DAVAO CITY – The left wing of a juvenile Philippine Eagle rescued on August 31 at Bagalbal Forest at Mount Kalatungan Range Natural Park in Valencia City, Bukidnon was amputated after sustaining a severe injury believed to be caused by a high-powered firearm, the Philippine Eagle Foundation (PEF) said.
According to PEF, Batang Lasang Volunteers sighted the young eagle, approximately about six- or seven-months-old, perched on a tree.
The eagle appeared to be in distress and starving, prompting them to report their discovery to the City Environment and Natural Resources Office-Valencia, Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Bukidnon, and PEF.
A team was deployed to rescue the eagle and was transported to the KJT Veterinary Services in Valencia for initial treatment and examination.
Results showed that the national bird had a severe wing injury – likely caused by either a hard fall or blunt force trauma – and was dehydrated and emaciated and required immediate medical attention.
Dr. Bayani Vandenbroeck, PEF veterinary consultant, said that the eagle’s injury due to a fall from a nest was improbable.
“A more plausible explanation is that the eagle was shot with a high-powered firearm using large ammunition, such as a marble gun or shotgun, which caused the extensive bone fragmentation in the wing at the point of impact,” Vandenbroeck said.
The eagle was transferred to his clinic, the Doc Bayani Animal Wellness Center here, where the avian was discovered to have necrotic wing injury that had to be amputated.
The bird is now under close observation, PEF said.
“An investigation is underway to determine the exact cause of the eagle's injuries, with authorities considering both accidental and intentional harm as possible causes. The Philippine Eagle Foundation remains committed to safeguarding the future of this critically endangered species,” it said.