Philippine Serpent Eagle

Overview

The Philippine serpent eagle (Spilornis holospilus) is an eagle endemic to the major islands of the Philippines. It is sometimes treated as a race of the crested serpent eagle (Spilornis cheela) and is currently classified as Least Concern by the IUCN.

Identification

• Length of 47 to 53 cm with a wingspan of 105 to 120 cm.
• Monotypic species.

Habitat

This species is usually found in forest clearings, open woodlands, and cultivated lands with scattered trees. Its natural habitats include tropical moist lowland forest, montane forest, and second growth areas up to 2,500 meters above sea level. It is found on most of the major islands of the Philippines, except for Palawan.

Diet

The bird feeds on amphibians, reptiles, and other live prey.

Did you know?

Very little is known about the breeding habits of this species, though a female was collected in April 2020 with a single egg in its oviducts.