Apayao wildlife survey reveals rich amphibian, reptile diversity; underscores need for protection

Luna, Apayao – A recent wildlife survey in Apayao has underscored the need to protect the province's often-overlooked amphibians and reptiles after documenting a diverse range of species that play a vital role in maintaining healthy ecosystems.

Amphibians and reptiles are cold-blooded vertebrates that contribute significantly to ecological balance. They serve as both predators and prey, help control insect and rodent populations, contribute to nutrient cycling, and act as important indicators of environmental health.

According to the documentation survey conducted in May and featured through regional media, numerous amphibian and reptile species were recorded across various ecological habitats in the municipalities of Calanasan, Luna, and Pudtol.

The documentation activity was led by Filipino herpetologist Emerson Sy in partnership with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources–Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (DENR-CENRO) Calanasan.

In an interview with the Philippine Daily Inquirer published on June 10, Sy emphasized the importance of protecting wildlife species, noting that many of them are endemic to the Philippines and form part of the country's natural heritage.

“It is important that we protect and give importance to wildlife species, just as we do more charismatic faunal groups such as birds and mammals. These species are part of our national heritage, and many of them are found only in the Philippines,” he said.

The survey's findings further reinforce Apayao's reputation as a biodiversity hotspot. The province is home to the Biosphere Reserve of the Apayaos (BRyA), the country's fourth UNESCO-recognized biosphere reserve, highlighting the importance of continued conservation efforts to protect its unique and diverse wildlife.