Known to be the Land of Waterfalls in Iloilo, Lambunao also takes pride to have the largest Hornbill Breeding Facility in the world – Mariit Conservation Park. Established in 1993, the park has been maintained and run by West Visayas State University – College of Agriculture and Forestry. It is located at Brgy. Jayubo, Lambunao, Iloilo.
History
Through the years, Mariit is proud to have successfully captive breeding for threatened species in Visayas. These include the endangered Visayan Warty Pig in 1994 and Visayan Writhed Hornbill (‘Dolongan’) in 2005. Five months after the successful breeding of the Dolongan, it successfully fledged. Also, the park hosts the Visayan Spotted Deer, Racquet Tail Parrot (Native Pikoy ‘Dangag’), Visayan Tarictic Hornbill (‘Tariktik), wild boars, cloud rats and other species in the edge of extinction.
Mariit Conservation Park aimed to be a rescue and captive breeding center for endangered species. Also, they want to reestablish the quantity range of these species in their former numbers. Their goal is to preserve natural wildlife habitats for their continual survival, as well. Local government of Lambunao is trying to gain attention from local and international enthusiasts concerned with the environment to continue the maintenance and development of the park.
For donations, you can visit WVSU – La Paz or go directly at WVSU – INCA Campus.
Iloilo doesn’t just focus on tourist attractions but also wildlife preservation. Check out more of Iloilo’s areas – best for hiking and thrilling adventures!
