CRESTED SERPENT-EAGLE
Spilornis cheela
DESCRIPTION
Crested Serpent-Eagle (Spilornis cheela) is also known as the Indian Serpent-Eagle and is characterized by its distinctive crest and striking plumage. This bird of prey has a dark brown body with a lighter, mottled underbelly and a prominent crest that can be raised or lowered. It is known for its keen eyesight and hunting prowess, often seen soaring high in the sky or perched on trees, scanning the ground for potential prey.
FUN FACTS
- Crested Serpent-Eagles are known for their unique vocalizations, which can be heard during their courtship displays
- These calls are often described as a series of high-pitched whistles that can carry over long distances
- | The species has a remarkable ability to spot snakes from great heights, making them highly effective hunters
- Their diet primarily consists of snakes, and they have been observed hunting various species, including venomous ones
QUICK INFO
Lifespan15-20 years in the wild
Average Weight1.5-2.5 kg
Average Length60-70 cm
Diet TypeCarnivore
Social Structuresolitary, often seen alone or in pairs during breeding season
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonSpring (March-May)
- Habitat
- These eagles inhabit a variety of forested areas, including tropical and subtropical forests, as well as open woodlands. They prefer habitats near water sources where their prey is abundant.
- Biomes
- Tropical Rainforest, Subtropical Forest, Temperate Forest
- Native Range
- Crested Serpent-Eagles are found across South and Southeast Asia, including India, Sri Lanka, and parts of Southeast Asia.
- Continent
- Asia
- Countries
- India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia
- Diet
- Crested Serpent-Eagles primarily feed on snakes, but they also consume lizards, small mammals, and birds. Their hunting technique involves keen observation and swift strikes to capture their prey.
- Diet Type
- Carnivore
- Favorite Food
- snakes
- Social Structure
- solitary, often seen alone or in pairs during breeding season
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 1-2
- Territorial
- 1
CR
1.5-2.5 kg
Weight
60-70 cm
Length
- Coloration
- dark brown with a lighter mottled underbelly and a distinctive crest
- Sexual Dimorphism
- males and females are similar in appearance, but females are generally larger
- Lifespan
- 15-20 years in the wild
- Offspring per Birth
- 1-3
- Sexual Maturity
- 2-3 years
- Breeding Season
- Spring (March-May)
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population of Crested Serpent-Eagles is currently stable, but habitat loss poses a potential threat.
- Wild Population Estimate
- unknown
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat destruction due to deforestation and human encroachment. Additionally, they may face persecution from local farmers who view them as threats to livestock.
- Predators
- larger birds of prey, such as eagles and hawks, may pose a threat to juvenile Crested Serpent-Eagles.
- Defense Mechanisms
- They rely on their keen eyesight and ability to soar high to avoid predators, as well as their agility in flight.
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon