The Long-Crested Eagle: A Striking Bird from Sub-Saharan Africa

As we continue our exciting journey towards our 500th Birdorable species, we're delighted to introduce a new bird each day. Today, we're proud to feature the Long-crested Eagle, a majestic bird of prey that adds a touch of wild elegance to our growing collection.

The Long-crested Eagle is a striking bird found in various parts of sub-Saharan Africa. Its preferred habitats include forested areas and the edges of forests, where it can take advantage of both open spaces and wooded cover. These eagles have also adapted to living in cultivated lands, demonstrating their versatility and ability to coexist in modified landscapes.

One of the most notable characteristics of the Long-crested Eagle is its vocal nature. These birds are not shy about making their presence known. They are known to be very vocal, emitting calls both in flight and while perched. Their calls become even more frequent and intense during the breeding season, serving as a means of communication between mates and a way to establish and defend their territory.

Long-crested eagle (Lophaetus occipitalis) by Lip Kee (CC BY-SA 2.0)

The Long-crested Eagle is easily identifiable by its prominent crest, from which it gets its name. This crest, along with their striking plumage and formidable presence, makes them a fascinating species for bird enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Tomorrow's bird is a New World warbler named for what it eats, sort of.