Brown snake eagle

The Brown Snake Eagle is a captivating bird of prey native to West, East, and southern Africa. Renowned for its solitary behavior, this eagle primarily preys on snakes. Despite its natural rarity, it is classified as a species of Least Concern due to its broad distribution.

These eagles flourish in open woodlands and wooded savannas, favoring areas with dense tree cover. They are widely dispersed across Africa and exhibit some nomadic tendencies, with territories extending up to 200 kilometers.

In terms of appearance, the Brown Snake Eagle boasts dark brown plumage complemented by whitish-grey flight feathers. It has a large head, bare legs, and a relatively small wingspan. Among snake eagles, it stands out for its size and power, capable of hunting a variety of snakes, including venomous species. Their diet also encompasses monitor lizards, toads, and small mammals.

Breeding periods vary by region: from November to July in the northern parts of its range, December to July in Zimbabwe, and February to October in Kenya. These eagles build small nests in trees. Typically, the female lays a single egg and handles the majority of the incubation while the male provides food. Once hatched, the eaglet is tended by both parents until it fledges at around 97 to 113 days and gains independence shortly thereafter.

The Brown Snake Eagle generally has a lifespan of between 7 and 10 years. Although they may be somewhat scarce, their extensive range ensures they remain a species of Least Concern from a conservation standpoint.