Philippine Eagle Among World’s Largest Raptors

The Philippine eagle, scientifically known as Pithecophaga jefferyi, is one of the largest and most powerful birds of prey on Earth. Often nicknamed the “monkey-eating bird”, it is endemic to the Philippines and serves as a national symbol. However, the species is now listed as Critically Endangered, with fewer than 500 mature individuals believed to survive in the wild.

Origins of the ‘Monkey-Eating’ Name

The eagle earned its popular nickname from early reports of it hunting monkeys in forest canopies. While monkeys form part of its diet, the bird also preys on flying squirrels, civets, bats, snakes and other small vertebrates. It is a daytime hunter and functions as an apex predator within its ecosystem, helping maintain ecological balance in tropical forests.

Impressive Size and Physical Features

The Philippine eagle ranks among the world’s largest eagles by body length. Adults measure between 76 and 102 centimetres from head to tail, with an average wingspan of around 1.9 metres. Weight ranges from 4.5 to 8 kilograms, with females typically larger and heavier than males.

Its strong, curved beak and long, sharp talons—measuring up to 7.6 centimetres—allow it to grip prey securely in dense forest habitats. Unlike open-country raptors, it is adapted for manoeuvring through thick tree cover.

Habitat Loss and Shrinking Range

The species is restricted to select islands including Luzon, Samar, Leyte and Mindanao. It depends primarily on undisturbed dipterocarp forests for nesting and hunting. Each breeding pair requires a vast territory, sometimes exceeding 100 square kilometres.

Deforestation due to logging, agriculture, mining and infrastructure expansion has significantly reduced suitable habitat. As lowland forests disappeared, eagles were pushed into steeper mountainous terrain, where survival remains uncertain.

Important Facts for Exams

• Pithecophaga jefferyi is endemic to the Philippines.
• IUCN Red List status: Critically Endangered.
• Dipterocarp forests dominate much of Southeast Asia’s tropical rainforest.
• Large raptors require extensive territories, increasing vulnerability to habitat fragmentation.

Slow Breeding and Conservation Efforts

Philippine eagles form long-term pair bonds and usually lay a single egg every two years. Both parents incubate the egg for nearly two months and care for the chick for several months after hatching. Sexual maturity may not occur until around seven years of age, slowing population recovery.

Conservation programmes initiated in the 1970s focus on habitat protection, law enforcement and captive breeding. Despite these measures, the species remains under severe threat, with its future closely tied to the preservation of the Philippines’ remaining primary forests.