Rare Crested Serpent Eagle sighted in Luna, Apayao; MENRO Luna urges public for wildlife protection

‘Haan tayo kuma nga dangdangran dagitoy wildlife tayo ta isu metlang ti pangkitaan tayo nga intact paylang ti wildlife ditoy ili tayo’ – MENRO Designated Daniel Jose M. Viernes

Luna, Apayao – A rare Crested Serpent Eagle was recently sighted in the municipality of Luna on the morning of June 9, prompting local environmental authorities to call for greater public awareness and stronger protection of the province's wildlife resources.

In the Cordillera, the Crested Serpent Eagle (Spilornis cheela) is considered an uncommon species and is rarely seen because it prefers forested habitats. A related species, the Philippine Serpent Eagle (Spilornis holospilus), is endemic to the Philippines and is found on most major islands except Palawan, typically inhabiting forest edges, open woodlands, and agricultural areas with scattered trees.

The sighting was documented by Luna Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO) Designate Daniel Jose M. Viernes and his staff during a field inspection in the area.

In an interview with GURU Press Cordillera, Viernes said the bird was spotted while their team was conducting an assessment related to a quarry application. The species was later identified with the assistance of Philippine Eagle biologists, who confirmed it as a Crested Serpent Eagle.

Viernes described the encounter as a significant moment for their team, noting that it was the first time they had sighted the species in the area. He added that the bird appeared to be carrying leaves, leading them to believe it may have been gathering materials for a nest.

“First time mi maka-sight iti kastoy nga species—although adda met ketdi makitkita mi nga dadduma nga kapamilya da nga eagles ngem not like the Crested Serpent Eagle. Idiay picture makita nga kasla adda bitbit na nga leaves, isu speculation mi ket baka madama ag-aggather suna for nest na,” he said.

Viernes also clarified that capturing wildlife species is prohibited except for legitimate research purposes, and that any animal temporarily captured for scientific study must be released immediately afterward and not kept in captivity.

The MENRO officer emphasized the importance of protecting wildlife, saying the presence of species such as the Crested Serpent Eagle is an indicator of a healthy and intact environment in Apayao. He likewise encouraged residents to report wildlife sightings to the MENRO or the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) so proper action can be taken.

“...for academic purpose lang diay panangtiliw mi, not to cage them. Para ken dagitoy constituents, haan tayo kuma nga dangdangran dagitoy wildlife tayo ta isu metlang ti pangkitaan tayo nga intact pay laeng ti wildlife ditoy ili tayo. Dakkel ti role da iti environment tayo isunga nu kas pagarigan adda makita da wenno matiliw da ket ipakaammo da lattan ti authorities tapno ti kasta ket maikkan ti usto nga action,” Viernes said.

Environmental officials said the sighting serves as a reminder of the rich biodiversity that still exists in Apayao and the importance of preserving natural habitats for future generations.