Black-and-chestnut eagle

The black-and-chestnut eagle, also known as Isidor's eagle, is a striking bird of prey native to South America. Belonging to the Accipitridae family, it was previously classified in its own genus, Oroaetus, but is now recognized as closely related to the Spizaetus species.

This majestic eagle is easily identifiable by its glossy black head and back, contrasted with a streaky chestnut underside. Its nesting season begins in February and March, with eggs being laid around April and May. Regarding parental duties, the female eagle is primarily responsible for building the nest, incubating the eggs, and caring for the chicks. Meanwhile, the male eagle’s role is to hunt and provide food for the family.

Their diet chiefly consists of arboreal mammals and birds, with a particular preference for woolly monkeys and guans. These eagles inhabit the humid montane forests of the Andes.

Unfortunately, the black-and-chestnut eagle is facing severe threats from habitat loss and human persecution. With an estimated population of only 370 to 1,500 individuals remaining in the wild, it is one of the most endangered birds of prey in the Americas.