Owl rescued in Valenzuela

MANILA, Philippines — A Philippine scops owl that hit a glass window of a house in Valenzuela has been rescued by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).

Reflective glass and intense artificial lights can disrupt birds’ navigation, especially at night, the DENR said yesterday.

“This incident shows the effects of urbanization on wildlife species, particularly on birds drawn to densely populated areas,” the agency said.

Building owners are advised to implement wildlife-friendly measures, including installing visual markers on glass surfaces and reducing intense nighttime lighting.

The owl has been turned over to the Biodiversity Management Bureau-Wildlife Rescue Center for rehabilitation before it is released.