AFRICAN CROWNED EAGLE
Stephanoaetus coronatus
DESCRIPTION
The African Crowned Eagle is a large and powerful bird of prey known for its striking appearance and impressive hunting skills. It is characterized by its distinctive crown of feathers and robust build, making it one of the top avian predators in its habitat.
FUN FACTS
- The African Crowned Eagle is known for its incredible strength and hunting prowess | It can dive at speeds of up to 80 km/h when pursuing prey | This species has a unique courtship display that involves aerial acrobatics
QUICK INFO
Lifespanup to 20 years in the wild
Average Weight3-4.5 kg
Average Length0.7-0.9 m
Diet TypeCarnivore
Social Structuresolitary or pair, typically seen alone or with a mate
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonSpring (August-October)
- Habitat
- The African Crowned Eagle inhabits dense forests and woodlands, often near riverine areas. It prefers habitats that provide ample cover for hunting and nesting.
- Biomes
- Tropical Rainforest, Savanna
- Native Range
- The species is found across sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in forested regions.
- Continent
- Africa
- Countries
- Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, South Africa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Diet
- This eagle primarily feeds on medium-sized mammals, including monkeys and small antelopes. It is known for its ability to hunt in dense forests and can take down prey much larger than itself.
- Diet Type
- Carnivore
- Favorite Food
- monkeys, small antelopes
- Social Structure
- solitary or pair, typically seen alone or with a mate
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 1-2
- Territorial
- 1
3-4.5 kg
Weight
0.7-0.9 m
Length
- Coloration
- dark brown plumage with a white belly and distinctive crown of feathers
- Sexual Dimorphism
- females are generally larger than males
- Lifespan
- up to 20 years in the wild
- Offspring per Birth
- 1-2
- Sexual Maturity
- 2-3 years
- Breeding Season
- Spring (August-October)
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population is currently stable but faces threats from habitat loss.
- Wild Population Estimate
- unknown
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat destruction due to deforestation and human encroachment. They are also vulnerable to poisoning and hunting.
- Defense Mechanisms
- They use their powerful talons and sharp beak to defend against threats.
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon