Photo by: DENR Central Luzon
TARLAC — The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has released a rehabilitated Brahminy kite, locally known as lawin, back into the wild in Tarlac after nearly two weeks of treatment and monitoring.
The Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) in Capas handled the rehabilitation of the bird, scientifically known as Haliastur indus, after residents of Barangay Green Village in Concepcion, Tarlac, turned it over to the agency upon finding it weak and unable to fly following a typhoon.
DENR wildlife officers assessed the bird and recommended rehabilitation. CENRO Capas personnel provided food, care and regular monitoring for nearly two weeks until the raptor regained its strength and was deemed ready for release. The bird was named “Igan” during its recovery.
CENRO Capas Chief Isagani Manalili said the successful rehabilitation highlighted the importance of community participation in wildlife conservation.
“Igan’s recovery shows that when residents report and turn over wildlife, they become partners in protecting biodiversity. Public awareness and proper handling are key to ensuring that injured animals can safely return to their natural habitat,” Manalili said.
Photo by: DENR Central Luzon
The Brahminy kite is a native bird of prey in the Philippines. Although it is not classified as endangered, it is protected under DENR Administrative Order No. 2019-09 as an Other Wildlife Species.
As a raptor, the species plays a role in maintaining ecological balance, underscoring the importance of protecting native wildlife and their natural habitats.
DENR Regional Executive Director Ralph Pablo urged the public to report injured or distressed wild animals to the nearest DENR office for proper assessment and assistance.
He also reminded residents to refrain from hunting, capturing or harming wild animals, emphasizing that cooperation between communities and environmental authorities is essential to conserving the country’s biodiversity.
The DENR said the incident demonstrated how timely reporting and responsible community action can help wildlife recover and return safely to their natural environment.