The Andaman serpent eagle, also known as the Andaman dark-serpent eagle or the dark serpent eagle, is a medium-sized bird in the family Accipitridae, the raptor family, that is only found in India on the Andaman Islands. It is currently classified as vulnerable and is experiencing population declines. This species, unlike the Crested serpent eagle, is incredibly understudied and so many things about its behaviour and ecology are still widely unknown.
Region
Andaman Islands, Bay of Bengal
Typical Environment
Occurs across the larger Andaman Islands but is absent from the Nicobars. Prefers primary and mature secondary evergreen forest, forest edges, and mangrove habitats, and also uses coastal forest and wooded hills. Often seen soaring above canopy gaps and ridgelines or perched quietly within tall forest near clearings and streams. It tolerates some habitat mosaic but declines where large trees and continuous cover are removed.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 700 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This dark, island-restricted raptor is found only on India’s Andaman Islands and is notably understudied compared with its mainland relatives. It relies on intact forest and mangroves, and population declines are linked to habitat loss and disturbance. Like other serpent eagles, it specializes in reptilian prey, especially snakes and lizards. Its ringing, whistled calls often betray its presence as it soars over forest canopies.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
soaring glider
Social Behavior
Usually encountered singly or in pairs defending forest territories. Pairs soar together during display, giving far-carrying whistles. Nests are placed high in tall trees; clutch size is typically one egg with both adults attending.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A clear, ringing whistle delivered in series, often 2–4 notes repeated at intervals while soaring. Notes can be wavering or slightly rising and are audible over long distances through forest.
Plumage
Overall dark, sooty-brown to blackish with fine mottling and faint scaling; flight feathers and tail show contrasting pale barring. Short, slightly shaggy crest typical of serpent eagles. Underparts are uniformly dark compared with many mainland relatives.
Diet
Specializes in reptiles, taking snakes and lizards as primary prey. Also captures frogs and occasionally small mammals or large insects when available. Hunts by perch-and-wait from mid to upper canopy, dropping swiftly onto prey on the ground or in low vegetation. Uses strong talons to subdue prey and tears it apart with the hooked bill.
Preferred Environment
Forages along forest edges, clearings, mangroves, and stream margins where visibility is good. Frequently hunts from exposed perches above roads or canopy gaps and then returns to cover to feed. Will soar to scan for movement along ridges and coastal forest.
