Serpent eagle rescued in Cagayan
TUGUEGARAO CITY — A Philippine serpent eagle (Spilornis holospilus) was rescued after it flew inside the house of a resident in Mabini, Baggao, Cagayan on Saturday, May 16, an environment information officer said Sunday.
The bird, apparently stressed, entered the home of Jay Carlo Tariga, who later turned it over to village councilor Caren Bribon. The official then coordinated with the Baggao Eco Vanguard Network and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources–Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (DENR-CENRO) Alcala, which has jurisdiction over the area, said Frederic Tomas, DENR-CENRO Alcala information officer.
READ: Rescued Philippine serpent eagle sent back to the wild in Kidapawan City
Tomas said the serpent eagle, an endemic raptor known for its distinctive crest and powerful talons used to hunt snakes and other reptiles, showed no visible injuries but will undergo a veterinary checkup to ensure its condition.
The bird will be brought to the Rogelio Baggayan Wildlife Rescue Center under the DENR Cagayan Valley regional office in Tuguegarao City for temporary care.
Serpent eagles typically measure 47 to 53 centimeters in length, with a wingspan of 105 to 120 centimeters. They feed on amphibians, reptiles, and other live prey, according to research./coa
