The Philippine Eagle (Pithecophaga jefferyi) is the largest of the extant eagles in the world in terms of length and wing surface area. As the national bird of the Philippines, it is a critically endangered species that primarily inhabits moist and montane forests. While the Philippine eagle’s diet is known to include a variety of prey, such as monkeys, birds, flying foxes, and even small pigs and dogs, there is no specific information available to confirm whether they eat cats.
The Philippine Eagle’s Diet
Philippine eagles are carnivores and their diet includes a diverse range of prey:
- Monkeys
- Birds
- Flying foxes
- Giant cloud-rats
- Asian palm civets
- Flying squirrels
- Tree squirrels
- Fruit bats
- Reptiles (large snakes and lizards)
- Other birds of prey
- Flying lemurs (in some locations)
- Young pigs and small dogs
They primarily use two hunting techniques:
- Still-hunting: Watching for prey activity while sitting almost motionlessly on a branch near the canopy.
- Perch-hunting: Periodically gliding from one perch to another, often working their way gradually down from the canopy.
Hunting Behavior and Prey Preferences
Image source: Philippine_Eagle
Philippine eagles are known to be skilled and versatile hunters. They have been observed hunting in pairs, with one bird distracting a troop of monkeys while the other swoops in for the kill. Their large size and powerful talons allow them to capture a wide range of prey, including some relatively large animals.
However, there is no specific information available in the sources provided about whether Philippine eagles actively hunt or consume domestic cats. Their diet seems to be focused on wild prey species found in their natural forest habitats.
Conservation Status and Threats
The Philippine eagle is classified as Critically Endangered (CR) on the IUCN Red List, with a total population size estimated to be around 250-750 individuals. The primary threat to this species is habitat loss due to high levels of deforestation throughout its range.
Killing a Philippine eagle is punishable under Philippine law by up to 12 years in prison and heavy fines, underscoring the importance of protecting this iconic national bird.
Conclusion
In summary, while the Philippine eagle is known to be a skilled and versatile predator, the available information does not indicate that they specifically target or consume domestic cats as part of their diet. Their prey preferences seem to be focused on wild species found in their natural forest habitats. The conservation of this critically endangered species remains a priority in the Philippines.
References:
– The Peregrine Fund – Philippine Eagle
– The Animal Files – Philippine Eagle
– Wikipedia – Philippine Eagle
– Animalia.bio – Philippine Eagle
– Carnivora.net – Philippine Eagle
