The Philippine Eagle: The Pride and National Bird of the Philippines

A Symbol of Strength, Freedom, and Filipino Pride

The Philippine Eagle (Pithecophaga jefferyi) is one of the most magnificent and rarest birds in the world. Recognized as the national bird of the Philippines, it is also known as the Monkey-Eating Eagle due to its historical diet.

What is the Philippine Eagle?

The Philippine Eagle is an endangered bird species that is native only to the Philippines. It is one of the largest eagles in the world, with an impressive wingspan and powerful build.

Physical Characteristics

• Size: The Philippine Eagle is among the largest and strongest eagles in the world, reaching up to 102 cm (3.35 feet) in length.
• Wingspan: It has a wingspan of about 2.2 meters (7.2 feet), allowing it to soar high above forests.
• Weight: Adult eagles can weigh between 4.5 to 8 kg (9.9 to 17.6 lbs), with females generally being larger than males.
• Appearance: The Philippine Eagle is known for its brown and white feathers, a majestic crest of long feathers on its head, and piercing blue-gray eyes that help it spot prey from great distances.

Where Does the Philippine Eagle Live?

The Philippine Eagle is primarily found in four major islands of the Philippines:

1. Luzon – Sierra Madre Mountain Range
2. Leyte – Forested areas
3. Samar – Remote, untouched forests
4. Mindanao – The largest known population is found here

These birds require large territories of dense, old-growth tropical rainforests to survive, as they rely on tall trees for nesting and hunting. Unfortunately, deforestation and human activities have significantly reduced their natural habitat.

Why is the Philippine Eagle the National Bird of the Philippines?

The Philippine Eagle was officially declared the national bird of the Philippines in 1995 through Proclamation No. 615, replacing the Maya bird. It was chosen because:

• Symbol of Strength and Freedom: The Philippine Eagle’s powerful build and dominant presence symbolize the resilience and independence of the Filipino people.
• Unique to the Philippines: This bird is found nowhere else in the world, making it an important national treasure.
• Represents Filipino Values: The eagle's loyalty to its mate (monogamous for life) and strong parental instincts align with Filipino family values.

What Does the Philippine Eagle Eat?

The Philippine Eagle is a top predator in its ecosystem, meaning it plays a crucial role in maintaining balance. Despite its old name, “Monkey-Eating Eagle”, it doesn’t rely solely on monkeys.

Diet Includes:

• Monkeys (e.g., Philippine long-tailed macaque)
• Flying lemurs
• Civets
• Snakes
• Birds
• Large lizards

The eagle hunts using its powerful talons and keen eyesight, spotting prey from far distances before swooping down at high speeds.

Why is the Philippine Eagle Endangered?

The Philippine Eagle is critically endangered, with less than 400 individuals remaining in the wild. The main threats to their survival include:

1. Deforestation – Large-scale logging, illegal land conversion, and mining activities have destroyed its natural habitat.
2. Hunting and Poaching – Despite strict laws, some locals still hunt the eagle for food or trade.
3. Climate Change – Increasing temperatures and extreme weather affect their food supply and nesting sites.
4. Human Encroachment – Expanding farms and human settlements force eagles to move to smaller, unsuitable habitats.

Conservation Efforts to Protect the Philippine Eagle

Several organizations and government programs are working tirelessly to save the Philippine Eagle from extinction.

1. Philippine Eagle Foundation (PEF)

This nonprofit organization is dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and conservation of the Philippine Eagle. The Philippine Eagle Center in Davao serves as a sanctuary where captive breeding programs help increase their population.

2. Philippine Laws Protecting the Eagle

The Philippine government has imposed strict laws to protect the species:

• Republic Act No. 9147 (Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act) – Hunting or killing a Philippine Eagle is punishable by up to 12 years in prison and a fine of ₱1 million.
• Protected Areas – The government has designated various forest reserves and sanctuaries to protect the eagle’s habitat.

3. International Conservation Efforts

Organizations like the IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) and the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) support conservation programs through funding, research, and awareness campaigns.

Interesting Facts About the Philippine Eagle

• It takes 5-7 years for a Philippine Eagle to mature and start breeding.
• A mating pair stays together for life and only lays one egg every two years.
• The chick is raised by both parents for several months before it learns to fly and hunt.
• The eagle’s lifespan in the wild is around 30-40 years, but some captive eagles have lived longer.
• The Philippine Eagle was first discovered in 1896 by British naturalist John Whitehead, who noticed it feeding on monkeys.

How Can You Help Save the Philippine Eagle?

Everyone can play a role in saving the Philippine Eagle and ensuring it remains a symbol of the country’s pride for generations.

Ways to Help:

✅ Support conservation organizations like the Philippine Eagle Foundation.
✅ Avoid buying products linked to deforestation, such as illegal timber.
✅ Report illegal hunting or deforestation to local authorities.
✅ Educate others about the importance of protecting this endangered species.
✅ Visit the Philippine Eagle Center and participate in awareness programs.

Protecting the Philippine Eagle

The Philippine Eagle is a symbol of Filipino strength, freedom, and national pride. As one of the rarest and most majestic eagles in the world, it represents the rich biodiversity of the Philippines. However, with its population declining due to habitat destruction and illegal hunting, conservation efforts are more critical than ever.

Protecting the Philippine Eagle ensures that future generations will still have the opportunity to witness this incredible bird soaring across the Philippine skies. By raising awareness and supporting conservation initiatives, we can help save the King of the Philippine Skies from extinction.

Nipino.com is committed to providing you with accurate and genuine content. Let us know your opinion by clicking HERE.