One (1) Scops Owl (Otus megalotis) was captured in Villa Ilaya, Brgy. Caloocan, Balayan Batangas and was turned over to the DENR CENRO Calaca through the assistance of MENRO Balayan.

The said wildlife was captured by Mr. Jubert Ramos, a resident of Brgy. Caloocan, when he spotted the said bird, fell from a tree beside their house at around 5:30 in the morning. This was immediately surrendered to MENRO Balayan and subsequently turned over to CENRO Calaca. Upon checking the physical condition of the said wildlife, it was observed to be healthy and strong.

The rescued wildlife was brought and placed under the custody of DENR CALABARZON Wildlife Rescue Center located in Brgy. Lamot II, Calauan, Laguna on May 4, 2022.

The Luzon Lowland Scops-owl (Otus megalotis) is endemic to the Philippines and classified by IUCN in 2016 as Least Concern, although its population trend is decreasing. Thus, in order to protect and conserve these kinds of species, the DENR CENRO Calaca will continue to conduct IEC on wildlife conservation and protection.

On the other hand, the Municipal LGUs, Barangay Officials and community residents were encouraged to report and surrender immediately to DENR CENRO Calaca Batangas, if ever they encounter wildlife similar to this incident.