DENR-8 rescues, releases PH scops owl in Leyte town

TACLOBAN CITY — The Department of Environment and Natural Resources in Region 8 (DENR-8) has rescued and released to the wild a juvenile Philippine scops owl (Otusmegalotis) in Tolosa, Leyte town, a report from DENR-8, based in this city said here today.

DENR 8 Regional Executive Director Tirso P. Parian Jr. told reporters Wedensday that the bird was rescued by DENR-8 personnel in Barangay Burak, Tolosa, Leyte.

Parian said that local resident Rachel Costinianoinformed his office that the scops owl was given to her husband by some children who found the wildlife species earlier this May.

They kept the owl under their care to ensure that it will not be harmed by the children or other animals.

Parian said Costiniano told the DENR-8 personnel that they also observed an adult owl bringing in food for the juvenile at night.

“We think it was the mother of the owl bringing feeds to the juvenile owl. We really intend to free the bird, but we want to make sure it is safe and in good shape,” Costiniano said.

The director said that, through radio reporter, Justin Grace Traya, the incident was reported to the DENR-8 office. A team from the office checked and observed that the bird was in good physical condition and released right away back to the

wild, Parian added.

The Philippine scops owl is endemic to the Philippines and is listed under the category of Other Wildlife Species per DENR Administrative Order No. 2019-09.

Parian lauded the efforts of the concerned citizens in saving the wildlife species.

“It is important that the community

understands how wildlife species maintain the ecological balance of nature,” he said.

“Owls, for instance, provide natural pest control to the environment. They eat insects and pests that are usually bothersome to homes and agricultural areas,” he added.

Parian urged the public to immediately turn over, and report to

the nearest DENR office rescued or captured wildlife species.

He also warned the public against inflicting harm or keeping wildlife species as pets, since this is in violation of Republic Act 9147, An Act Providing for the Conservation and Protection of Wildlife Resources and their Habitats. (Restituto A. Cayubit)