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Crested Hawk-Eagle

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Conservation status

IUCN Red List: Least Concern (LC)

LIFE SPAN
  • In the Wild: Typically 15-20 years
  • In Captivity: Can live up to 25 years
Body size
  • Length: Approximately 58-80 cm (23-31 inches)
  • Wingspan: Ranges from 127-138 cm (50-54 inches)
  • Weight: Typically 1.2-1.9 kg (2.6-4.2 lbs), with females generally larger than males.
Native habitat
  • Geographical Range: Found across the Indian subcontinent, including India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan, and parts of Southeast Asia.
  • Habitat: Prefers subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests, montane forests, and open woodlands. It can also be found in savannas and grasslands.
Diet
  • Birds: Including pigeons, pheasants, and other smaller birds.
  • Mammals: Such as squirrels, rodents, and small deer.
  • Reptiles: Including snakes and lizards.
  • Occasionally: Fish and amphibians.
Crested Hawk-Eagle (Nisaetus cirrhatus)

The Crested Hawk-Eagle is a formidable bird of prey native to the diverse landscapes of Sri Lanka. Known for its impressive hunting skills and striking appearance, this raptor is a prominent feature in the island’s avian community.

Physical Characteristics: The Crested Hawk-Eagle measures about 60-75 cm (24-30 inches) in length, with a wingspan ranging from 130-160 cm (51-63 inches). Weighing between 1.2-2.5 kg (2.6-5.5 lbs), it has a robust build. Its plumage is predominantly dark brown with lighter underparts, and it features a distinctive crest of feathers on its head. The sharp, piercing eyes and powerful beak add to its fierce look, while its broad wings and long tail are well-adapted for soaring and maneuvering through the forest canopy.

Habitat: This eagle thrives in subtropical and tropical moist lowland forests and is often found in montane forests. It adapts well to a variety of forested environments, including primary and secondary forests. Sri Lanka’s rich and varied ecosystems provide an ideal habitat for the Crested Hawk-Eagle, with ample opportunities for hunting and nesting.

Diet: The diet of the Crested Hawk-Eagle is diverse, primarily consisting of:

  • Small to medium-sized mammals (e.g., monkeys, squirrels)
  • Birds (e.g., junglefowl, pigeons)
  • Reptiles (e.g., lizards, snakes)
  • Occasionally, large insects (e.g., grasshoppers, beetles)

Its preferred hunting technique involves soaring high above the forest canopy or perching silently before swooping down on unsuspecting prey with incredible speed and precision.

Behavior: The Crested Hawk-Eagle is known for its loud, high-pitched call, often heard during the early morning and late afternoon. It is a solitary hunter but may be seen in pairs during the breeding season. This eagle’s keen eyesight and powerful talons make it a formidable predator. It uses a combination of stealth and strength to catch its prey, often taking them by surprise.

Conservation Status: According to the IUCN Red List, the Crested Hawk-Eagle is classified as Least Concern (LC), indicating a stable population. However, ongoing conservation efforts are essential to ensure its habitats are preserved and protected from deforestation and human encroachment.

Lifespan: In the wild, the Crested Hawk-Eagle typically lives between 10-15 years, but it can live up to 25 years in captivity under optimal care.