AN endangered South Philippine Hawk-Eagle soars back into the wild, leading the release of eight rescued and rehabilitated wildlife species into their natural habitat at Mahagnao Volcano Natural Park.
PHOTOGRAPH courtesy of Mahagnao Volcano Natural Park
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TACLOBAN CITY — Eight rescued and rehabilitated wild animals, including two endangered bird species, were released back into their natural habitat at the Mahagnao Volcano Natural Park (MVNP) in Burauen, Leyte.
Dr. Mark Anthony Machica, veterinarian of the Regional Wildlife Rescue Center (RWRC) under the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office in Leyte, said the animals released included a Philippine Hanging Parrot, South Philippine Hawk-Eagle, four Philippine Ducks, and two Black-chinned Fruit Doves.
The Philippine Hanging Parrot, locally known as kulasisi, is classified as Critically Endangered under Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Administrative Order No. 2019-09 due to severe threats to its population.
Meanwhile, the South Philippine Hawk-Eagle, also known as Pinsker’s Hawk-Eagle, is listed as Endangered on the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List, with an estimated remaining population of only 1,300 to 3,600 mature individuals, a number that continues to decline.
Machica urged the public to immediately turn over injured, displaced, or rescued wildlife to the nearest DENR office or the Regional Wildlife Rescue Center to ensure they receive proper medical care and rehabilitation before being released back into the wild.
He also reminded the public that the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act prohibits the hunting, capture, trade, or possession of wildlife without the necessary permits.
