Spilornis elgini
The Andaman Serpent Eagle, *Spilornis elgini*, is a striking medium-sized raptor endemic to the Andaman Islands. This magnificent bird measures approximately 55-60 cm in length with a wingspan of around 120-130 cm, showcasing a robust build characteristic of its genus. Adults exhibit a dark brown to blackish upper plumage, contrasted by a whitish belly and flanks finely barred with rufous or chestnut, providing excellent camouflage within its forest habitat. A key identification feature is it...
This raptor primarily inhabits dense evergreen and moist deciduous forests, often found near streams or clearings. It prefers low to moderate elevations across the Andaman Islands.
Its diet primarily consists of snakes and lizards, but also includes frogs, small mammals, and occasionally birds, all captured through a 'still-hunting' perch-and-pounce method.
The Andaman Serpent Eagle is largely diurnal, typically observed soaring over forest canopies or perched silently on a high branch, scanning for prey. Its primary foraging strategy is 'still-hunting,' patiently watching from a vantage point before making a swift, powerful dive to capture prey. Te...
The Andaman Serpent Eagle is strictly endemic to the Andaman Islands, an archipelago in the Bay of Bengal, India. Its distribution is confined to the evergreen and moist deciduous forests found across this island chain, encompassing North Andaman, Middle Andaman, South Andaman, and Little Andaman...
Near Threatened
- The Andaman Serpent Eagle is an endemic species, found nowhere else in the world, making it a unique treasure of the Andaman Islands. - Its genus name, *Spilornis*, means 'spotted bird,' referring to the distinctive barring and spotting on its underparts. - Despite its name, 'serpent eagle,' it...