Contact
Contact
Roar & Rove

Crested Serpent Eagle

Content Image
Conservation status

IUCN Red List: Least Concern (LC)

LIFE SPAN
  • In the Wild: Typically 10-15 years
  • In Captivity: Can live up to 25 years
Body size
  • Length: Approximately 55-75 cm (22-30 inches)
  • Wingspan: Approximately 100-160 cm (39-63 inches)
  • Weight: Around 1.0-1.8 kg (2.2-4 lbs)
Native habitat
  • Geographical Range: Found in South and Southeast Asia, including India, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines.
  • Habitat: Prefers subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests, but can also be found in mangrove forests, and occasionally in plantations and secondary growth areas.
Diet
  • Snakes (both venomous and non-venomous)
  • Other reptiles (e.g., lizards)
  • Amphibians (e.g., frogs)
  • Small mammals (e.g., rodents, small birds)
  • Large insects (e.g., grasshoppers, beetles)
Crested Serpent Eagle (Spilornis cheela)

The Crested Serpent Eagle is a magnificent bird of prey native to the lush landscapes of Sri Lanka. It is known for its striking appearance and keen hunting abilities.

Physical Characteristics: The Crested Serpent Eagle measures about 55-75 cm (22-30 inches) in length, with a wingspan ranging from 100-160 cm (39-63 inches). Weighing between 1.0-1.8 kg (2.2-4 lbs), it boasts a powerful build. Its plumage is a blend of dark brown and black, with distinctive white and yellow markings around the eyes, which contribute to its fierce look. The broad wings and short tail are well-adapted for maneuvering through dense forests.

Habitat: This eagle thrives in subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests and can often be spotted in mangrove forests. Occasionally, it adapts to plantations and secondary growth areas. Sri Lanka’s diverse ecosystems provide an ideal habitat for this majestic raptor.

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

  • Snakes (both venomous and non-venomous)
  • Other reptiles (e.g., lizards)
  • Amphibians (e.g., frogs)
  • Small mammals (e.g., rodents, small birds)
  • Large insects (e.g., grasshoppers, beetles)

Its preferred hunting technique involves perching quietly before swooping down on unsuspecting prey with precision and power.

Behavior: The Crested Serpent Eagle is known for its distinctive call, a loud and piercing whistle that echoes through the forest. Although it often hunts alone, it maintains contact with other eagles through various forms of communication, including vocalizations, scent markings, and visual displays. This eagle’s keen eyesight and sharp talons make it an efficient predator in its natural habitat.

Conservation Status: According to the IUCN Red List, the Crested Serpent Eagle is classified as Least Concern (LC), indicating a stable population. However, continued conservation efforts are vital to ensure that its natural habitats are preserved and protected from deforestation and other environmental threats.

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

Discover the wonders of the Crested Serpent Eagle on your next safari tour in Sri Lanka, where the beauty and diversity of the island’s wildlife come alive before your eyes.