Rescued PH eagle in Bukidnon now recovering, to undergo further tests - PEF

The Philippine eagle rescued in Bukidnon is now showing signs of recovery after being reportedly attacked by a troop of monkeys, the Philippine Eagle Foundation (PEF) said on Wednesday.

“Sawaga-Dalwangan is now alert and responsive. She is eating on her own, her wounds are clean, and the maggot infestation is gone. She has completed her antibiotics and other medicines, and there are no signs of an active infection,” said PEF in a statement.

The eagle, which was estimated to be a young adult female, was found by a local farmer along the Cabanbangan-Sawaga River in Barangay Dalwangan, Malaybalay City last July 3.

Multiple injuries beneath the bird’s wings were found as well as two pellet gun wounds. But local environmental officers found the pellet gun wounds were not fresh and one of the embedded pellets was already removed.

“Veterinarians successfully removed the small metal pellet from her wing. The other pellet remains deep inside her left thigh. It will be closely watched, and removal may be considered when she is fully recovered and strong enough for the procedure,” the foundation said.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) said experts initially believed the eagle had been stranded on the ground for some time, possibly after struggling to free itself from a trap or restraint.

Further, the PEF said that the rescued eagle has tested negative for Avian Influenza. It was also tested for Newcastle Disease and Aspergillosis.

The foundation added that the eagle will also undergo DNA testing.

“Blood samples will also be sent to the University of the Philippines Diliman to confirm the eagle’s sex through DNA testing. The samples will also be studied to help identify her possible ancestry, geographic origin, and genetic relationship to other known Philippine Eagle populations,” said PEF.

Once the eagle is confirmed negative for other diseases and medically stable, the PEF said it will be transferred to Philippine Eagle Center’s quarantine facility in Malagos, Davao City. —RF, GMA News