Conservationists in Leyte are now reporting progress on the recovery of a Philippine eagle that was rescued after an encounter with a dog in Burauen, Leyte.
Jayson Ibañez, Philippine Eagle Foundation (PEF) research and conservation director, said the eagle, named “Lakpue,” has a “good appetite” and is receiving treatment at Doc Bayani’s Animal Wellness Clinic in Davao City.
“We’re just waiting for his next round of complete blood count readings and the disease screening results before we transfer him to the Philippine Eagle Center for rehabilitation,” Ibañez told local media.
The eagle was rescued after losing one of his talons in an encounter with a domesticated dog exploring the forest near the Marabong River.
The dog was with its owner, according to Ibañez.
It is a serious injury because the birds rely on their talons to grasp, subdue and kill preys, he said.
A talon is a sharp, curved claw found on birds of prey, including eagles, hawks, falcons and owls.
“Claw can grow back provided that the growth tissue was not severely damaged. So far, some tissue surrounding the toe bone is intact and can potentially be saved. We will focus on nutrition and rehabilitation to help stimulate claw growth once he is at the PEC,” Ibañez said.
The accident came weeks after the critically endangered raptor was seen drinking water and hunting in the wild, months after his release in September 2025.
“The plan is to release ‘Lakpue’ in forest interiors substantially away from villages. Based on our target release site at the deep forests between multiple towns in Leyte, but closer to Javier town, we will also first hold a massive education campaign to get community members and pet owners to keep their pets, especially dogs, away from forest interiors,” Ibañez said.
The eagle’s rehabilitation will focus not only on his physical recovery but also on his ability to function as a wild predator.
Veterinarians and rehabilitation specialists will closely monitor his agility, balance, strength and coordination, as well as his ability to hunt and effectively capture and subdue prey.
Conservationists have been active in monitoring the status of Philippine eagles that have been found in the area, particularly around the Mahagnao Volcano Natural Park in Burauen.
Experts estimate that only 1,300 to 3,600 mature individuals remain in the wild. The species is found only in parts of the Philippines, particularly in Mindanao, Samar, and Leyte.
(With report from PNA/OpinYon News Team)
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