Photo credit: DENR-SOCCSKSARGEN

In a rare and exciting moment, a young eastern grass owl was photographed by the DENR-SOCCSKSARGEN team during their recent visit to Mt. Apo Natural Park from October 9 to 12. This marks a special encounter for the park, as these elusive creatures are not often seen up close.

The sighting came after several reports from locals who had been hearing the distinct calls of the owl echoing through the park's night skies. Known for its heart-shaped face and shy nature, the eastern grass owl is a nocturnal bird, preferring the cover of darkness to hunt and explore.

The owl’s heart-shaped face and deep-set eyes give it a striking appearance, but it's its elusive behavior that makes such a sighting extraordinary. Mostly active at night, these owls typically remain hidden, making encounters like this one particularly special for nature enthusiasts and conservationists.

Spotting this young owl is a reminder of the rich biodiversity in Mt. Apo Natural Park and highlights the importance of preserving habitats for wildlife. The DENR-SOCCSKSARGEN team hopes that such sightings will continue to inspire efforts to protect the region’s natural wonders.