This island serves as a sanctuary for migratory birds like the
Sooty tern, about 4,190,
Brown noddy, about 45, and
Greater crested tern with 32, which are considered vulnerable in the
Philippine Red List of Threatened Fauna. The Palawan Council for Sustainable Development (PCSD) is tasked to protect at least these three
endangered species of birds endemic to the 7.9-hectare island. The Island hosts a sanctuary to 4,300 migratory birds that travel from the north to as far as the
Great Barrier Reef in Australia. “This highlights how integral Palawan is to
Global Ecology and Biogeography and the world’s bird populations. Endangering this critical habitat would have a significant impact on
global biodiversity,” said PCSD Executive Director Teodoro Jose Matta, citing Republic Act 9147, "Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act". Its surroundings are highly phosphatized such that superphosphate materials can be mined out on a small-scale basis. Near the fringes of the breakwaters (approx. 2 miles (3 km) from the island), intact hard coral reefs were observed to retain their natural environment and beautiful tropical fishes were seen colonizing these coral beds of varying colors. It is also covered with coconut trees, bushes and grass. It is 580 m long, on the edge of a submerged reef. ==Philippine occupation==