Nisaetus lanceolatus
The Sulawesi Hawk-Eagle (Nisaetus lanceolatus) is a striking raptor endemic to the island of Sulawesi and its smaller satellite islands in Indonesia, a jewel of the Wallacean region. This medium-sized eagle typically measures 50-64 cm in length with a wingspan of 100-130 cm, displaying dark brown upperparts that contrast with rufous-streaked white underparts. Its most distinctive field mark is a prominent, often shaggy, dark crest, along with piercing yellowish eyes and a banded tail. Immatur...
Found primarily in primary and secondary tropical rainforests, including forest edge and disturbed areas like plantations. Occurs from lowland plains up to montane forests, often exceeding 2000 meters in elevation.
Primarily feeds on small mammals such as squirrels and bats, various birds, and reptiles like lizards and snakes. Forages by perch-hunting and active pursuit through the forest canopy.
The Sulawesi Hawk-Eagle is a diurnal raptor, active throughout the day as it patrols its forested territories. It primarily forages using a perch-and-pounce technique, patiently scanning from a concealed branch before swooping down on unsuspecting prey, though it also employs active pursuit fligh...
The Sulawesi Hawk-Eagle is strictly endemic to Indonesia, confined to the large island of Sulawesi and several of its smaller satellite islands. Its distribution includes major regions of Sulawesi such as Central, North, South, and Southeast Sulawesi. Additionally, it can be found on nearby islan...
Near Threatened
- The Sulawesi Hawk-Eagle is one of the few raptor species endemic to Sulawesi and its immediate satellite islands, making it a unique Indonesian treasure. - Its distinctive long, shaggy crest can be raised vertically in display or flattened against its head, offering varied visual cues. - Once c...