Crested Eagle

The Crested Eagle, Morphnus guianensis, stands as a majestic figure in the Neotropical realm. This solitary species, the sole representative of its genus, boasts an impressive stature, reaching up to 89 cm in length, with a wingspan stretching to 176 cm, and tipping the scales at a weight of up to 3 kg. Its plumage is a tapestry of variation, ranging from light brownish-gray to a deep sooty gray or even blackish in some individuals. A white throat and a distinctive dark spot on its crest, coupled with a small dark mask across the eyes, mark its noble visage.

Identification Tips

The Crested Eagle is a large yet slender raptor, with a pronounced head crowned by an often extended feather crest. Its bare legs and sizable tarsus, measuring between 10.3 to 11.2 cm, support its formidable frame. The tail is relatively long, contributing to the eagle's lower weight for its size. Its wings, though short for its body, are broad and rounded, an adaptation for navigating dense forest canopies. The juvenile's plumage is a stark contrast to the adult's, with a white head and chest that gradually transitions to a sandy-gray in the second year.

Habitat

This eagle favors the humid lowland forests, predominantly old-growth tropical rainforests, but also inhabits gallery forests and forest ravines. Its presence is most commonly noted from sea level to 600 m, with some sightings in Andean foothill forests up to 1,600 m.

Distribution

The Crested Eagle's domain extends from northern Guatemala through Central and South America, with its stronghold in the Amazonian basin. Its range encompasses diverse countries, including Belize, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, Venezuela, Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana, Brazil, Ecuador, Peru, Paraguay, Bolivia, and Argentina.

Behaviour

A still-hunter by nature, the Crested Eagle is known to perch for extended periods, vigilantly scanning the forest for prey. It is a solitary creature, typically observed alone or in pairs, and exhibits a breeding pattern that suggests a biennial cycle, with a single eaglet usually hatching from the clutch.

Song & Calls

The male Crested Eagle announces his presence with a loud call, particularly when delivering food to the nest.

Breeding

The breeding season commences around March-April, with nests constructed in the main fork of large, emergent forest trees. The nest, often concealed by canopy greenery, is large with a shallow cup. The diligent female tends to the single eaglet, protecting it from the elements, while the male primarily provides sustenance.

Similar Species

The Crested Eagle may be confused with the Harpy Eagle, its close relative, but can be distinguished by its smaller prey preference and unique plumage variations.

Diet and Feeding

The Crested Eagle's diet is predominantly composed of small mammals, including various monkey species, arboreal rodents, opossums, sloths, and kinkajous. It also preys on reptiles, such as snakes and lizards, and occasionally on birds and tree frogs.

Conservation Status

Classified as Near Threatened by the IUCN, the Crested Eagle faces threats from habitat destruction and hunting. With an estimated population of only 1,000 to 10,000 breeding adults, conservation efforts are critical to ensure the survival of this regal raptor.