Secretarybird
Image: <bdi><a href="https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q28147777" class="extiw" title="d:Q28147777"><span title="Spanish photographer">Diego Delso</span></a></bdi> (CC BY-SA 4.0)
NameSecretarybird
Common NameSecretarybird
Scientific NameSagittarius serpentarius
FamilySagittariidae
Wingspan (cm)200
Length (cm)130
Weight (g)3250
Plumage DetailsThe Secretarybird has a pale grey body, black flight feathers, and black thighs. Its long tail is white with two broad black bands and a white tip. The head features bare orange-red facial skin around the eyes and a prominent crest of long, stiff black feathers resembling old-fashioned quill pens.
Vocalization / CallSecretarybirds typically produce deep, guttural croaks and grunts, especially during courtship displays. They can also emit a high-pitched 'kwaaark' call when disturbed or communicating.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, savanna, shrubland
Conservation Statusendangered
Geographic RangeFound throughout sub-Saharan Africa, from Senegal and Mauritania in the west, east to Somalia, and south to South Africa, primarily in open grasslands and savannas.
Identifying Featuresvery long legs, prominent black crest feathers, bare orange-red facial skin, grey body with black flight feathers and thighs, long tail with black bands, terrestrial hunting behavior
Description
The Secretarybird is a large, terrestrial bird of prey native to Africa, known for its long crane-like legs and distinctive crest of black feathers. It primarily hunts on foot, striding through grasslands in search of prey. Its unique appearance and hunting style make it easily recognizable.
