Experience nature's untamed beauty
Wildlife Directory of Patuyo Island
At Patuyo Island, we don’t claim to be wildlife or biodiversity experts — but we are passionate nature lovers. Our joy comes from living close to the land, observing the beauty around us, and sharing that wonder with others. Whenever possible, we reach out to experts, researchers, and conservationists to learn more and build meaningful connections. For us, it’s not about pretending to know it all, but about staying curious, respectful, and open to understanding nature more deeply.
A biodiverse paradise
Our island’s diverse ecosystems host an incredible array of wildlife, from the vibrant marine life beneath the waves to the exotic birds that fill our skies. Patuyo Island is committed to preserving these natural habitats through sustainable practices that protect our wildlife and provide guests with a truly immersive nature experience.
Feathered friends
The lush canopies of Patuyo Island serve as a haven for enthusiastic birdwatchers. With a variety of native species, each visit promises a new, exciting sighting. From the melodious calls of the kingfishers to the majestic flight of the eagles, our guided birdwatching tours provide a rare glimpse into the lives of these fascinating creatures.
Marine splendor
Snorkel in some of the clearest waters in the world, surrounded by coral reefs that teem with life. The Linapacan area, known for its crystal-clear visibility, offers a unique opportunity to swim alongside sea turtles, gaze at the graceful dances of colorful fish, and maybe even laugh with Nemo the clownfish. Our coral reefs are not just beautiful - they are vital to marine biodiversity and are protected with utmost care.
Night skies and nocturnal life
When the sun sets, Patuyo Island transforms into a starlit realm. Our "Dark Sky" nights, free from city light pollution, offer guests the most spectacular view of the galaxy. Additionally, nocturnal wildlife emerges, offering a glimpse into the mysterious activities of our island's other inhabitants. From ghost crabs scuttling along moonlit beaches to the rare sights of nocturnal birds and mammals, every evening offers a new adventure.
Our wildlife and nature ambassador
Anders Kofoed
Anders holds an MSc in Biology with a specialization in Evolutionary Ecology from the University of Copenhagen. With over two decades of experience in wildlife education and conservation, he has become one of Denmark’s most respected voices in biodiversity. As the official expert on biodiversity and zoology for TV2, and a host of numerous nature programs, Anders has inspired countless people to connect with the natural world.
Protection of sea turtles
One of Anders’ lifelong missions has been the protection of sea turtles, an effort that has led him to work hands-on with conservation projects around the world. His dedication aligns perfectly with the vision of Patuyo Island, where secluded beaches provide sanctuary to these majestic creatures.
Anders Kofoed’s role as our ambassador strengthens our commitment to environmental stewardship and the preservation of these unique ecosystems.
From leading the Sea Turtle Protection Society in Greece to founding the Busua Beach Sea Turtle Protection Society, Anders has dedicated much of his life to protecting marine life. He is also a founding board member of the NGO Plastic Change and a current member of the WWF Presidium in Denmark.
Why Patuyo Island? Anders’ decision to join Patuyo Island Experience as our Wildlife and Nature Ambassador stems from his deep commitment to preserving Earth’s most precious ecosystems. After learning about the rich biodiversity of Palawan and the unique species found on Patuyo Island, Anders was eager to lend his expertise and passion to our efforts. He believes that this bio-blitz is not just an opportunity to explore, but a vital mission to document and protect species that may be found nowhere else on the planet.
In His Own Words: "When I first heard about Patuyo Island, I was captivated by its potential to reveal species and ecosystems that are truly unique. Being part of this project is not just a professional commitment; it’s a personal passion. I’m excited to contribute to the exploration and conservation of such a remarkable place."
Nature’s Underwater Masterpiece
The Heart of the Coral Triangle
Patuyo is uniquely located in one of the most extraordinary places on Earth: the Coral Triangle, often called the “Amazon of the Seas.” This region is recognized as the global center of marine biodiversity—home to more species of corals, fish, and marine life than anywhere else on the planet.
Stretching across the tropical waters of the Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, and Timor-Leste, the Coral Triangle may only cover 1.5% of the ocean’s surface, but it holds:
76% of the world’s coral species
Over 2,000 species of reef fish
6 of the world’s 7 marine turtle species
For snorkelers, this is the ultimate paradise: a living kaleidoscope of colors, where every dip reveals another hidden wonder.
At Patuyo, you are not just visiting a place, you are immersing yourself in one of Earth’s most unique and irreplaceable wonders.
Wildlife Directory
Patuyo Island is alive with creatures great and small, and we want to celebrate every one of them. The Wildlife Directory is a growing collection of the fauna and biodiversity found here, from the common to the rare, the tiny to the majestic.
Black Naped Oriole
(Oriolus chinensis)
Beautiful but not a rare sight in Patuyo. Feeds on fruits and sips nectar—when it's not busy stealing bird chicks.
Green Turtle
(Chelonia mydas)
One of the largest species of sea turtles. It can grow up to 1.5 meters in length and weigh between 100-200 kg. The Green Turtle is classified as endangered on the IUCN Red List.
The female always returns to her birthplace to lay eggs, often after traveling thousands of kilometers. A single female can lay 100-200 eggs per nest.
Maned Forest Lizard
(Bronchocela jubata)
The Maned Forest Lizards often falls from trees in its eager hunt for insects. Happily lays eggs in soil beneath bushes. Raises its crest when feeling threatened or trying to impress the ladies.
Palawan Monitor Lizard
(Varanus palawanensis)
The Palawan Monitor Lizard is the world's second-largest lizard, only surpassed by the Komodo dragon. It is endemic to Palawan, and the locals in Patuyo call it "Bayawak." It happily feeds on crabs, swims well—and runs faster than you.
Photo by: Erickson Tabayag
Blue Paradise Flycatcher
(Terpsiphone cyanescens)
The Blue-gray Paradise Flycatcher is endemic to Palawan and nearby areas. A truly beautiful little flycatcher. Perfect if you’re not a fan of mosquitoes.
Barred Buttonquail
(Turnix ocellatus)
Buttonquails are amusing because they’re modern feminists. The females have multiple males and fight among themselves for them. Once they’ve laid their eggs, they leave the male to incubate them and move on to find a new partner.
Lovely Sunbird
(Aethopyga shelleyi)
One of the most colorful sunbirds in the Philippines. Males display iridescent reds and purples, while females are olive green. Often seen sipping nectar in flowering shrubs. Endemic to Palawan.
Photo by: Erickson Tabayag
Two-striped Coral Snake
(Calliophis bilineatus)
A small, venomous snake endemic to the Philippines. Easily recognized by its two pale stripes running along a dark body. It is highly secretive and usually hides under leaf litter or fallen logs. Despite its venom, it poses little threat to humans due to its reclusive nature.
Scorpion
(Chaerilus sp.)
A small forest scorpion from the Chaerilus genus, often found under rocks or logs. Though intimidating in appearance, it’s generally non-aggressive and poses little danger to humans. Scorpions play a vital role in keeping insect populations in balance.
Spot-throated Flameback
(Dinopium everetti)
A striking woodpecker endemic to the Philippines. Easily identified by its golden back and spotted throat. It nests in tree cavities and helps control tree-boring insects. Classified as near-threatened due to forest fragmentation.
Photo by: Erickson Tabayag
Mantanani Scops Owl
(Otus mantananensis cuyensis)
A small, nocturnal owl with a soft hoot and cryptic plumage. Endemic to islands off Palawan, including nearby Cuyo. It roosts in tree hollows during the day and hunts insects and small vertebrates at night.
Photo by: Erickson Tabayag
Lesser Short-nosed Fruit Bat
(Cynopterus brachyotis)
A small fruit bat that plays a key role in seed dispersal and pollination. It has a dog-like face and short, rounded snout. These bats roost in trees and forage at dusk, often visiting bananas, figs, and mango trees.
Photo by: Erickson Tabayag
Brown-throated Sunbird
(Anthreptes malacensis)
A common sunbird with metallic green upperparts and, in males, a rich brown throat. It feeds on nectar and occasionally insects. Highly adaptable and often seen in gardens, forests, and mangroves.
Photo by: Erickson Tabayag
Collared Kingfisher
(Todiramphus chloris)
Larger than the Common Kingfisher and often seen perched along the coast or near open forest. It has a striking turquoise back and white collar. Feeds on crabs, insects, and small reptiles.
Photo by: Erickson Tabayag
Common Kingfisher
(Alcedo atthis)
A dazzling blue-and-orange bird that hunts small fish from perches above still water. Its rapid flight and sharp call make it easy to spot along coastal streams. A solitary and territorial bird.
Photo by: Erickson Tabayag
White-vented Shama
(Copsychus niger)
A melodious songbird native to the Philippines. Known for its glossy black feathers and contrasting white belly. It prefers dense undergrowth and is often heard before it is seen. A symbol of tropical forests slowly fading due to habitat loss.
Photo by: Erickson Tabayag
BioBlitz 2025
We already knew beforehand that Patuyo Island was an incredibly beautiful place—rich in both wildlife and warm, welcoming locals. But during our BioBlitz from February 7th to 9th, 2025, the island truly exceeded our expectations. With over 200 species sightings recorded, it was a huge success and a testament to the island’s rich biodiversity. It’s definitely something we want to repeat again soon.
Biodiversity, locals, and a little bit of magic—watch the weekend that made us fall even harder for Patuyo: