The Philippine eagle, often called the monkey‑eating eagle, is the world’s largest eagle by length, boasting a 7‑foot wingspan and a striking crest. Endemic to the Philippines, fewer than 500 breeding pairs remain, and the species is listed as Critically Endangered.

The bird’s survival is imperiled by habitat loss driven by deforestation, illegal logging, and expanding agricultural frontiers on Mindanao and Luzon. Hunting pressure and climate‑related shifts in forest composition further reduce prey availability, especially the macaques the eagles rely on for food.

Conservation groups have established protected zones such as Mt. Kitanglad and Mt. Apo Natural Parks, and a captive‑breeding program aims to bolster wild populations. Community‑based forest stewardship projects are also being rolled out to curb illegal activities and restore critical nesting sites.

Fact: The IUCN classifies the Philippine eagle as Critically Endangered.

Immediate, coordinated action is essential to prevent the loss of this iconic raptor.