New sighting and conservation implications of the endemic Sulu Boobook Ninox reyi Oustalet, 1880 at Bolobok Rock Shelter, a key archaeological site in the Sulu Archipelago, southern Philippines
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.11609/jott.9052.17.3.26753-26756Keywords:
Conservation, Hawk-owl, ornithology, Sulu archipelagoAbstract
We report a new sighting of the vulnerable and endemic Sulu Boobook Ninox reyi at Bolobok Rock Shelter, Tawi-Tawi, Philippines, on 10 July 2023. This observation expands the species’ known range and suggests possible adaptation to limestone karst habitats, indicating a broader ecological niche than previously documented. Further surveys are necessary to establish the species’ long-term presence, reproductive activity, and population status in the area. Given Bolobok Rock Shelter’s dual significance as both a cultural heritage site and a potential critical habitat for Ninox reyi, we emphasize the need for continued monitoring & conservation efforts to safeguard both the species and its environment.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Fauriza J. Saddari, Yennyriza T. Abduraup, Adzmer A. Juaini, Roger A. Irilis, Khalid D. Adam, Mary Joyce Z. Guinto-Sali, Richard N. Muallil
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- National Research Council of the Philippines
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