Palawan Peacock Pheasant (Polyplectron Napoleonis) Species Distribution Modeling: A Review of the Impact of Typhoon Rai/Odette on the Diversity and Distribution of an Endemic Bird Species

Typhoon Odette (Rai) caused significant shifts in the habitat suitability of the Palawan Peacock Pheasant (Polyplectron napoleonis), an endemic bird species, within Cleopatra’s Needle Forest Reserve and Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park. Post-typhoon analysis using MaxEnt modeling revealed that elevation and land cover became dominant factors influencing its distribution, surpassing precipitation and aspect, likely due to extensive forest damage. The study suggests that conservation efforts must adapt to these changes, as suitable habitats appear to be migrating toward highland forests—possibly in response to human disturbance rather than climate change, given the species' temperature tolerance. The findings underscore the need for reevaluating mitigation strategies against typhoon impacts on forest ecosystems.

Cruz, M. E. (2024). Palawan Peacock Pheasant (Polyplectron Napoleonis) Species Distribution Modeling: A Review of the Impact of Typhoon Rai/Odette on the Diversity and Distribution of an Endemic Bird Species. Bedan Research Journal, 9(1), 28–52. https://doi.org/10.58870/berj.v9i1.64