Philippine Eagle

№ 61 of 100

Critically EndangeredBird · Eagle

Philippine Eagle

Pithecophaga jefferyi

One of the largest, rarest eagles on Earth — each pair needs up to 100 km² of old-growth Philippine rainforest.

Estimated remaining ~600–800 (~400 pairs) Declining
Range
Philippines
Region
Asia
Habitat
Old-growth dipterocarp rainforest on Luzon, Samar, Leyte and Mindanao

The story

Crowned with a shaggy crest, the Philippine eagle is the national bird of a country that has lost most of its old-growth forest. The Philippine Eagle Foundation pairs captive breeding with Indigenous forest-guard programmes, because every wild nest protected matters more than any aviary.

What's killing them

  • Deforestation of nesting forest
  • Shooting despite legal protection
  • Slow breeding — one chick every two years

Who's fighting for them

Logos are the property of their respective organisations and link to their official sites.

Quick answers

How many Philippine Eagles are left in the world?

Approximately ~600–800 (~400 pairs). The Philippine Eagle (Pithecophaga jefferyi) is listed as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List, and their population trend is declining. Figures are estimates compiled from the IUCN Red List and conservation organisations.

Where does the Philippine Eagle live?

The Philippine Eagle is found in Philippines (Asia). Their habitat: Old-growth dipterocarp rainforest on Luzon, Samar, Leyte and Mindanao.

Why is the Philippine Eagle endangered?

The main threats to the Philippine Eagle are: Deforestation of nesting forest; Shooting despite legal protection; Slow breeding — one chick every two years.

Who is working to save the Philippine Eagle?

Organisations working on Philippine Eagle conservation include Philippine Eagle Foundation; BirdLife International.