Harpy Eagle
Image: diana_shang (cc-by-nc)
NameHarpy Eagle
Common NameHarpy Eagle
Scientific NameHarpia harpyja
FamilyAccipitridae
Wingspan (cm)200
Length (cm)95
Weight (g)7000
Plumage DetailsAdults have a slate-grey back, black upper chest band, and white underparts. The head is pale grey with a distinctive double crest of feathers. Juveniles are much whiter overall, especially on the head and underparts, with a less defined crest and paler grey upperparts.
Vocalization / CallGenerally silent, but can produce a variety of calls including piercing whistles, harsh screams, and croaks, especially around the nest.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatstropical lowland rainforest, humid forest
Conservation Statusnear-threatened
Geographic RangeExtends from southeastern Mexico through Central America and into South America, east of the Andes, as far south as northern Argentina.
Identifying Featureslarge size, prominent double crest, powerful talons, dark grey back (adult), white belly, black chest band (adult), pale head (adult), white head (juvenile)
Description
The Harpy Eagle is one of the largest and most powerful raptors in the world, known for its formidable hunting prowess in the Neotropical rainforests. It possesses a striking appearance with a prominent crest and powerful talons. This apex predator primarily preys on arboreal mammals like sloths and monkeys.
