Latest news with #PhilippineEagleFoundation


GMA Network
21-05-2025
- General
- GMA Network
2 rescued Philippine eagles released back into the wild in Leyte
The Philippine Eagle Foundation has released two rescued Philippine eagles, a male named Kalatungan 1 and a female named Lyra Sinabadan, back into the forest of Leyte. According to Kuya Kim's report in "24 Oras" Wednesday, their release is part of the PEF's Philippine Eagle Species Reintroduction Program. "Itong reintroduction program in Leyte ay isang importanteng component ng overall conservation program. Sa kasawiang palad, naubos na ang Philippine eagles natin sa isla ng Leyte. Naiiwasang sila ay mabaril at ma-trap sa Mindanao at makaka-establish tayo ng self-sustaining population," said PEF Director for Operations Jayson Ibañez. The PEF first released Kalatungan 1, who was rescued in a weakened state in Bukidnon in 2024 after it had been hit by a bullet. "Inalagaan sa Philippine Eagle Center, binigyan siya ng mga bitamina, ibinalik 'yung kakayahan niya to lipad, ready na," Ibañez said of Kalatungan 1. More than an hour later, Lyra Sinabadan, who was rescued on Mt. Tangkulan in Bukidnon in 2023, was released. Both eagles have GPS and VHF (radio) transmitters so they can be monitored by the PEF in their new home. "Ito pong paglagay ng radio transmitter, wala sa unang release natin at ang importansya nito, anytime gusto natin hanapin ang mga ibon, pwede natin silang makita," Ibañez added. Another Philippine eagle, a male named Lakpue, is set to be released at a later date. More information about Lakpue's release will be announced by the PEF soon. The Philippine Eagle Species Reintroduction Program was launched in 2024, which also marked the release of Philippine eagles Carlito and Uswag in Leyte. Carlito has successfully adapted to her new home, while the male Uswag had accidentally drowned in the waters off Ponson Island in Pilar, Cebu in 2024. —CDC, GMA Integrated News


South China Morning Post
16-04-2025
- General
- South China Morning Post
‘Fly high, Riley': Philippine eaglet dies 3 months after birth
Riley, the first Philippine eagle to hatch independently in captivity, has died just three months after its birth raised hopes of survival for the endangered species, a conservation charity has said. Advertisement 'It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Riley, one of the Philippine eagles under our care … Though the eaglet's time with us was short, Riley captured hearts and inspired hope – becoming a powerful symbol for his species' conservation from hatch day to every milestone along the way,' the Philippine Eagle Foundation (PEF) said in a statement on Wednesday. 'We extend our deepest gratitude to our dedicated animal keepers, veterinarians, and support staff who gave Riley the utmost care throughout his life. We also thank everyone who followed his journey and showed unwavering love and support. We hope you continue to stand with us as we strive to secure a future for our national bird.' Riley's birth on January 16 was hailed as a win for the Philippine Eagle Foundation's conservation breeding programme. Photo: Philippine Eagle Foundation Riley was the 31st chick to hatch at the foundation's breeding sanctuary in Davao City. Its birth, a result of artificial insemination, was hailed as a win for the PEF's conservation breeding programme. 'Riley's arrival is a symbol of hope and a reminder of the importance of unity in protecting our natural heritage. Together, we are making a lasting impact,' the foundation told This Week in Asia at the time. One of the largest raptors in the world with a wingspan of about 2 metres (6.5 feet), the Philippine eagle is critically endangered, with only about 400 pairs remaining in the wild, according to the Swiss-based International Union for Conservation of Nature. Advertisement This makes the task of increasing its numbers an urgent one. However, it is one of the hardest species to breed in captivity, as pairs mate for life and produce only one egg every two years.