Sulawesi Serpent Eagle

The Sulawesi serpent eagle, Spilornis rufipectus, is a captivating bird of prey belonging to the family Accipitridae. This raptor is distinguished by its robust build and keen eyes that scan the forest canopy for its prey.

Identification Tips

Adults of this species exhibit a striking appearance with a mix of brown and white plumage, while the immature birds are often a more uniform brown. Keen observers will note the distinctive chestnut coloration on the eagle's underparts.

Habitat

The Sulawesi serpent eagle is perfectly adapted to its environment, making its home in the subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests of Sulawesi, Indonesia.

Distribution

This eagle is an endemic species, meaning it is found nowhere else in the world but on the island of Sulawesi.

Behaviour

The Sulawesi serpent eagle is a solitary creature, often seen gliding silently through the forest canopy. Its behavior is a testament to its role as a masterful predator within its ecosystem.

Conservation status

BirdLife International has assessed the Sulawesi serpent eagle as being of Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. This status indicates that, currently, the species does not face an immediate threat of extinction in the wild.