Look! Ateneo Publishes Coloring Books Plus Free-To-Download Flashcards

Growing up, we’ve been so surrounded by Western culture that the first animals and plants we learn about don’t even exist on our own shores.

It’s a pity since the Philippines is one of the most biodiverse places globally, with over 20,000 species that can only be found in the country. Some of them even thrive in our own backyards!

Books to help your kids learn about Philippine wildlife

Thankfully, there are now many resources to help us foster a love for local flora and fauna in our own kids. Here are five books and learning materials that will help your kids appreciate the wonders of Philippine wildlife.

The Ateneo Wild Coloring Book Series (Php395 each)

Language: English / Format: Softcover

It’s easy to think the only animals in the city are Maya birds and strays. But according to the book’s publisher, Ateneo Institute of Sustainability, all kinds of wildlife can be found in pockets of greenery like schools, parks, cemeteries, and even gardens and empty lots.

Each coloring book includes tips for finding and identifying the featured plants and animals in your own garden. Enjoy coloring the detailed illustrations with your kids, and try spotting these birds, butterflies, plants, and trees around the city.

The Ateneo Wild Coloring Book Series is available for purchase on Lazada and Shopee.

The City Wild: Urban Biodiversity from A-Z (free)

Language: English / Format: Downloadable PDF

Another work from the Ateneo Wild and Ateneo Institute of Sustainability are these handy flashcards illustrated by Inya De Vera.

Published by the Forest Foundation Philippines, the flashcards are free to download on the Ateneo Institute of Sustainability website. There are three versions available: one for back-to-back printing, one for printing letter cards only, and a full-screen version you can view on your tablet or any other electronic device.

A First Look at Philippine Birds, Butterflies, Fishes (Php350)

Language: English / Format: Board Book

Why learn about zebras and lions when we can discover the Palawan Peacock Pheasant and Whale Shark? Authored by Maria Elena Paterno and illustrated by Crispin Dayao, Jr., this book is sure to satisfy our kids’ curiosity about Philippine biodiversity.

Available for purchase on Tahanan Books and The Learning Basket.

A First Look at Philippine Fruits, Flowers, & Trees (Php350)

Language: English / Format: Board Book

This board book authored by Lolita J. Bulalacao, Ph.D., is perfect for introducing babies to local plants, fruits, and flowers, especially with its eye-catching illustrations by Crispin Dayao, Jr.

Available for purchase on Tahanan Books and The Learning Basket.

Bird Flight (Php295 for English edition, Php215 for Filipino edition)

Language: English and Filipino / Format: Softcover

This novel by Carla M. Pacis is a must-read for any budding bookworm! The story revolves around a group of Philippine birds held in captivity by a private collector.

When a vulnerable baby Sulu Hornbill — one of the last of her kind — is brought into the cage, they rally to care for her and hatch a plan to find her a mate. To do so, they must escape the aviary and fly the length of the Philippines to return her to her natural habitat.

Available in English and Filipino on Anvil Publishing.