Stephanoaetus coronatus
The Crowned Eagle (Stephanoaetus coronatus) is a magnificent and powerful raptor, an apex predator of Africa's dense forests. Measuring 80-90 cm (31-35 in) in length with a wingspan of 1.7-2.1 m (5.6-6.9 ft) and weighing 2.5-4.7 kg (5.5-10.4 lbs), it is instantly recognizable by its prominent double crest, dark brown upperparts, and striking white underparts heavily barred with black. Its massive, yellow-eyed gaze and immensely powerful black talons are distinctive field marks. This species f...
This formidable eagle inhabits dense tropical and subtropical rainforests, woodlands, and evergreen montane forests across its African range. It can be found from sea level up to elevations of 3,000 meters (10,000 feet) where suitable tree cover exists.
The Crowned Eagle's diet consists predominantly of mammals, including various monkey species (such as vervet, colobus, and baboons), hyraxes, and small antelopes like duikers. It primarily employs ambush hunting techniques, striking prey from above.
Crowned Eagles are diurnal, primarily active during daylight hours, often perching inconspicuously within the forest canopy or soaring silently above. They are ambush predators, hunting from a hidden perch or through explosive pursuit, utilizing their powerful talons to dispatch prey. Highly terr...
The Crowned Eagle is endemic to sub-Saharan Africa, exhibiting a widespread but fragmented distribution across its forested habitats. Its breeding range extends from West Africa, including countries like Guinea, Sierra Leone, and Ghana, eastwards through the Central African Republic, Democratic R...
Near Threatened
- The Crowned Eagle possesses the strongest talons and foot grip of any raptor relative to its body weight, capable of exerting over 50 kg (110 lbs) of pressure. - It is one of the very few eagles known to actively prey on monkeys, making it a crucial predator in maintaining primate populations. ...