Sulawesi Hawk-Eagle

The Sulawesi hawk-eagle, known scientifically as Nisaetus lanceolatus, is a medium-sized raptor of approximately 64 cm in length. It is a crestless bird with a robust build, characterized by its rufous-brown head and chest feathers that are boldly marked. The wings are a dark brown, while the underparts are barred with black and white.

Identification Tips

Adults of this species can be identified by their distinctive rufous-brown head and chest, contrasted with dark brown wings and black-barred white underparts. Juveniles, on the other hand, present with a white head and underparts, making them distinguishable from the adults.

Habitat

This bird of prey is native to the rainforests of Sulawesi and its neighboring satellite islands, including Buton, Muna, Banggai, and Sula Islands.

Distribution

The Sulawesi hawk-eagle is an Indonesian endemic, with its presence confined to Sulawesi and the aforementioned satellite islands.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of the Sulawesi hawk-eagle primarily consists of birds, lizards, snakes, and mammals, which it hunts within its rainforest habitat.

Conservation status

The Sulawesi hawk-eagle is currently evaluated as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. It is also listed on Appendix II of CITES, indicating that while it is not currently threatened with extinction, it may become so without trade controls.