The Philippine eagle (Pithecophaga jefferyi) is considered the largest of the extant eagles in the world in terms of length and wing surface area. This majestic bird can reach heights of up to 3 feet (0.9 meters) tall, making it one of the most impressive raptors on the planet.

The Impressive Size of the Philippine Eagle

The Philippine eagle is not only tall, but it also boasts an impressive wingspan that can range from 6 feet to 6 feet 7 inches (184 to 202 cm). This massive wingspan, combined with its length of up to around 102 cm (3 ft 4 in), makes the Philippine eagle one of the largest raptors in the world.

Measurement	Range
Height	Up to 3 feet (0.9 meters)
Wingspan	6 feet to 6 feet 7 inches (184 to 202 cm)
Body Length	Up to around 102 cm (3 ft 4 in)

Females of the species are typically larger than males, with a top weight of 8 kg (17.6 lb), while males typically weigh around 4.7 kg to 6.2 kg (10.4 to 13.7 lb). The wingspan of female Philippine eagles is also larger than that of males, with the largest females frequently having wingspans in excess of 2 m (6 ft 6 in).

Unique Physical Features

Image source: Philippine_Eagle

The Philippine eagle is not just impressive in size, but it also has some unique physical features that set it apart from other eagle species. One of the most notable features is its giant, curved talons, which are larger and arguably as sharp as those of a tiger or lion. These powerful talons allow the eagle to capture and kill prey, including primates and even deer.

Cultural Significance

In addition to its physical attributes, the Philippine eagle is also notable for its cultural significance in the Philippines. It is the national bird of the country and is considered a symbol of Filipino national identity and pride. This highlights the importance of conservation efforts to protect this magnificent bird and its habitat.

Conservation Efforts

Unfortunately, the Philippine eagle is a critically endangered species, with only around 180-500 mature individuals remaining in the wild. This is primarily due to habitat loss from deforestation, logging, and expanding agriculture. 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 species.

Conclusion

The Philippine eagle is a truly remarkable bird, standing out as one of the largest and most impressive raptors in the world. With its towering height of up to 3 feet (0.9 meters), massive wingspan, and unique physical features, the Philippine eagle is a symbol of the Philippines’ natural heritage and a testament to the wonders of the natural world. However, its critically endangered status serves as a reminder of the urgent need for conservation efforts to protect this magnificent species and its habitat.

References:
– https://birdfact.com/articles/philippine-eagle-size
– https://animals.howstuffworks.com/birds/largest-eagles.htm
– https://animalia.bio/philippine-eagle