Spilornis rufipectus
The Sulawesi Serpent Eagle (*Spilornis rufipectus*) is a striking medium-sized raptor, endemic to the Indonesian island of Sulawesi and its satellite islands. Measuring 41-50 cm in length with a wingspan of 88-104 cm, it is characterized by its dark brown upperparts and a distinctive rufous breast, which contrasts sharply with its white belly and flanks that are heavily barred with dark brown. Key field marks include bright yellow eyes, cere, and feet, along with a short, spiky crest that is ...
This raptor primarily inhabits tropical rainforests, forest edges, and often tolerates disturbed or degraded forest areas, typically found from lowlands up to lower montane elevations around 1,000 meters.
Their diet consists predominantly of snakes and lizards, supplemented occasionally by frogs and small rodents, captured via a perch-hunting method.
Sulawesi Serpent Eagles are diurnal, frequently observed soaring high above the canopy or perched patiently on a prominent branch, scanning for prey. Their primary foraging strategy involves perch-hunting, where they drop swiftly from a vantage point to snatch reptiles from the forest floor or ve...
The Sulawesi Serpent Eagle is entirely endemic to Indonesia, with its distribution centered on the large island of Sulawesi. Its range extends to several satellite islands, including Muna, Buton, and the Togian Islands. A distinct subspecies, *Spilornis rufipectus sulaensis*, is found on the Bang...
Least Concern
- The Sulawesi Serpent Eagle is endemic to Sulawesi and a few surrounding islands, meaning it is found nowhere else in the world. - Its scientific name, *rufipectus*, directly translates to 'red-breasted,' referring to its most distinctive plumage feature. - Despite its name, this species preys o...