Cotabato, October 30, 2024 – A rare rescue operation unfolded in Cotabato as a female adult eastern grass owl (Tyto longimembris) was turned over to the Mount Apo Natural Park Protected Area Management Office (MANP PAMO) by local resident Mr. Allin Espele. The owl, discovered perched on a tree in Mr. Espele’s yard, wore a ring band with a name inscribed, sparking a swift response by the local wildlife team.
Courtesy of DENR SOCCSKSARGEN.
Upon receiving the owl, MANP PAMO arranged its immediate transport to the Kidapawan City Veterinarian Office, where a health assessment confirmed the owl was in good physical condition. However, experts noted its wings had been trimmed, limiting its ability to fly over long distances. Due to these findings, veterinarians recommended a period of rehabilitation to restore its flight capability.
The owl was then transferred to the DENR 12 Regional Wildlife Rescue Center (WRC), where specialists will monitor its health, ensuring it regains the strength necessary for eventual release back into the wild. Rehabilitation efforts at WRC include careful observation and managed care to facilitate the regrowth of its feathers and build resilience for its reintroduction into natural grassland habitats.
Eastern grass owls, known for their distinctive heart-shaped faces and soft, patterned plumage, are nocturnal hunters that primarily inhabit grassland regions. While the species is listed as “Least Concern” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), its population faces ongoing risks from habitat loss. Conservation efforts like this rescue underscore the importance of safeguarding such species and ensuring their vital ecological roles.
In a statement, MANP PAMO expressed gratitude for Mr. Espele’s quick action and urged all residents to promptly report any wildlife sightings to the nearest Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) office. Such community involvement, they noted, is essential in supporting regional conservation initiatives that allow wildlife to thrive in their natural habitats.
