Philippine Eagle Foundation races to protect eagles from El Niño's deadly heat
The Philippine Eagle Foundation (PEF) is taking steps to shield the country’s national bird from the harsh effects of El Niño. With rising temperatures and drought conditions threatening food sources, the organisation has rolled out new safeguards to protect wild and captive eagles across Mindanao.
The measures come after past heatwaves disrupted eagle behaviour, including cases of abandoned nests and struggling chicks during the 2016 El Niño event. In 2016, extreme heat and food shortages forced two male Philippine eagles to leave their mates and offspring. To prevent a repeat, PEF has strengthened its monitoring and conservation efforts. Currently, 52 eagle pairs are tracked across Mindanao, with Indigenous Forest Guards assisting in observations.
The foundation has also expanded its use of GPS tracking, tagging 32 eagles since 2018. This technology helps researchers keep a close watch on birds in fragile or disturbed habitats. At the National Bird Breeding Sanctuary (NBBS) in Toril, dense forest cover provides some relief from extreme heat, reducing the impact on resident eagles.
To further protect nesting sites, PEF launched a large-scale reforestation programme. The initiative aims to plant 3 million trees and restore 1,200 hectares of forest before El Niño peaks. Partnerships with indigenous communities play a key role, combining tree planting, habitat protection, and eagle monitoring.
Lessons from 2016 have shaped PEF’s updated protocols. The Philippine Eagle Center now ensures a stable water supply and consistent food sources for its birds. Beyond immediate protections, the foundation plans to expand reforestation in the long term, building resilience against future climate challenges.
These efforts also bring economic benefits. By conserving forests and wildlife, the projects create green jobs and income opportunities for local communities, reinforcing both ecological and financial stability. The foundation’s actions address both immediate threats and long-term risks to the Philippine eagle. By combining technology, community partnerships, and habitat restoration, PEF aims to reduce the impact of El Niño on the species. The programmes also support local livelihoods while safeguarding one of the world’s rarest birds of prey.
