The ape-eating eagle or monkey-eating eagle is considered one of the rarest and most powerful birds in the world. The Philippines has declared the bird its national and is protecting the critically endangered species at all costs, imposing 12 years in prison or hefty fines on those found to have killed it. Below, we summarize 11 interesting facts about this large eagle that can eat monkeys.
1, it can live to the age of 60
The average lifespan of ape-eating eagles is between 30 and 60 years. Two zoo-eating ape-eating eagles have been alive for more than 40 years, and one of them died in October 2016. This fully adult female ape-eating eagle, called "Thor" (the god of thunder in Norse mythology), died of old age. Therefore, it is believed that if the ape-eating eagle is released into the wild, it can live longer.
2. Female ape-eating eagles are usually larger
This huge forest raptor is not only considered rare and powerful, but also because of its size, it is indeed large, especially for females. It can grow up to 3 feet and wingspans can grow up to 7 feet. Average measurements of male and female Filipino eagles show that female ape-eating eagles are 10% larger than males. In terms of length, it is considered the largest surviving eagle in the world.
3) It doesn't really eat monkeys
Early ideas suggest that ape-eating eagles are also known as monkey-eating eagles because it preys on monkeys. However, contrary to popular belief, ape-eating eagles do not eat monkeys. According to recent studies, it preys on a variety of animals, usually rodents, bats, snakes and pigs.
4, its vision is very good
The distinctive features of ape-eating eagles are: long crown-like feathers, a large arched beak, and blue eyes that are said to be very sharp. Compared to humans, these birds have much clearer vision and can see up to eight times the distance that a human eye can see.
5) It is distributed on the four main islands of the Philippines
It can only be found in the Philippines and on all four main islands. These are Leyte, Luzon, Mindanao and Samar. However, due to being shot and trapped, ape-eating eagles have been a critically endangered species for many years. Despite strict laws, there have been cases of Filipino eagles being shot in the forest. As a result, the Ape-Eating Eagle Center became a protective breeding base for this highly threatening bird of prey.
6. Deforestation is usually the cause of their death
Forests, especially dense forests, are home to ape-eating eagles. Despite the country's abundant forest cover, massive logging and irresponsible use of resources are killing the forest and thus the species' homestead. In addition to shootings and traps, deforestation is also thought to be the leading cause of death for ape-eating eagles.
7, ape-eating eagle is loyal monogamous
Ape-eating eagles are reportedly very loyal. Once they become a couple with their significant other, they choose to spend the rest of their lives as partners. As for their offspring, ape-eating eagles lay an egg only every two years. Before they lay another egg, the male eagle parents ensure that their offspring are able to survive independently.
8. It is designated as the national bird of the Philippines
The ape-eating eagle was named the national bird in 1995. By former President Fidel Proclamation No. 615, signed by Ramos, recognized the species as a national bird. The Filipino people recognize this because this culture can only be found in the Philippines, according to which the Filipino people have a distinct character of strength and love of freedom. Unlike other birds of prey, ape-eating eagles have no known close relatives or subspecies, so they are very unique.