The Philippine Eagle(Pithecophaga jefferyi), also known as the Monkey-Eating Eagle or Great Philippine Eagle is an endangered bird of prey that is found in Asia.
Physical Characteristics
An adult Philippine Eagle has a “spiky” crest of feathers on its head. Its crown, crest and nape(back of the neck) are tan with black streaks; the upperparts are brown with tan and cream-edged feathers; the underparts are creamy-white. with chestnut streaks on the sides of the throat and thighs. The feet are yellow, The cere is a dull greenish color, and the irises are bluish-gray.
Juveniles are similar to adults in appearance, but juveniles’ irises are brown, and their feet are whitish-yellow.
| Length | 86cm-1m(2’9.9”-3’3.4”) |
| Wingspan | 1.8-2.2m(5’10.9”-7’2.6”) |
| Weight | 4.5-8kg(9.9-17.6 lbs.) |
Range
The Philippine Eagle is endemic to the Philippines and can be found on 4 islands; Luzon, Samar, Leyte, and Mindanao.
Habitat
Philippine Eagles inhabit forests.
Breeding
Philippine Eagles nest high above the ground in treetops. The clutch of 1 egg is incubated primarily by the mother, but the father sometimes will incubate the egg as well. The incubation period is 58 to 68 days.
Diet
Philippine Eagles eat palm civets, monkeys, rats, squirrels, fruit bats, snakes, monitor lizards, and birds.
Conservation Status
The Philippine Eagle is listed as critically endangered.
Fun Facts
- Philippine Eagles can live for up to 40 years.
- The Philippine Eagle was officially declared the national bird of the Philippines on July 4, 1995, by President Fidel V. Ramos.
- The Philippine Eagle has been depicted on the 50-sentimo coins minted from 1983 to 1994.
