Pygmy Eagle

The Pygmy Eagle, scientifically known as Hieraaetus weiskei, is a remarkable bird of prey, distinguished by its status as one of the smallest eagle species in the world. This diminutive raptor is a member of the Accipitridae family and is found in the lush forests of New Guinea.

Identification Tips

When observing the Pygmy Eagle, one can note its size, which ranges from 38 to 48 cm in length, with a wingspan of 112 to 126 cm. The females are slightly larger than the males. Its plumage varies with morphs, presenting either light or dark coloration. The dark morph is similar to that of the Little Eagle, while the light morph exhibits more pronounced dark streaking. The underwing pattern is unique and shared with the Booted Eagle. The eagle's feet are typically grey or dull yellow.

Habitat

The Pygmy Eagle favors the subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests and montane forests of New Guinea. It is often found in closed forest environments but is also known to inhabit open habitats and forest edges.

Distribution

This species is sparsely distributed across the hilly forests of New Guinea, with notable observations in the densely forested Vogelkop, also known as the Bird's Head Peninsula. Sightings have also occurred on the island of Buru and in the northern Moluccas.

Behaviour

The Pygmy Eagle exhibits a preference for soaring and diving on prey within forest canopies. It is adept at swift dives and is known to attack other avian species such as the Brown Cuckoo-Dove and Mountain Fruit-Dove.

Song & Calls

The vocalizations of the Pygmy Eagle include a distinctive "sip sip yeeee" heard during flight, reminiscent of the calls of the Little Eagle and Booted Eagle. Additionally, it may emit a weaker, single-tone squeal.

Diet and Feeding

This raptor engages in low soaring over canopies to scan for prey, followed by rapid dives to capture birds within the canopy.

Conservation status

The Pygmy Eagle is currently listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, indicating that it is not at immediate risk of widespread decline.