The Philippine Eagle (Pithecophaga jefferyi) is an endangered species native to the Philippines, primarily inhabiting the rainforests of Luzon, Samar, Leyte, and Mindanao. This majestic bird of prey is among the world’s largest, with a wingspan of approximately 2.2 meters (7.2 feet). The Philippine Eagle is the only member of its genus and is part of the subfamily Pithecophaga Circaetinae.

The Lifespan of the Philippine Eagle

The Philippine Eagle can live up to 41 years in captivity, as evidenced by a specimen in a Rome zoo. In the wild, the lifespan is estimated to be between 30 to 60 years, although this can vary based on environmental conditions and threats.

Breeding and Reproduction

Image source: Philippine_Eagle

The breeding cycle of the Philippine Eagle is a two-year process, with successful partners having only one offspring every two years. The breeding season is from October to December, with the chick hatching after 60 days and becoming a fledgling at 7 to 8 weeks. Females reach sexual maturity at 3 to 5 years, and males reach maturity at 4 to 7 years.

Breeding Cycle

• Breeding season: October to December
• Incubation period: 60 days
• Fledgling period: 7 to 8 weeks
• Female sexual maturity: 3 to 5 years
• Male sexual maturity: 4 to 7 years

Reproductive Rate

• Successful partners have one offspring every two years

Threats to the Philippine Eagle

Habitat destruction, hunting, and trapping are the primary threats to the Philippine Eagle, leading to its critically endangered status on the IUCN Red List. The low reproductive rate and challenges in its natural habitat mean that every successful breeding is crucial for the species’ survival.

Threats and Conservation Status

• Habitat destruction
• Hunting
• Trapping
• Critically endangered on the IUCN Red List

Conservation Efforts

Efforts are being made by the Philippine Eagle Foundation and international collaborations, such as the Peregrine Fund, to protect the species and reintroduce captive-bred eagles into suitable habitats.

Conservation Organizations

• Philippine Eagle Foundation
• Peregrine Fund

Unique Characteristics of the Philippine Eagle

The Philippine Eagle is the only member of its genus and is part of the subfamily Pithecophaga Circaetinae. It is among the world’s largest birds of prey, with a wingspan of approximately 2.2 meters (7.2 feet).

Size and Wingspan

• Wingspan: Approximately 2.2 meters (7.2 feet)
• One of the world’s largest birds of prey

Conclusion

The Philippine Eagle is a remarkable species with a lifespan that can reach up to 60 years in the wild. However, the species faces significant threats, including habitat destruction, hunting, and trapping, leading to its critically endangered status. Conservation efforts by organizations like the Philippine Eagle Foundation and the Peregrine Fund are crucial to protecting this majestic bird and ensuring its survival for generations to come.

References:
– https://genomics.senescence.info/species/entry.php?species=Pithecophaga_jefferyi
– https://www.activewild.com/philippine-eagle/
– https://animaldiversity.org/accounts/Pithecophaga_jefferyi/
– https://factanimal.com/philippine-eagle/