of Manila Bay: “up to 20% of the flyway population of Great Egrets” uses parts of Manila Bay.
Common urban/adaptable species : Expect also more common birds, city-birds, but the thrill is in spotting the special ones and seeing them in such accessible locations.
Best time to go & other practicalities
- Early morning is best : birds are more active, quieter, less human disturbance.
- For migratory birds : the northern winter months (roughly November to March) usually mean more migratory waders/waterbirds.
- Dress : comfortable walking shoes, possibly waterproof/ mud-resistant footwear if going to mudflats or wetlands.
- Gear : binoculars are very helpful; camera with decent zoom if you like photography; a field-guide or bird-listing app will help.
- Respect the birds & habitat : No bird-feeding unless permitted, keep noise down, stay on trails. For example bird-feeding is prohibited in La Mesa Ecopark.
- Permits/check access : Some sites may require registration or permit; check ahead. E.g., La Mesa’s Phase 2 had additional fee.
- Transport : Traffic around Manila can be heavy; allow extra time for travel. Entry early (morning) is better.
- Check opening hours and local rules (some parks closed on certain days). Example: La Mesa Ecopark closed Mondays.
Bird-watching around Manila offers more than you might expect: from dense urban forest patches to sweeping coastal wetlands, there’s a rich mix of birds to discover. Whether you’re a beginner or have some experience, taking a morning out at one of the sites above can be rewarding. If you like, I can pull together a detailed guide with bird species lists, maps, and recommendation for nearby accommodation and guides.
