Apayao: A rare Luzon bleeding-heart (Gallicolumba luzonica) has been released back into the wild after it was rescued in Barangay Ferdinand here. The Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO) reported that the ground-dwelling bird was found caught in an illegal trap during an exploration activity in Mount Malingudo. Environmentalists took the bird into custody until it was deemed ready for release.

According to Philippines News Agency, MENRO officer Sarah Mae Batil explained that this was the first time they had rescued a bleeding-heart dove in the area. "We have rescued and released other species like the hawk eagle and serpent eagle in the past, but this one (bleeding-heart) was the first so far," she stated. The Luzon bleeding-heart, endemic to Luzon, is highly dependent on intact forest habitats. Due to habitat loss, illegal hunting, and wildlife trapping, it is currently classified as near-threatened by environmental authorities.

The rare dove is easily recognized by its striking crimson chest patch, resembling a bleeding wound, which makes it one of the most visually distinctive bird species in the Philippines. The Luzon bleeding-heart is a small to medium-sized forest pigeon with gray plumage, a white underside, and iridescent wing feathers. It is typically shy and elusive, often foraging for seeds, fallen fruit, and small invertebrates on the forest floor.

In efforts to protect such species, biodiversity assessments are being conducted across various parts of Apayao to document the province's flora and fauna within its declared biosphere reserve. Two years ago, the lush forests of Apayao were designated as a Biosphere Reserve by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization. This designation protects more than 395,000 hectares in Apayao, ensuring conservation efforts for biodiversity continue.