Crested Serpent Eagle

Spilornis cheela

Family: Kites, Old World Vultures, Eagles, and Hawks · Status: Uncommon resident · Size: 56–74 cm · Conservation: Least Concern

Range

Resident across the Indian subcontinent, Sri Lanka, Indochina, southern China, Southeast Asia, and the Greater Sundas. Largely sedentary, with some northern populations migrating south to Southeast Asia.

Identification

Adult has mostly dark greyish-brown plumage, black tail with broad white central band, prominent yellow cere, facial skin and eyes, short blackish crest, and whitish spots on the lower breast and belly. In flight, the broad white underwing band contrasts with broad black trailing edge. Juvenile has duller, whitish-fringed upperparts and whitish underparts with dark streaks.

Habitat

Forests, wooded areas, gardens, and parks.

Behaviour

Feeds primarily on reptiles like snakes, lizards and frogs.