MISAMIS ORIENTAL — The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Region X is investigating the death of a mature Philippine Eagle after it was found near an electrical post in Sitio Panghaon, Barangay Guinalaban, Salay, Misamis Oriental.
The Philippine Eagle (Pithecophaga jefferyi), one of the country’s most threatened wildlife species, was discovered by a farmer at around 9 a.m. on October 1 while the farmer was visiting a nearby farm.
Barangay officials reported the discovery to the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) Gingoog City at around 11 a.m. the same day.
CENR Officer Atty. Noe V. Calipusan, together with personnel from the CENRO Gingoog City Enforcement and Monitoring Section and the Mt. Balatukan Range Natural Park (MBRNP), immediately proceeded to the area to conduct a field investigation. The team coordinated with Punong Barangay Wilfredo D. Banaag Jr. during the assessment.
Possible electrocution being investigated
Initial examination showed no apparent external wounds on the eagle. However, investigators observed burn-like marks on its feet.
Because the bird was found near an electrical post and power line, authorities are considering electrocution as a possible cause of death.
The finding remains preliminary, however. DENR said the actual cause of death can only be determined after further examination, particularly through a necropsy.
The eagle was reportedly last seen flying on September 30 between 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. It was discovered near the power line the following morning.
By the time the bird was examined, its remains were already emitting a foul odor, indicating that it may have been dead for some time before it was discovered.
Mature eagle found at site
The bird was identified as a mature Philippine Eagle measuring approximately 76 inches in wingspan. One wing measured about 36 inches, while its tail measured approximately 40.5 inches.
It was estimated to weigh around 5.25 kilograms, with a bill measuring approximately 3.18 inches, or about eight centimeters, in length.
Investigators also documented the presence of chickens, chicks and a leashed hound near the electrical post.
The presence of these animals was noted as part of the overall site assessment because domestic animals can potentially serve as prey for Philippine Eagles. Authorities, however, have not established any connection between these animals and the eagle’s death.
Remains turned over for necropsy
Following the field investigation, the eagle’s remains were secured by the Protected Area Management and Biodiversity Conservation Section (PAMBCS) of DENR Region X.
The remains were transported to the Bukidnon Provincial Zoo in Malaybalay City, Bukidnon, for proper safekeeping and handling.
On October 2, the remains were turned over to the Philippine Eagle Foundation (PEF) for necropsy and further examination.
The necropsy is expected to provide additional scientific evidence that could help determine whether electrocution caused the eagle’s death or whether another factor was responsible.
The results may also provide important information for the ongoing investigation and help authorities assess whether additional conservation or preventive measures may be necessary in the area.
Protecting a critically endangered species
The Philippine Eagle is classified as Critically Endangered and is regarded as one of the Philippines’ most important wildlife species.
Its survival depends heavily on the protection of remaining forest habitats and the reduction of threats in areas where wildlife habitats intersect with human settlements, agricultural areas, roads, power infrastructure and other developments.
The incident in Salay highlights the importance of determining potential risks to wildlife in areas where power infrastructure is located near habitats or feeding grounds used by Philippine Eagles and other species.
However, authorities have yet to establish that the electrical line caused the eagle’s death. The necropsy and continuing investigation are expected to provide the evidence needed to determine what happened.
DENR Region X reminded the public that every report involving wildlife can be important to conservation efforts.
The public is encouraged to immediately report sightings of Philippine Eagles and other wildlife, particularly animals that are injured, distressed or found dead, to the nearest DENR office or appropriate wildlife authorities.
Prompt reporting allows authorities and conservation organizations to conduct timely assessments, properly secure wildlife, preserve potential evidence and undertake appropriate conservation interventions.
For now, the death of the Philippine Eagle in Salay remains under investigation, with the final cause of death pending the results of the necropsy.