Bulusan Rainforest resident fungi

These fan like fungi growing on a dead tree stump along the mountain trail of the dense and moist Bulusan Rainforest are not only pretty to look at. They provide a very important ecosystem service by breaking down dead organic matters. By the way, these organisms are classified neither as plants nor animals. They have a classification of their own as Fungi a separate Kingdom which includes mushrooms and molds.

Photo: Alma P. Gamil

Bulusan Volcano Natural Park, Philippines

Missing the boat

A choice between riding a boat around the lake or hiking the mossy trail of the Avatar (the movie) like Bulusan rainforest surrounding the lake was admittedly not easy. The possibility of finding a rare species made me choose the latter. Not remote since only a fraction of the flora and fauna of Bulusan rainforest is documented.

Photo: Alma P. Gamil

Bulusan Lake, Philippines

Bulusan Lake native

The rustic banca of a local fisherman, obviously a regular in Bulusan Lake effortlessly glides in the calm waters of the lake slightly drawing a silver line as it passes on its emerald surface — a stark contrast to the tourist boat near its path.

Photo: Alma P. Gamil
Bulusan Lake, Philippines

Bulusan Volcano Dreamscape

Bulusan sky is a canvas for the unexpected cloud formations that form around the volcano. If you are lucky enough to chance upon some remarkable formations be sure to get your camera ready for it changes within minutes. The volcanic heat probably causes these remarkable cloud shapes and forms. It is a daily treat for me living in a house with an azotea fronting a view of the dome-shaped Bulusan Volcano.

Photo: Alma P. Gamil

Bulusan, Sorsogon, Philippines

Mountain Trail

My search for the wild bamban plant with Inggo (in the photo) gave me the opportunity to set foot on this unique mountain passage formed by cutting a hill right in the middle. Minus the giant machinery to do this job, making this trail was a gigantic task. No date of construction was documented though locals attest that it has long been in existence in their village.

Photo: Alma P. Gamil

Dancalan, Bulusan, Sorsogon, Philippines

White wild flower

At first glance this is just an ordinary wild flower growing along the forest trail around Bulusan Lake. But wait. Look closely and you will notice a pistil shaped like a tongue (and quite sticky!) at the center of the symmetrical white petals. Adapted to the wild this dainty flower seems to be always ready to trap unsuspecting insects such as an ant for a meal.

Bulusan, Sorsogon, Philippines

Photo: Alma P. Gamil

Where’s the Bride?

A fisherman tending his nets by the water edge of Bulusan Lake looks like he is attending to the long veil of an invisible bride beside the tree (the groom). That moment I was so tempted to be a shoo- in (as the bride).  But then again…who will snap the picture?

Bulusan, Sorsogon, Philippines

Photo: Alma P. Gamil

Bulusan Lake Unknown Fact

The Zen like emerald beauty of Bulusan Lake is hands down enchanting. But she is mysterious too. According to a recent NGO assessment report this body of water is barely studied.

Bulusan, Sorsogon, Philippines

Photo: Alma P. Gamil

A Giant’s Message

I was rewarded with this beautiful message from my recent trek in Mount Bulusan: a heart formed from the silhouette of Giant fern leaves across my path. Isn’t this message touching?

Bulusan, Sorsogon, Philippines

Photo: Alma P. Gamil

A different kind of Leaf

Leaf find from a walk in the woods in the vicinity of  Bulusan Volcano Natural Park (BVNP). Notice the vein like pattern and a pair of  embossed dots row.

Bulusan, Sorsogon, Philippines

Photo: Alma P. Gamil