The Flores hawk-eagle is a large raptor in the family Accipitridae. It is an endemic species to the Lesser Sunda Islands in Indonesia. A member of the genus Nisaetus, it was considered as a subspecies of and conspecific with the changeable hawk-eagle but genetic studies have evidenced it as a legitimate species. A forest dwelling predator, this species is classified as endangered due to habitat loss and persecution.
Region
Lesser Sunda Islands
Typical Environment
Occurs on Flores, Sumbawa, Lombok, and nearby smaller islands within the Lesser Sundas. It inhabits primary and older secondary evergreen forests, favoring landscapes with tall emergent trees for nesting. The species hunts along forest edges, ridgelines, and clearings where prey is easier to detect. It generally avoids heavily degraded habitats and open savanna except when moving between forest patches.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1600 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This crest-bearing raptor is endemic to Indonesia’s Lesser Sunda Islands and was long treated as a subspecies of the changeable hawk-eagle before genetic work confirmed its full species status. It relies on tall, mature forest for nesting and hunting, making it highly sensitive to deforestation and persecution. The global population is very small and fragmented, leading to a Critically Endangered listing.
19th century art depicting a Flores hawk-eagle.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
soaring glider with deep, powerful wingbeats and frequent high circling over forest
Social Behavior
Typically seen alone or in pairs, especially during the breeding season. Pairs are monogamous and build large stick nests high in tall forest trees. Breeding attempts are infrequent, often with a clutch of a single egg and prolonged parental care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are sharp, high-pitched whistles and piercing screams, often delivered from a perch or while soaring. Calls become more frequent near the nest and during territorial displays.
