Crested Serpent-Eagle
NameCrested Serpent-Eagle
Common NameCrested Serpent-Eagle
Scientific NameSpilornis cheela
FamilyAccipitridae
Wingspan (cm)140
Length (cm)65
Weight (g)1200
Plumage DetailsAdults have a dark brown head with a prominent black and white nuchal crest, bright yellow eyes, and a yellow cere. The body is dark brown with fine white speckles or ocelli on the underparts, particularly on the belly and flanks. The tail is relatively short with broad white bands.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalization is a distinctive, high-pitched, drawn-out call, often described as a 'klee-klee-klee' or 'whee-whee-whee-whee-whee', frequently given while soaring.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland, wetland, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across tropical Asia, from India and Sri Lanka through Southeast Asia to Indonesia and the Philippines.
Identifying FeaturesProminent nuchal crest, Bright yellow eyes and cere, Dark head contrasting with speckled brown body, Broad, rounded wings and short tail with white bands (visible in flight), Often seen perched upright
Description
The Crested Serpent-Eagle is a medium-sized raptor known for its diet primarily consisting of snakes and lizards. It typically perches upright in trees within forested habitats, scanning for prey with its keen eyesight.
