The Tamaraw

The Tamaraw is an endemic species of bovine located only in the Philippines, specifically in the island of Mindoro. Pre-historically, its distribution spread from its modern day habitats to as far as Northern Luzon in the Pleistocene Period.

However, beginning in the 18th and 19th centuries, humans began settling the island of Mindoro. This influx of settlers disturbed the local ecosystem, and the commencement of activities such as logging and intensive agriculture impacted the Tamaraw population to the point that current estimates of the wild Tamaraw population range from 30 to 200 individuals, an appallingly low number that places it in the category of critically endangered.

It survives in key conservation sites in Occidental Mindoro, such as Iglit-Baco National Park.

Be part of the effort to conserve this wonderful species, known as a symbol of national pride that reflects diligence and hardwork.