Lophaetus occipitalis
The Long-crested Eagle (Lophaetus occipitalis) is a striking medium-sized raptor, easily identified by its prominent, shaggy crest that gives it its name, extending from the crown to the nape. This elegant bird typically measures 50-58 cm in length with a wingspan of 110-130 cm and weighs between 0.9-1.4 kg, displaying predominantly dark brown to black plumage. Its bright yellow eyes contrast sharply with its dark head, and in flight, distinctive white patches at the base of the primary feath...
This raptor primarily inhabits forest edges, woodlands, moist savannas, riverine forests, and plantations, often near water bodies, at elevations from sea level up to 3000 meters.
The diet of the Long-crested Eagle consists overwhelmingly of small mammals, primarily rodents, which it hunts using a 'sit-and-wait' perch-hunting method. Occasionally, small birds, reptiles, amphibians, and large insects are also consumed.
A diurnal raptor, the Long-crested Eagle is a master of the 'sit-and-wait' predation strategy, often perching conspicuously on tall trees, power poles, or elevated vantage points for extended periods. From these perches, it scans the ground below with its keen eyesight and acute hearing for small...
The Long-crested Eagle is a widespread resident species found throughout sub-Saharan Africa, generally avoiding only the driest deserts and densest rainforests. Its range extends from Senegal and Gambia in the west, eastwards through the Sahel and Horn of Africa, including countries like Ethiopia...
Least Concern
- Despite being called an 'eagle', the Long-crested Eagle is one of the smallest eagles in Africa, often earning it the nickname 'mouse-eagle' due to its primary diet of rodents. - Its specific epithet 'occipitalis' is Latin for 'of the occiput' or 'back of the head', a direct reference to its pr...