The Western Banded Snake Eagle is a small to medium-sized raptor found in central and western Africa, specializing in hunting snakes and lizards. It is distinguished by its dark plumage and a single white band on its tail.
Where to spot
Dense primary and secondary forests, woodlands, and gallery forests across West and Central Africa, from Senegal to Angola.
How to spot
Look for its overall dark brown plumage, bright yellow eyes, and a single broad white band on its otherwise dark tail. Listen for its distinctive, mournful calls, which are often the first sign of its presence in dense forest.
When to spot
Year-round, active during daylight. Often perches hidden within the canopy or makes short flights across clearings.
Where to spot
Dense primary and secondary forests, woodlands, and gallery forests across West and Central Africa, from Senegal to Angola.
How to spot
Look for its overall dark brown plumage, bright yellow eyes, and a single broad white band on its otherwise dark tail. Listen for its distinctive, mournful calls, which are often the first sign of its presence in dense forest.
When to spot
Year-round, active during daylight. Often perches hidden within the canopy or makes short flights across clearings.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Like other snake eagles, it has thick scales on its legs to protect against snake bites, an essential adaptation for its specialized diet.
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