The Southern Banded Snake Eagle is a medium-sized raptor found in coastal and forested regions of southeastern Africa, closely related to the Western Banded Snake Eagle. It specializes in preying on snakes and lizards.
Where to spot
Coastal forests and moist woodlands of southeastern Africa, from Somalia south to South Africa.
How to spot
Similar to the Western Banded Snake Eagle, look for its dark brown plumage, yellow eyes, and a single white band on its tail. Its calls are also distinctive, often a series of rapid 'koo-koo-koo' notes.
When to spot
Year-round, active during daylight. Often seen perched within the canopy or soaring over clearings, especially in the morning.
Where to spot
Coastal forests and moist woodlands of southeastern Africa, from Somalia south to South Africa.
How to spot
Similar to the Western Banded Snake Eagle, look for its dark brown plumage, yellow eyes, and a single white band on its tail. Its calls are also distinctive, often a series of rapid 'koo-koo-koo' notes.
When to spot
Year-round, active during daylight. Often seen perched within the canopy or soaring over clearings, especially in the morning.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Its preferred habitat of dense coastal forests and riverine woodlands makes it somewhat secretive and challenging to observe despite its relatively wide distribution.
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