Southern Banded Snake Eagle

The Southern Banded Snake Eagle, known scientifically as Circaetus fasciolatus, presents itself as a rather compact raptor with a robust build. It boasts a large, rounded head capped with a hooded beak, and its plumage is a study in contrast: a grey-brown head set against predominantly blackish-brown upperparts, while the underparts remain a stark whitish hue. The tail is noteworthy for its white tip and the trio of dark bands visible on its underside. Observers will note the pale yellow eyes, yellow feet and cere, and the stark black bill. Juveniles differ with a lack of the grey head, darker upperparts, and streaked whitish underparts.

Identification Tips

When identifying the Southern Banded Snake Eagle, look for its large, rounded head and the distinct coloration of its plumage. The grey-brown head, blackish-brown upperparts, and whitish underparts are key features, along with the white-tipped tail marked by dark bands. The pale yellow eyes and yellow cere are also indicative of this species. Females are generally larger than males, with a total length ranging from 55 to 60 cm.

Habitat

This species is a denizen of the forest, favoring evergreen coastal forests and dense inland forests that are in proximity to wetlands. Occasionally, it may venture into more open woodland areas.

Distribution

The Southern Banded Snake Eagle is found in a narrow coastal strip in East Africa, stretching from southern Somalia to northeastern Kwazulu-Natal, and extending inland along the Save River into southeastern Zimbabwe.

Behaviour

This snake eagle is known for its unobtrusive nature, often detected by its distinctive, high-pitched call rather than sight. It hunts primarily from a perch, keenly scanning its surroundings for prey.

Song & Calls

The call of the Southern Banded Snake Eagle is a noisy and high-pitched "ko-ko-ko-kaw," which it emits repeatedly, whether perched or in flight.

Breeding

Both sexes collaborate in nest construction, creating an open platform of sticks with a lined inner cup for the single egg laid between August and October. The female predominantly incubates the egg for about 50 days, with occasional relief from the male. Post-hatching, both parents are involved in feeding the young, primarily with snakes torn into manageable pieces.

Diet and Feeding

True to its name, the Southern Banded Snake Eagle feeds mainly on snakes, which it may tear apart or swallow whole depending on the size. Its diet also includes lizards, frogs, and termite alates.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List currently classifies the Southern Banded Snake Eagle as Near Threatened, indicating that it faces threats that could lead to its vulnerability in the near future.