Philippine eagles freed in CDO
abs-cbnNEWS.com | 11/03/2009 11:30 PM
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BUKIDNON - Two Philippine Eagles, considered an endangered species, were released into the wild forests of Sumilao municipality in Bukidnon after almost a year in captivity.
The eagles, named Hineleban and Kalabugao, were set free in Mt. Kitanglad on October 29 after the birds were rescued by residents of Kalabugao town in Impasug-Ong municipality - about 15.35 miles northeast of Sumilao.
Both birds were placed in the care of the Philippine Eagle Foundation, which runs the Philippine Eagle Center that aims to conserve and protect Philippine Eagles. One of them, Kalabugao, was rescued after being shot by hunters in 2008.
Bukidnon Gov. Jose Maria Zubiri said that the Philippine Eagle Foundation and local residents should keep an eye on the Philippine Eagle populations in the area.
Radio and satellite transmitters were attached to Hineleban and Kalabugao before they were set free, so that authorities can monitor their movements.
The Philippine Eagle (Pithecophaga jeffryi), or Monkey-Eating Eagle, is considered one of the rarest and largest birds in the world.
Breeding pairs number less than 300 in the country, with the largest number of birds residing in Mindanao.
The eagle, characterized by its dark brown back and white undersides, prey on small mammals, reptiles like snakes and lizards, birds like owls, and even piglets and small dogs.
Their populations were severely affected by poaching and widespread deforestation. Report by Rod Bolivar, ABS-CBN Northern Mindanao.
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