The Sulawesi hawk-eagle, also known as Celebes hawk-eagle, is a medium-sized, approximately 64 cm (25 in) long, crestless brown raptor in the family Accipitridae. The adults have rufous-brown, boldly marked head and chest feathers, dark brown wings and black-barred white below. The young has white head and underparts.
Region
Sulawesi and nearby satellite islands, Indonesia
Typical Environment
Occurs throughout Sulawesi’s lowland and montane forests, including primary and well-structured secondary growth. It uses forest interiors, edges, and riverine corridors, and will hunt along clearings and ridge crests. The species is most frequently observed soaring above canopy gaps or perching quietly within tall emergent trees. It persists in selectively logged habitats if large trees remain, but is sensitive to extensive fragmentation.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Endemic to Sulawesi, Indonesia, this crestless hawk-eagle is a forest specialist often seen soaring above ridgelines. It is threatened by ongoing deforestation and hunting pressure and is protected under Indonesian law. Distinctive rufous head and heavily barred white underparts help separate it from other regional raptors.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
soaring glider with steady interspersed wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically encountered singly or in territorial pairs. Pairs engage in aerial displays over forested ridges during the breeding season. Nests are placed high in tall canopy trees and usually a single chick is raised with extended parental care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are sharp, piercing whistles and scream-like calls, often delivered while soaring. Calls may be repeated in series during territorial displays or near the nest.
Plumage
Adults show rufous-brown, boldly marked head and chest, dark brown upperparts, and white underparts with strong black barring; tail with broad dark bands. Juveniles are paler with whitish head and underparts and less barring. The species lacks a crest and has powerful, heavily feathered legs.
Diet
A opportunistic forest raptor that preys on birds (such as pigeons and parrots), small mammals including squirrels and bats, and reptiles like lizards and snakes. It hunts by soaring to scan canopy openings or by perch-hunting from secluded vantage points. Ambush strikes are rapid and powerful, using strong talons to subdue prey.
Preferred Environment
Foraging is concentrated along forest edges, clearings, and ridgelines where prey movement is easier to detect. It also works along river corridors and within mature forest with good canopy structure.
