Rescued Philippines hawk-eagle released in Aurora forest

BALER, Aurora, Philippines — A Philippine hawk-eagle rescued by a farmer in this town over the weekend has been released back to the wild.

Officials of the municipal environment and natural resources office (MENRO) said the eagle was found sick and weak in a field in Barangay Suklayin on Feb. 7.

The farmer brought the eagle home and notified the MENRO of his find.

The MENRO turned over the eagle to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), where the raptor was examined and treated.

The Philippine hawk-eagle, a unique bird of prey endemic to the country, is considered endangered and vulnerable to habitat loss and human disturbance.

Prompt reporting of sightings of wounded or sick raptors helps ensure the bird’s chance of survival, DENR officials said.

In recent years, several Philippine hawk?eagles have been rescued in different parts of the country, either found injured in forests, caught in nets or snares, or weakened in collision with other birds.

The DENR said that since 2021, there have been 15 Philippine hawk?eagles rescued and turned over to authorities for treatment and rehabilitation. Some of these raptors were released back into the wild.

The agency said the figure reflects strengthened wildlife protection and greater public cooperation in conservation efforts.

Wildlife experts say that every rescued hawk?eagle contributes to the survival of the species, which remains at risk due to deforestation and other threats.

The public has been urged to report sick, injured or distressed eagles so the birds can get the care they need.