Rare Philippine eagle owl spotted in Pasonanca Natural Park

The Philippine Eagle Owl (Bubo philippensis), one of the largest and rarest owl species in the country, was recently spotted at an elevation of around 1,400 meters in Pasonanca Natural Park. This rare sighting on 21 January 2025, highlights the park’s ecological importance as a sanctuary for vulnerable wildlife.

The Philippine Eagle Owl, with a wingspan of up to 120 cm, is classified as "Vulnerable" due to threats such as habitat loss from illegal logging, land conversion, mining, and poaching for the illegal pet trade. With only 2,500 to 10,000 mature adults left, the species' population continues to decline.

Efforts to protect the owl include breeding programs, like the successful captive breeding by the Negros Forests and Ecological Foundation (NFEFI) in 2005. The species plays a vital role in controlling rodent populations, helping maintain balance in its ecosystem.

While the sighting in Pasonanca Park is encouraging, continued conservation efforts are crucial. Protecting the owl’s habitats and enforcing laws against illegal activities are essential to ensuring the species’ survival for future generations.