DENR Rescues 3 Wild Animals in Metro Manila, Highlighting Ecosystem Importance

Three wild animals were rescued in separate incidents in Metro Manila, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-National Capital Region (DENR-NCR) said. In Barangay 163 in Caloocan City, a juvenile Brahminy kite (Haliastur indus) struck the window of a building. Responders observed that the bird appeared weak and had difficulty flying. The bird was later brought to the Biodiversity Management Bureau-Wildlife Rescue Center for veterinary examination and rehabilitation before its eventual release back into the wild. The Brahminy kite is a native bird of prey commonly found in coastal areas, mangroves, rivers, lakes, and other wetland ecosystems in the Philippines, according to the DENR. Although the species is listed as “Least Concern” on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List, the DENR said conserving the species and its habitats remains essential to ensuring the stability of its population. Meanwhile, a Philippine scops owl (Otus megalotis) was found wet under a tree in Las Piñas City. The Philippine scops owl is endemic to the Philippines and plays an important role in controlling pest populations, the DENR said. Preliminary assessments indicated that the juvenile owl may have still been learning how to fly. The DENR reminded the public not to immediately take young owls found under trees, as their parents are usually nearby. If necessary, the department advised placing the birds in a safe, elevated part of the tree to protect them from danger. In another incident, a marbled monitor lizard (Varanus marmoratus) was retrieved in Muntinlupa City. Both the owl and the monitor lizard were turned over to the National Wildlife Research and Rescue Center within the Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center (NAPWC) in Diliman, Quezon City for observation before their eventual release back into their natural habitats. — MCG, GMA News