The Philippine hawk-eagle or north Philippine hawk-eagle, earlier treated under Spizaetus, is a species of bird of prey in the family Accipitridae. Many taxonomists consider the Pinsker's hawk-eagle, a former subspecies, raised to full species status. It is endemic to the Philippines. Its natural habitat is tropical moist lowland forests. It is threatened by habitat loss and trapping.
Region
Northern Philippines
Typical Environment
Occurs in primary and mature secondary lowland to foothill forests, and occasionally in montane forest. It favors extensive, continuous canopy but may hunt along forest edges, ridgelines, and riverine corridors. Nesting typically occurs in tall emergent trees within undisturbed tracts. Human disturbance and deforestation restrict it to increasingly fragmented habitats.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the north Philippine hawk-eagle, it was formerly placed in the genus Spizaetus and split from Pinsker's hawk-eagle. It is a forest raptor with a bold, shaggy crest and heavily streaked underparts, often heard by its piercing whistles. Habitat loss and trapping for the wildlife trade are its main threats, making it one of the Philippines’ most imperiled raptors.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
soaring flier with circling glides and powerful bursts through forest
Social Behavior
Typically encountered singly or in pairs, maintaining large territories over forested landscapes. Pairs build large stick nests high in emergent trees and usually raise a single chick. Courtship involves soaring displays and vocal duets.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives sharp, high-pitched whistles and repeated piercing calls that carry over forest canopies. Vocalizations often increase during early morning and breeding displays.
