The Philippine Eagle blog#7

The Philippine eagle (Pithecophaga jefferyi) is the world's largest eagle, and one of the most threatened raptors. The male and female Philippine eagle are similar in appearance, possessing a creamy white belly and underwing, whilst the upperparts are a rich chocolate-brown, with a paler edge. The long feathers of the head and nape form a distinctive, shaggy crest and are creamy-buff in colour with black streaks. Philippine eagle chicks have white down, and juveniles are similar in appearance to adults but have white margins to the feathers on the back and upperwing. The Philippine eagle has heavy, yellow legs with large, powerful claws, and the large, deep bill is a bluish-grey.

Here are some interesting facts about the Philippine Eagle...

• It can live up to 60 years of age

The Philippine eagle’s life expectancy ranges from 30 to 60 years. Two Philippine eagles were recorded to have lived for more more than 40 years – one of which died on October 2016. The full-grown, female Philippine eagle named ‘Thor’ (after the Norse God of Thunder), died due to old age. Authorities believe her captivity worsened her condition. Hence, it is believed the Philippine eagle can live longer if left in the wild.

• Philippine Eagle is monogamous and loyal

The Philippine eagle is reportedly very loyal. Once paired to a partner, they choose to remain as a couple for the rest of their lives. As for their offsprings, a Philippine eagle only lays a single egg every two years. And before they lay another egg, the parent eagles ensure that their offspring can already survive on its own.

• It has no recognized subspecies

The Philippine eagle was named as the country’s national bird in 1995. Proclamation No. 615, signed by former President Fidel Ramos, gave way to the recognition of the species as the country’s national bird. It was recognised as such for it is only found in the Philippines and according to the proclamation, its distinguished characteristics of strength and love for freedom exemplify the Filipino people. Unlike other raptors, the Philippine eagle has no known close relatives or sub-species, making it very unique.

(Image source in courtesy of theculturetrip.com)