The Philippine eagle (Pithecophaga jefferyi), also known as the monkey-eating eagle or great Philippine eagle, is a critically endangered species of eagle endemic to the Philippines. The species is facing several threats, including deforestation, shooting, and other human activity, which have led to a significant decline in its population.

Deforestation: The Primary Threat

Deforestation is the most significant threat to the Philippine eagle. The old-growth forests that the eagle relies on for its habitat are being lost at a high rate, with most of the forest in the lowlands owned by logging companies. This loss of habitat is a major factor in the decline of the Philippine eagle population.

Hunting and Poaching

Image source: Philippine_Eagle

In addition to habitat loss, the Philippine eagle also faces threats from hunting and poaching. The eagle is occasionally caught in traps laid by local people for deer, and it is also sometimes shot by hunters. This direct human-caused mortality is a significant threat to the species.

Other Threats

Other threats to the Philippine eagle include mining, pollution, exposure to pesticides that affect breeding, and poaching. These factors can also contribute to the decline of the species.

Conservation Efforts

Despite the many threats facing the Philippine eagle, there are ongoing efforts to protect the species. The Philippine Eagle Foundation is one of the organizations leading the conservation efforts, and they have had some success in captive breeding and reintroducing individuals into the wild.

Captive Breeding and Reintroduction

The Philippine Eagle Foundation has produced Philippine eagles through captive breeding and has reintroduced some individuals into the wild. This is an important part of their conservation efforts, as it helps to increase the population of the species.

Community-Based Conservation

The Philippine Eagle Foundation also works with local communities to develop community-based conservation of critical habitat. This involves educating local people about the importance of the Philippine eagle and its habitat, and working with them to protect the species.

International Recognition

The Philippine eagle has also received international recognition for its conservation status. The IUCN and BirdLife International listed the species as critically endangered in 1994, and the Zoological Society of London listed it as one of the top 15 EDGE species, making it the Philippines’ most “evolutionary distinct and globally endangered” species.

Conclusion

The Philippine eagle is a critically endangered species that faces a number of threats, including deforestation, hunting, and poaching. Despite these challenges, there are ongoing efforts to protect the species, including captive breeding, reintroduction, and community-based conservation. With continued support and conservation efforts, there is hope that the Philippine eagle can be saved from extinction.

References:
– Critically endangered Philippine eagle hangs on despite horde of threats
– Philippine eagle
– Philippine Eagle
– Philippine Eagle Foundation
– The Issue