Circaetus cinerascens
The Western Banded Snake Eagle (`Circaetus cinerascens`) is a medium-sized raptor specializing in reptilian prey, a characteristic shared with its close relatives in the `Circaetus` genus, including the Brown Snake Eagle and Black-chested Snake Eagle. Measuring 43-50 cm (17-20 in) in length with a wingspan of 90-105 cm (35-41 in) and weighing 420-1100 g (0.9-2.4 lbs), it presents a compact, powerful build. Adults are distinctly dark brown above, with a greyish head, bright yellow eyes, and a ...
Primarily found in riverine forests, moist woodlands, and savanna habitats, often associated with water bodies like rivers, lakes, and swamps. It occurs from sea level up to around 2,000 meters in elevation.
Feeds predominantly on snakes, often venomous ones, but also consumes lizards, frogs, small mammals, and occasionally birds. It hunts by pouncing from a perch or in flight.
A generally solitary and diurnal raptor, the Western Banded Snake Eagle spends much of its day perched secretively within tree cover, often scanning the ground for prey. Its foraging strategy involves patient observation from a perch, followed by a swift, silent pounce onto unsuspecting snakes or...
The Western Banded Snake Eagle is widely distributed across sub-Saharan Africa, primarily inhabiting the tropical and subtropical regions. Its breeding range extends from Senegal and Gambia in the west, eastward through the Central African Republic, northern Democratic Republic of Congo, and sout...
Least Concern
- The Western Banded Snake Eagle possesses exceptionally keen eyesight, allowing it to spot camouflaged snakes from high perches. - Unlike many raptors, it lacks feathered tarsi (lower legs), an adaptation believed to offer better protection against snake bites during hunts. - It is one of the sm...