Panagbaswit: A Traditional Bird-Catching Practice in Barangay Reynado

 Panagbaswit: A Traditional Bird-Catching Practice in Barangay Reynado

Panagbaswit is an indigenous bird-trapping practice in Barangay Reynado, Bayambang, Pangasinan that reflects the community’s traditional knowledge of nature and wildlife behavior. Passed down through generations, this practice demonstrates the resourcefulness and skill of local residents in utilizing simple, locally sourced materials to sustain their livelihood and social traditions.

At the heart of panagbaswit is the baswit, a traditional trapping device crafted from bamboo. One end of the bamboo is thinned to allow it to bend, to which a string is securely tied. This bent section is then carefully set in place using a smaller bamboo piece, approximately seven to eight inches long, whose ends are anchored into the ground to form a subtle arc. The trap is designed with precision and patience, relying on the hunter’s understanding of the pigeons’ movements and natural habits.

Economically, panagbaswit provides supplementary income for families in the community. Birds caught through this method are often sold in local markets or shared with neighbors, while some are prepared as food for household consumption.

Note: Salaret or salarek is another Pangasinan term for maybe another sort of bird trap. I wonder if this one is the same as baswit.

Culture Mappers: Bayambang National High School Students