KIDAPAWAN CITY, Cotabato — Swift coordination between environmental authorities, local governments, and concerned citizens led to the successful rescue of nine wild birds in separate incidents in Kidapawan City and Makilala on March 17, 2026, underscoring both the vulnerability of wildlife and the growing role of communities in conservation efforts.
The joint operation was carried out by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources–Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (DENR-PENRO) Cotabato and the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPAG), following same-day reports from local government units.
Birds Turned Over by Concerned Citizen
In Barangay Singao, Kidapawan City, a concerned resident voluntarily turned over eight birds that had been under temporary care. These included four Brahminy kites (Haliastur indus)—a distinctive reddish-brown raptor commonly found in coastal and lowland areas—and four Short-billed Brown Doves (Phapitreron brevirostris), a fruit-eating species endemic to the Philippines.
Authorities said the turnover reflects increasing public awareness of wildlife protection laws, as private possession of wild animals without proper permits is prohibited.
Peregrine Falcon Rescued After Reported Harassment
Meanwhile, in Barangay Garsika, Makilala, residents reported rescuing a weakened Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus), a migratory bird of prey known for its speed and precision hunting.
The bird, with an estimated wingspan of 38 centimeters, showed no visible injuries but appeared stressed and weak. Residents disclosed that it had been targeted in an attempted slingshot attack—an act that authorities warn can cause severe trauma or death to wildlife even without direct physical injury.
The incident was immediately reported to the barangay and the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO), which coordinated with DENR and OPAG for proper handling.
Protected Species Under Observation
All nine rescued birds are currently under close monitoring and health assessment at the Temporary Wildlife Rescue Center of PENRO Cotabato, in partnership with the Provincial Veterinary Office. Authorities said the animals will be evaluated for possible release back into their natural habitats once deemed fit.
The DENR noted that while the Brahminy kite, Peregrine Falcon, and Short-billed Brown Dove are currently classified as “Least Concern” under DENR Administrative Order No. 2019-09 and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), they remain protected under Republic Act No. 9147, or the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act.
Call for Vigilance and Protection
Environmental officials emphasized that human activities—ranging from illegal capture to harassment—continue to pose threats to wildlife, even to species not currently considered endangered.
They urged the public to report injured, captured, or threatened wildlife to authorities and to refrain from harming animals, stressing that community vigilance is crucial in safeguarding biodiversity.
“This operation highlights the importance of cooperation between citizens and government agencies,” officials said. “Protecting wildlife is a shared responsibility.”
The DENR and its partners reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening conservation efforts across Cotabato, as they continue to respond to wildlife incidents and promote environmental stewardship at the grassroots level.