The Mentawai Serpent Eagle is a medium-sized raptor endemic to the Mentawai Islands off Sumatra, Indonesia. It is a forest specialist, preying mainly on snakes and lizards within the dense island forests.
Where to spot
Lowland primary and secondary forests on the Mentawai Islands (Siberut, Sipora, North Pagai, South Pagai), Indonesia.
How to spot
Look for its rufous-tinged breast, dark brown upperparts, and broad wings. Like other serpent eagles, it often perches prominently or soars above the forest canopy. Its calls can also help in detection.
When to spot
Year-round, active during daylight. Best observed by patient scanning of forest edges or areas with emergent trees within its limited range.
Where to spot
Lowland primary and secondary forests on the Mentawai Islands (Siberut, Sipora, North Pagai, South Pagai), Indonesia.
How to spot
Look for its rufous-tinged breast, dark brown upperparts, and broad wings. Like other serpent eagles, it often perches prominently or soars above the forest canopy. Its calls can also help in detection.
When to spot
Year-round, active during daylight. Best observed by patient scanning of forest edges or areas with emergent trees within its limited range.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Its specific epithet 'rufipectus' refers to its reddish breast, a key identification feature distinguishing it from similar species in the region.
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