The Department of Environment and Natural Resources Soccsksargen (Region 12) secured the safety of a Brahminy kyte after it was turned over to the region by a concerned citizen on July 29.
According to Evangeline Marfil, Brgy. Chairperson of Katipunan, Sto. Nino town in South Cotabato, Raymond Tejada, a concerned citizen found the raptor weak and wet after a heavy rainfall.
The barangay officials immediately coordinated with Brigada News FM in Koronadal City which asked the assistance of DENR 12 to get hold of the raptor.
After careful inspection, DENR personnel confirmed that it is a young Brahminy kyte.
Forester Mangayao C. Macapodi, DENR 12 Protected Area Management and Biodiversity Conservation Section Chief said the raptor is domesticated.
“The bird is now being kept in the newly-opened Regional Wildlife Rescue Center (RWRC) in Sultan Kudarat State University (SKSU) Lutayan Campus to ensure its safety and protection,” Macapodi said.
SKSU-Lutayan Campus Veterinarian Dr. Neil Velasco said the raptor is dehydrated and will undergo thorough medication.
Macapodi added that the RWRC will secure, protect and rehabilitate all wildlife species especially those that are turned over, abandoned, surrendered or confiscated.
“We are advising the public not to capture any wildlife species if they are healthy and in good condition. Let them live in their natural habitat,” Macapodi stressed.
“If they are injured, immediately turn over the species to the nearest DENR offices – the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office, the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office, the Protected Area Superintendent and the regional office to ensure their well-being,” he added.
Macapodi also said the best we can do for wildlife species is to let them live freely in their natural habitats. (Ana Leah V. Asim) | Photo by: Forester Mangayao C. Macapodi