Across the 7,600 plus islands that make up the Philippines, you can find over 52,177 different types of animals. The country has one of the highest rates of discovery of new animal species in the world.
Over 50% of these species exist nowhere else on earth. Encroachment, land fragmentation, and habitat loss threaten over 700 animals with extinction.
The Official National Animal
The waters at Coron on Palawan Island in the Philippines.
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While many believe the national animal of the Philippines is the carabao, a native water buffalo, this is false. While the carabao is an important and symbolic creature in the Philippines, the official national animal is actually the Philippine eagle. This was declared in 1995 by the Philippine government in proclamation No. 615.
This domesticated animal is a valuable source of labor, transportation, and food in many parts of the country, particularly in rural areas. The Carabao is known for its strength and endurance and is often used to plow fields and carry heavy loads. It is also a symbol of hard work, determination, and resilience, qualities that are highly valued in Filipino culture.
The Carabao is a vital part of the Philippines’ agricultural heritage and a source of pride for many Filipinos.
Rarest Animals in the Philippines
The Philippines is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including many species that are found nowhere else in the world. However, many of these species are under threat due to habitat loss, deforestation, and illegal hunting. Some of the rarest animals in the Philippines include the Philippine Eagle, the Tamaraw, and the Visayan Warty Pig.
The Philippine Eagle, also known as the Monkey-Eating Eagle, is one of the rarest birds of prey in the world, with an estimated population of only 400 pairs remaining in the wild. This majestic bird can be found in the forests of Luzon, Mindanao, and Samar, and is known for its distinctive crest of feathers and powerful talons. The Philippine Eagle is critically endangered due to habitat loss and hunting and is protected under Philippine law.
The Tamaraw is a critically endangered species of dwarf buffalo that is found only on the island of Mindoro. There are believed to be only around 500 Tamaraws remaining in the wild, making it one of the rarest animals in the Philippines. The Tamaraw is threatened by habitat loss, disease, and hunting, and efforts are being made to protect and preserve this iconic species.
The Visayan Warty Pig is a critically endangered species of pig that is found only in the Visayan Islands of the central Philippines. This unique species is distinguished by the warty growths on its face, which are used for display during mating rituals. The Visayan Warty Pig is threatened by habitat loss, hunting, and disease, and is protected under Philippine law.
The Largest Animals in the Philippines
The Philippines is home to a wide range of animal species, including some of the largest animals in the world. These include the Whale Shark, the Saltwater Crocodile, and the Tamaraw.
The Whale Shark, also known as the Butanding, is the largest fish in the world and can be found in the waters around the Philippines. These gentle giants can grow up to 40 feet in length and weigh up to 20 tons and are a popular attraction for tourists looking to swim or dive with them. Despite their size, Whale Sharks are harmless to humans and feed primarily on plankton.
The Saltwater Crocodile, also known as the Estuarine Crocodile, is one of the largest crocodile species in the world and can be found in the waters and estuaries of the Philippines. These massive reptiles can grow up to 23 feet in length and weigh up to 2,200 pounds and are known for their powerful jaws and aggressive behavior. While attacks on humans are relatively rare, Saltwater Crocodiles are considered dangerous animals and are protected under Philippine law.
The Tamaraw, a species of dwarf buffalo found only on the island of Mindoro, is one of the largest land animals in the Philippines. These impressive creatures can grow up to 4 feet tall at the shoulder and weigh up to 300 kilograms and are known for their impressive strength and endurance. Unfortunately, the Tamaraw is also one of the most endangered species in the Philippines, with only a few hundred individuals remaining in the wild.
Where To Find The Top Wild Animals in the Philippines
The Philippine Eagle has a unique look that helps it blend in with the environment.
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Found on these islands are a surprising amount of animals native to the Philippines, some of which are rarely if at all, found anywhere else in the world. Since the Philippines is spread across over 7,000 islands, it is important to know where to find the top wild animals.
- Philippine Eagle – The Philippine eagle is the national bird and the world’s tallest and longest. Look for this bird on Mount Kitanglad. You can also see this bird on Mindanao, Luzon, Leyte, and Samar islands.
- Brahminy Kites – This large bird of prey resides in Bohol, Mindoro, Palawan, Cebu, Marinduque, Guimaras, Leyte, Lubang, Sarangani, Masbate, and Tawi-Tawi.
- Dugong Sea Cow – See this sea mammal that can weigh up to 650 pounds around Palawan Island.
- Whale shark – The Philippines has the third densest population of whale sharks in the world. You may be able to swim with them in the waters surrounding Leyte, Tubbataha, Donsol, and Oslob islands.
- Sardines – Snorkel with about 8 million sardines off the waters near Panagsama, Moalboal, Philippines.
- Tarsier – The candy-bar-sized tarsier, the second-smallest primate in the world, is found in Corella, Bohol, Philippines. Look for this mammal that hunts at night high in trees.
- Tokay gecko – If you hear something that sounds like you are winding an old-fashioned alarm clock, look for a Tokay gecko nearby. This species is the second-largest species of gecko, and you can spot it on Luzon Island.
- Tamaraw – These small-hooved mammals are cherished by the Filipino people that live in Mindoro.
- Philippine crocodile – Head to Northern Sierra Madre Natural Park to see the Philippine crocodile, which is the rarest crocodile in the world.
Native Birds
The Philippines has the third highest number of endemic birds, following Indonesia and Australia. Found on these islands are around 714 avian species: 243 endemics, three introduced, and 52 accidental. Birdwatching in the Philippines can be somewhat difficult, having to travel across the different islands, many of which have unique dialects.
Unfortunately, many of the native species are declining in population due to human encroachment and habitat loss, leading to endangerment and extinction.
There are 4 main areas of the archipelago especially popular for wildlife and bird watching:
- Luzon is the largest island, containing a diverse array of environments and several associated islands. Relatively easy to navigate, finding the popular species to see usually takes a day or two of travel. Species unique to Luzon include the Luzon bleeding heart and the Luzon hornbill. Other species found in Luzon include the Flame-breasted Fruit Dove, Penelopides, and Gallicolumba, to name a few.
- The Visayas consists of the majority of the Philippine Islands but is not long to travel as many of the islands are small. Due to the rise in human population, many native species are difficult to find or extinct on these islands. While hopping the Visayas, keep an eye out for Negros Scops owls, Visayas Tarictic Hornbills, Yellow-faced Flamebacks, and Flame-templed Babblers.
- Mindanao is generally avoided due to instability within the country. However, it is one of the last homes of the Philippine Eagle, the national bird, and an endemic species. Travel is still possible but takes careful organization and planning in advance. The Apo sunbird, Southern Silvery Kingfisher, Mindanao Blue Fantail, and the Red-eared Parrotfinch are species to look for in Mindanao.
- Palawan, tropical in climate, is a popular destination for tourists and birdwatchers. Many other types of animals can be seen on the island, as well, making for a good pastime while on the lookout for avian species. Palawan is home to several endemic species, such as the Palawan Scops owl, the Palawan Hornbill, and the Palawan tit. Other birds found on the island are the Melodious Babbler, White-vented Shama, and the Lovely Sunbird.
Native Fish
Octopuses are soft-bodied, eight-limbed molluscs of the order Octopoda.
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The Philippines is surrounded by around 1.36 million square miles of ocean and 11,000 miles of shoreline. In these waters, countless incredible species of marine life live, such as whale sharks, pygmy seahorses, cuttlefish, and blue ring octopus.
Over 2,000 fish species swim the waters, contributing to an expansive fishing ecosystem. Anglers from around the world come to these waters to experience the wildlife but to also gamefish for unique species. The Siargao Islands host an International Gamefishing Tournament, where fishermen compete to catch the largest fish. Fish can be caught year-round with the best season ranging from March to May. Dorado, billfish, sailfish, marlin, and tuna are common catches in these parts.
Subic is known for its incredible reefs surrounding shipwrecks, attracting many species such as wahoo, mackerel, barracuda, sailfish, and giant trevally during the season of October to around June.
Freshwater fishing is also popular in many lakes of the archipelago. Largemouth bass fishing prevails at lakes Lumot and Caliraya, outside of Manila.
It is important to check out the local fishing guidelines and regulations before planning a trip in order to protect endangered species and habitats.
Native Snakes
About 175 species of snakes live on the Philippine Islands or swim in the waters.
The archipelago is home to the longest snake in the world, the longest venomous snake (King Cobra), and the snake species with the longest venom glands (long-glanced coral snakes).
Many venomous sea snakes swim in the oceans surrounding the islands, a few examples include Coral Reef Snakes, Yellow-lipped Sea Kraits, Laticauda, and Hydrophis semperi (freshwater).
Families of snakes found on the islands include:
- Pythons: Reticulated pythons are the only pythons in the archipelago rainforests.
- Elapids: Venomous snakes with fangs erect at the front of their mouths. Includes cobras, such as the King Cobra, Northern Philippine Cobra, Southern Philippine Cobra, and Equatorial Spitting Cobra. Also includes 3 coral reef species and 20 species of sea snakes and sea kraits.
- Blind Snakes: Small, burrowing snakes that are harmless and elusive. They are names for their reduced, vestigial eyes.
- Pit Vipers: Medium-sized, venomous, tree-dwelling snakes with folding fangs at the front of their mouths. Wagler’s pit vipers generally symbolize good fortune.
- Colubrids: Mostly venomous but not considered dangerous to humans. Examples include the Red-tailed rat snake, the banded wolf snake, reed snakes, and bronze backs.
Make sure to keep an eye on the ground, trees, and ocean when exploring the magnificent islands of the Philippines. If bitten by a snake, venomous or not, seek professional medical attention.
The Most Dangerous Animals in the Philippines Today
Among them are venomous snakes such as the Philippine Cobra and the Malayan Pit Viper, which can cause serious illness or death if not treated promptly. The Saltwater Crocodile, one of the largest crocodile species in the world, is also found in the Philippines and has been known to attack and kill humans.
The Box Jellyfish, which is found in the waters around the Philippines, can deliver a lethal sting that can cause heart failure and respiratory distress. While encounters with these dangerous animals are relatively rare, it is important for visitors and residents alike to exercise caution and take appropriate safety measures to avoid potential harm.
While many unique Filipino animals are not dangerous, there are a few that you need to be aware of if you visit this island nation.
- Mosquitoes – Approximately 85,000 dengue cases are reported in the Philippines annually. This viral disease carried by mosquitoes kills about 500 people annually.
- Dogs – About 250 people are killed by rabies transmitted from dog bites in the Philippines annually.
- Philippine cobra – In rural areas of the Philippines, approximately 107 people per 100,000 died of bites from the Philippine cobra. Most died before they could reach a hospital.
- Jellyfish – In particular, bites from the box jellyfish kill about 30 people annually.
Endangered Animals
Sadly, many of the animals living in the Philippines are endangered. Common threats to habitats and populations include overhunting, industrial development, and habitat fragmentation. While the country has passed laws to protect wildlife, they have not done a very good job of enforcing those laws, so exotic animals have minimal protection.
Some of the most notable Philippine endangered wildlife include:
- Philippine eagle
- Philippine freshwater crocodile
- Tamaraw
- Visayan Wrinkled Hornbill
- Philippine cockatoo
- Negros bleeding-heart
- Philippine naked-backed fruit bat
- Philippine forest turtle
- Dinagat cloud bushy-tail rat
- Hawksbill sea turtle
Zoos in the Philippines
Zoos and wildlife parks are great places to visit with children and families when looking for a fun adventure. There are around 15 zoos located in the Philippines, here are the top 5:
- Cebu Safari (Cebu) – The largest and most popular zoological park, Cebu Safari spans 170 hectares (420 acres). Animals roam relatively freely, including Bengal tigers, wildebeest, giraffes, greater kudu, etc. The park also includes an expansive orchid garden, aesthetically pleasing to visitors.
- Zoobic Safari (Bataan) – Located on 25 hectares (61 acres), visitors are welcome to pet and meet animals. Approachable animals include ferrets, bearcats, guinea pigs, and ducks. Monkeys, eagles, bears, and many more species also exist within the park. Exclusively at this park, a tiger jumps on safari cars while devouring a chicken carcass, giving visitors a full experience of seeing a tiger up close and personal.
- Avilon Zoo (Rizal) – Over 3,000 species, both native and exotic, fill this expansive park. The Avilon Zoo is known for its conservation efforts to help protect and preserve endangered species. Visitors are able to feed deer, wild horses, giant tortoises, and waterfowl while viewing other exhibits of intelligent and playful animals.
- Calauit Safari Park (Busuanga) – While not as accessible as other zoos in the country, the park is home to an array of species including crocodiles, giraffes, Philippine mouse deer, Philippine porcupine, and the Palawan bearded pig to name a few.
- Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center (Manila) – Holds a Wildlife Rescue Center used by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) as a temporary refuge for injured, abandoned, donated, sick, or confiscated wildlife. Many indigenous species, such as the Philippine deer, Palawan bearded deer, water monitors, binturongs, and crab-eating macaques. One of the best zoos in the country and many intriguing avian species are also housed here.
The Flag of The Philippines
People in the Philippines are proud of their country.
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The Philippines’ flag has four colors: red, blue, white, and yellow. The red and blue form horizontal bands across the majority of the flag. A white triangle lies against the pole side, and inside this triangle is a yellow sun with eight rays. Each ray of the sun represents a province of The Philippines.
The left-to-right royal blue stripe stands for peace, truth, and justice, while the red stripe represents valor and patriotism. Lastly, the white triangle stands for equality, liberty, and brotherhood.
The Flag of the Philippines, also known as the “Three Stars and a Sun,” is a national symbol that represents the country’s struggle for independence. The flag features a white triangle with three stars, representing the three main island groups of the Philippines: Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.
The blue stripe symbolizes peace, truth, and justice, while the red stripe represents patriotism and valor. The sun in the middle of the flag has eight rays that represent the eight provinces that first rose up against Spanish colonial rule. The flag is raised on national holidays and occasions and is a source of pride for the Filipino people.
Philippines’ Native Trees
Narra Tree in Spring Bloom
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The Philippines is a biodiversity mecca filled with a rich variety of flora and fauna. Here, we take a look at some of the most amazing trees that are native to the Philippines and learn more about their origins, flowers, fruits, and more.
The Philippines is home to a rich variety of native trees that are important to the country’s ecology and biodiversity. Some of the most well-known native trees include the Narra, which is the national tree of the Philippines, and the Yakal, a hardwood tree that is highly valued for its strength and durability.
Other native trees include the Molave, a hardwood tree that is often used for furniture and construction, and the Banaba, a medicinal tree that has been used for centuries to treat various ailments.
Many of these native trees are threatened by deforestation and habitat destruction, and efforts are being made to preserve and protect them for future generations.
National Flower of the Philippines
Let’s discover the national flower of the Philippines: the Sampaguita. This fragrant beauty grows in tropical places and blooms at night!
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The national flower of the Philippines is the Sampaguita from the Oleaceae family. It’s a Filipino symbol of purity, simplicity, humility, and strength and the subject of many Filipino legends.
The National Flower of the Philippines is the Sampaguita, also known as the Arabian Jasmine. It is a small, white, fragrant flower that is widely cultivated throughout the country and is a symbol of purity, simplicity, humility, and strength.
The Sampaguita is often used in religious and cultural ceremonies and is also a popular ornamental plant. It is said that the scent of the Sampaguita represents the resilience and perseverance of the Filipino people, who are known for their strength and ability to overcome adversity.
The Sampaguita is a beloved symbol of the Philippines and a source of national pride for Filipinos everywhere.