Secretarybird
Image: megart81827 (cc-by-nc)
NameSecretarybird
Common NameSecretarybird
Scientific NameSagittarius serpentarius
FamilySagittariidae
Wingspan (cm)200
Length (cm)130
Weight (g)3250
Plumage DetailsGrey body plumage, black flight feathers, black thighs, and white underparts. It has a distinctive crest of long, black feathers resembling old-fashioned quill pens behind its head. The face features bare orange-red skin.
Vocalization / CallGenerally silent, but can produce deep croaking or booming calls, especially during breeding displays. They also make a high-pitched 'kwaark' call.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatssavanna, grassland, shrubland, semi-desert
Conservation Statusendangered
Geographic RangeWidespread across sub-Saharan Africa, from Senegal and Mauritania east to Somalia, and south to South Africa.
Identifying Featuresvery long legs, bare orange-red facial skin, distinctive crest of black feathers, grey body with black flight feathers and thighs, terrestrial hunting style
Description
The Secretarybird is a large, terrestrial bird of prey native to Africa, known for its long, crane-like legs and distinctive crest of quill-like feathers. It primarily hunts on foot, striking prey with its powerful legs and feet.
