Impact of introduced birds in the Philippines

Issue Date

12-2006

Abstract

Despite the Philippines' rich avifauna, only a handful of birds are introduced and possibly invasive. An account of biology, ecology, impacts and management issues of ten introduced species are discussed. Historical accounts and distribution of some species required conformation and updating. Colonization was either intentional or accidental, for pest control, as game birds, escaped caged birds, and feral domestic. Not all were able to establish local populations, like Daurian Partridges, Chinese Francolins and Red Avadavats. Most successful are Eurasian Tree Sparrows, while Crested Mynas, Java Sparrows and Zebra Doves have limited distribution. Native species like Chestnut Munias had expanded into other island through human encroachment. Escapes like Budgerigars are poorly established, while feral pigeons form semi-wild populations. Museum records and birdwatching reports noted escapees like parrots, pigeons and finches from exotic pet trade. Threats from introduced birds are not known, but fragile island endemics and montane forest isolates are at risk. Unlike Guam's Hawaii' birds, no Philippine birds has succumbed from any invasive species, other than man. Possible impacts to biodiversity were from competition predation, diseases or hybridization. Most introduced birds inhabit agroecosystems and settlements becoming agricultural and structural pests, but man has learned to utilized them as a resource.

Source or Periodical Title

Journal of Environmental Science and Management

ISSN

0119-1144

Volume

9

Issue

2

Page

66-79

Document Type

Article

College

School of Environmental Science and Management (SESAM)

Frequency

semi-annually

Physical Description

none

Language

English

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