MANILA, Philippines —The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) on Thursday said Philippine eagle Sawaga-Dalwangan showed clinical improvement following its rescue near the Sawaga River in Malaybalay City on July 3.
The bird survived a mob of macaques, severe dehydration, maggot infestation, and prior gunshot wounds.
While the prognosis remains guarded, the DENR said the bird has regained its appetite and is slated for long-term rehabilitation.
Environment Secretary Juan Miguel Cuna thanked the indigenous group that reported and helped retrieve the eagle.
“We are deeply grateful for their courage and quick reporting of the local residents, and to the prompt responses of the CENRO (Community Environment and Natural Resources Office) team and the Philippine Eagle Foundation,” Cuna said. “Their combined efforts were decisive in stabilizing this bird and getting it the care it needed.”