The Congo serpent eagle is a species of bird of prey in the family Accipitridae. This species is distributed across the African tropical rainforest, including upper and lower Guinean forests. This serpent eagle specializes in hunting in these forests' dark understories. It has two subspecies, the nominate subspecies Circaetus spectabilis spectabilis and Circaetus spectabilis batesi. This hawk is a medium-sized bird with distinctive short, rounded wings and a long, rounded tail. It is varying shades of brown on its back and has a slight crest. Its breast is white with variable amounts of a rufous wash and, in the nominate subspecies, is covered in round, blackish spots. The subspecies C. s. batesi only has these dots on its flanks. The Congo serpent eagle closely resembles Cassin's hawk-eagle, and some ornithologists believe that this likeness is a rare example of avian mimicry. It is a very vocal raptor, and often is one of the most heard species in its habitat.
Region
Central and West Africa
Typical Environment
Occupies primary and mature secondary lowland evergreen rainforest, especially dense, shaded understory and midstory layers. It uses riverine forest, swamp forest, and forest edges but generally avoids open habitats. Birds perch quietly inside the canopy and make short sallies to capture prey on the forest floor or from vegetation. It tolerates some selective logging where substantial canopy cover remains.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A secretive forest raptor, the Congo serpent eagle specializes in hunting within the dim understory of Central and West African rainforests. It likely mimics the appearance of Cassin's hawk-eagle, a rare example of avian mimicry among raptors. Two subspecies are recognized, with the nominate form showing bold round spots on the breast while C. s. batesi has spotting confined to the flanks. Often heard before seen, it gives piercing, far-carrying whistles.
Syrinx morphology
Adult of the nominate subspecies
Congo serpent eagle in Ghana.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief glides; agile within the forest understory
Social Behavior
Typically encountered singly or in pairs that maintain territories within extensive forest tracts. Breeding is presumed monogamous, with a small stick nest placed high in the canopy. Clutch size is usually one egg, with both adults contributing to incubation and care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocal and far-carrying, delivering clear, high-pitched whistles and ringing calls repeated at intervals. Calls are often given from concealed perches within the canopy and can dominate the soundscape of intact rainforest.
