Spilornis holospilus
The Philippine Serpent Eagle (*Spilornis holospilus*) is a striking medium-sized raptor, endemic to the Philippine archipelago, showcasing remarkable adaptations for its specialized diet. Measuring approximately 47-53 cm in length with a wingspan of 105-120 cm, adults display a predominantly dark brown upperparts contrasting with white underparts heavily barred and spotted with dark brown. A distinctive field mark is its prominent nuchal crest, often flared, giving its head a larger appearanc...
This raptor primarily inhabits tropical and subtropical moist lowland and montane forests, forest edges, and clearings. It can be found from sea level up to elevations of approximately 2,000 meters.
Primarily carnivorous, its diet consists predominantly of snakes and lizards, supplemented with amphibians, small mammals, and large insects. Foraging is mainly done via perch-hunting from elevated positions.
The Philippine Serpent Eagle is a diurnal raptor, typically observed perching watchfully or soaring high on thermals, employing its keen eyesight to locate prey. Foraging strategy primarily involves perch-hunting, where it patiently waits for reptiles from a vantage point before swooping down. Th...
The Philippine Serpent Eagle is a non-migratory, resident species found exclusively throughout the Philippine archipelago. Its distribution encompasses most of the major islands, including Luzon, Mindoro, Palawan, and Mindanao, as well as the Visayan island groups (such as Panay, Negros, Cebu, Bo...
Least Concern
- The Philippine Serpent Eagle is one of six species within the genus *Spilornis*, all specialized in hunting reptiles. - Its prominent nuchal crest can be raised or lowered, often flared during displays or when alarmed. - The bright yellow eyes are a striking feature, believed to aid in spotting...