Tooltip Categories: Accipitrids
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Black-Winged (Shouldered) Kite
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The Black-winged Kite (Elanus caeruleus), also known as the Black-winged Shouldered Kite, is a small and striking raptor that ranges widely across Africa, southern Europe, and parts of Asia. It thrives in open grasslands, savannas, and agricultural areas, where it actively hunts over wide, open terrain. Adults measure 31–38 cm (12–15 in) in length and
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Bateleur (Bateleur eagle)
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The Bateleur (Terathopius ecaudatus) ranks among Africa’s most striking and instantly recognizable raptors. Its name comes from the French word bateleur, meaning “tightrope walker,” which directly refers to the bird’s distinctive rocking flight. Unlike many birds of prey, the Bateleur displays bold, high-contrast colors. As a result, adults show a bright red face and legs,
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Black-chested Snake Eagle
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The Black-chested Snake Eagle (Circaetus pectoralis) is a powerful and distinctive raptor of sub-Saharan Africa. It is most commonly encountered in savannas, open woodlands, and lightly bushed grasslands where reptiles are abundant. It is immediately recognizable by its striking black chest and upperparts. These contrast strongly with a white belly and underwings marked by fine
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Augur Buzzard
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The augur buzzard (Buteo augur) is a powerful and striking bird of prey. It is commonly found across eastern and northeastern Africa. In particular, it favors open grasslands, highland plateaus, savannas, and agricultural areas. These habitats often provide elevated perches. As a result, the bird is frequently seen sitting conspicuously on trees, poles, or rocky
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Martial Eagle
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The Martial Eagle (Polemaetus bellicosus) is Africa’s largest and most powerful eagle. It dominates open savannas, semi-arid plains, and lightly wooded landscapes across sub-Saharan Africa. Adults typically measure 78–96 cm (31–38 in) in length. They also have an impressive wingspan of 188–260 cm. In addition, they are among the heaviest eagles on the continent, weighing
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Secretarybird
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The Secretarybird (Sagittarius serpentarius) is a striking and unmistakable raptor of Africa’s open grasslands and savannas. It is easily recognized by its long legs, upright stance, and distinctive crest of black feathers. This species is uniquely adapted for hunting on foot rather than from the air. Adults typically stand about 1.2–1.5 m (4–5 ft) tall.
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Tawny Eagle
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The Tawny Eagle (Aquila rapax) is a powerful and adaptable bird of prey found across savannas, open woodlands, and semi-arid regions of Africa. It is a large eagle with variable plumage ranging from pale sandy brown to dark chocolate tones, often with a slightly paler head and nape. Adults typically measure 65–75 cm (26–30 in)
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African Harrier-Hawk
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The African Harrier-Hawk (Polyboroides typus) is a versatile and opportunistic bird of prey found across sub-Saharan Africa, inhabiting forests, savannas, and urban areas. It is easily recognized by its gray body, black flight feathers, and striking yellow facial skin around the eyes. Adults typically measure 55–60 cm (22–24 in) in length, with a wingspan of