Crested Serpent-Eagle
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Crested Serpent-Eagle (Spilornis
cheela).
This is the Crested
Serpent Eagle,
a common raptor here in Malaysia seen mostly in the sky.
It is quite vocal when
in the air. The size of of the adult is 21 inches (53cm). It is stocky and
short-tailed with dark brown
plumage. Its has a black crest, yellow cere
and legs and white
spotted breast and belly.
Occurs in the Indian subcontinent and southern China through South-East
Asia
to the greater Sundas, Bali and the Philippines.
It is resident from low elevation
up to 1200m and is found in the mangroves, scrub and forests.
Usually solitary, frequenting the canopy and crowns of tall trees. Often seen
perched on dead
trees as vantage points to hunt. Raises crest when alarmed. Feeds principally on
snakes and
other vertebrates but will also take poultry in rural settlements.