The Philippine eagle
Among the largest eagles.
RoyKabanlit — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Constantine Agustin from Manila, Philippines — CC BY-SA 2.0 · scorpious18 — CC BY 2.0 · Constantine Agustin from Manila, Philippines — CC BY-SA 2.0 · RoyKabanlit — CC BY-SA 4.0
A rescue and breeding centre run by the Philippine Eagle Foundation in a forest on the edge of Davao, where visitors see the national bird of the Philippines up close. The Philippine eagle is one of the largest eagles in the world by length and wing area, with brown and white plumage and a shaggy crest, and it is among the most endangered birds of prey. Many of the centre's eagles were rescued injured from hunting or habitat loss; others were born in its breeding programme. You see them in large flight cages among the trees, with panels telling each bird's name and story. There are also other raptors and animals from Mindanao's forests. Here you see why Philippine law protects the bird so strictly: killing one is a crime punishable by up to twelve years in prison, and it appears on the thousand-peso note. The centre is in shady forest and the paths are easy. Come in the morning when the birds are most active, and keep quiet near the cages. Davao has a Muslim community and halal restaurants in the city.
Among the largest eagles.
A name for every bird.
Shady, easy paths.
Malagos, Baguio District, about an hour by road north-west of Davao City
Yes: it is one of the few places to see this rare eagle up close, and your visit supports its rescue programme. Allow half a day with the drive from Davao.