The Philippine eagle is only found on 4 of the 7,000 Philippine islands. This unique and powerful bird of prey is the national bird of the Philippines and is highly protected. If one is killed there is a hefty fine and up to 12 years in prison. These eagles are considered to be one of the largest birds of prey in regards to length and wing surface. Unfortunately, this eagle is one of the most endangered raptors in the world. Philippine eagles are threatened by hunting and habitat destruction. They are listed as Critically Endangered by the IUCN.
First the Stats…
Scientific name: Pithecophaga jefferyi
Weight: Up to 17.6 lbs.
Length: Up to 3 feet
Wingspan: Up to 7.3 feet
Lifespan: Up to 60 years
Now on to the Facts!
1.) These eagles are diurnal (active during the day).
2.) They prey on birds, bats, snakes, rats, small deer, flying lemurs, flying squirrels, palm civets, and monkeys.
3.) This species of raptor has no predators as it is an apex species.
4.) There are only about 750 total Philippine eagles left in the wild.
5.) In Paranas, Samar, in 1896 British naturalist John Whitehead discovered the Philippine eagle.
But wait, there’s more on the Philippine eagle!
6.) Construction of giant stick nests takes place high in the main fork of trees.
7.) Philippine eagles are monogamous (mate for life).
Did you know…?
The Philippine Eagle was the official mascot at the Southeast Asian Games in 2005.
8.) Females lay a single large white egg that is incubated for 2 months.
Now a Short Philippine Eagle Video!
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