Harpy Eagle
Image: Tommy Andriollo (cc-by)
NameHarpy Eagle
Common NameHarpy Eagle
Scientific NameHarpia harpyja
FamilyAccipitridae
Wingspan (cm)200
Length (cm)95.5
Weight (g)7000
Plumage DetailsAdults have a slate-gray back and wings, a white underside, and a broad black band across the chest. The head is pale gray with a distinctive double crest of feathers that can be raised. Juveniles, like the one pictured, have a whiter head and neck, and often more buffy or brownish tones on the upperparts and underparts, gradually acquiring adult plumage over several years.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include piercing whistles, screams, and croaks, often used during breeding season or when disturbed. They can also produce a series of short, high-pitched calls.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatstropical rainforest, lowland forest
Conservation Statusnear-threatened
Geographic RangeFound in the tropical rainforests of Central and South America, from southern Mexico through Central America and extensively in South America, east to the Atlantic and south to northern Argentina.
Identifying Featureslarge size, prominent double crest, powerful talons, slate-gray upperparts (adults), white underparts with black chest band (adults), pale head (adults, whiter in juveniles)
Description
The Harpy Eagle is one of the largest and most powerful raptors in the world, known for its formidable talons and striking appearance. It is an apex predator of the rainforest canopy, primarily hunting large arboreal mammals. The bird in the image appears to be a juvenile or subadult, characterized by its lighter head and neck plumage.
