A rare encounter with the Philippine flying lemur (Cynocephalus volans), locally known as “kagwang,” was documented during a biodiversity monitoring activity in Mt. Apo Natural Park from April 13 to 18, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources Soccsksargen said.
The sighting was recorded by the Mt. Apo Natural Park Protected Area Management Office (PAMO) Cotabato during a Biodiversity Monitoring System activity, which tracks wildlife presence in the protected area.
The nocturnal mammal was initially observed resting on a Mayapis tree before being attacked by crows, prompting it to glide swiftly to an Almon tree where it concealed itself among dense foliage.
Despite its name, the kagwang is neither a true lemur nor capable of powered flight. It belongs to the order Dermoptera and is known for its ability to glide using a membrane that allows it to travel distances of up to 100 meters.
“As a nocturnal and arboreal species that feeds on young leaves, flowers, and fruits, the kagwang plays an important role in forest ecology while also exhibiting unique maternal care by carrying its young within its gliding membrane. Its continued presence as an endemic species in Southern Philippines indicates a healthy and intact forest ecosystem in MANP,” DENR Soccsksargen said.
