Philippine serpent eagle

The Philippine serpent eagle (Spilornis holospilus) is an eagle found in the major islands of the Philippines. It is sometimes treated as a race of the crested serpent eagle (Spilornis cheela). This species is usually found in forest clearings, open woodlands, and sometimes in cultivated lands with scattered trees. It is endemic to the Philippines. The species is found on most part of the major islands, except for Palawan.

Habitat
It inhabits primary and secondary forest. The bird is often seen soaring over clearings and river valleys.

On August 6, 2023, Miguel Rabuyas discovered the bird trapped in his farm at Lun Masla, Malapatan and was released in Calabanit, Glan, Sarangani. On February 9, 2024, the Bulacan Environment and Natural Resources Office (BENRO) turned over a rescued 1 foot tall, with a wingspan of 4 feet and weighing 2.5 kilograms to the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office in Santa Rita, Guiguinto. It was later sent to Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center.

Diet
The bird feeds on amphibians, reptiles and other live prey.

Description
The Philippine serpent eagle is distinguished from other species of serpent eagle by more well-defined spots on the underparts and wings.