The Crested Serpent Eagle is a fascinating bird of prey found in parts of Asia. Known for its striking appearance and powerful hunting skills, this eagle is a true marvel of the animal kingdom.
The Crested Serpent Eagle is medium-sized, with a body length of about 50 to 75 centimeters and a wingspan that can reach up to 160 centimeters. Its plumage is mainly dark brown, with a lighter belly and a distinctive crest of feathers on its head. This crest gives the bird its name. The eagle also has large, bright yellow eyes that are excellent for spotting prey from high in the sky. Another amazing feature is the white band on its tail and wings, which becomes more visible when the eagle is in flight.
This bird is commonly found in forested areas, including tropical and subtropical forests, across a range of countries in Asia. Its range extends from the Indian subcontinent, including India, Sri Lanka, and Nepal, to Southeast Asia, covering countries like Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines. The Crested Serpent Eagle prefers habitats with dense tree cover, where it can inspect the ground for prey.
As its name suggests, the Crested Serpent Eagle primarily feeds on snakes. It is specially adapted to hunt and catch snakes, including both venomous and non-venomous species. The eagle uses its strong talons to grip the snake and its sharp beak to kill it. Besides snakes, this bird also hunts other small animals, such as lizards, frogs, and small mammals. Its keen eyesight allows it to spot prey from great heights, and its swift flight helps it to catch its target with precision.
The Crested Serpent Eagle is usually a solitary bird, spending much of its time perched quietly in trees, watching for potential prey. During the breeding season, which varies depending on the region, the eagle becomes more active and vocal. It builds its nest high up in trees. The female lays one or two eggs, and both parents take turns incubating them. After hatching, the young eagles are cared for by their parents until they are ready to fly.
The Crested Serpent Eagle is currently listed as “Least Concern” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). However, like many forest-dwelling species, it faces threats from habitat loss due to deforestation and human activities.
The Crested Serpent Eagle is a remarkable bird that plays an important role in its ecosystem by controlling snake populations. Its unique characteristics and behaviors make it a captivating subject for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike.