Secretarybird Bird Details

Sagittarius serpentarius
Secretarybird,Secretarius;
Sachiv Pakshi
Carl Linnaeus
Accipitriformes (HAWKS, EAGLES and KITES)
Sagittariidae
Sagittarius

South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Kenya, Tanzania, Zambia, Mozambique

Appearance :
Distinctive long legs and a long tail. The body is predominantly gray with a black crest on the head. Black feathers on the wings and tail create a striking contrast with the lighter body.
Behaviour :
Generally found alone or in pairs, but can sometimes be seen in small groups. Known for its unique hunting behavior, which includes a distinctive high-stepping walk while searching for prey.
Habitat :
Prefers open grasslands, savannas, and areas with sparse vegetation. Often found near water sources, as they hunt for snakes and other small animals.
Diet :
Primarily feeds on snakes, but also preys on small mammals, birds, and insects. Known for its ability to kill venomous snakes, which it does by stomping on them.
Conservation Status :
Least Concern
Distribution :
Found across sub-Saharan Africa. Populations are more abundant in eastern and southern Africa.
Population Size :
Population estimates vary, but they are generally considered to be stable.
Life Span :
Can live up to 10 to 15 years in the wild.
Body And Tarsus:
  • Body: The Secretarybird is a large, long-legged raptor with a striking appearance characterized by its long neck and tail. It has a unique walking style, often described as high-stepping.
  • Tarsus Length: Approximately 20 to 25 cm (7.9 to 9.8 in), adapted for walking and hunting on the ground.
Head And Bill :
  • Head: Relatively small compared to the body, with a pronounced crest of feathers.
  • Bill: Strong and hooked, suited for tearing flesh.
  • Bill Length: About 5 to 6 cm (2.0 to 2.4 in).
Length :
Ranges from 80 to 100 cm (31 to 39 in).
Neck :
Long and slender.
Size :
Males and females are similar in size
Tail Details :
  • Tail: Long and narrow, contributing to the bird's overall elegance and balance during flight.
  • Tail Length: Approximately 40 to 50 cm (15.7 to 19.7 in).
  • Feathers: The body is predominantly gray, with black wing and tail feathers. The long crest of feathers on the head is particularly distinctive.
Weight :
Generally weighs between 2.3 to 4.2 kg (5.1 to 9.2 lbs).
Wing :
Long and narrow wings that are well-suited for soaring.
Wing Span :
Approximately 2 to 2.3 meters (6.6 to 7.5 ft).
Facial Feature :
The Secretarybird has a distinct appearance with a small head, long neck, and striking yellow facial skin. Its long crest of feathers contributes to its unique profile.
Nest Details :

Nest: Typically built in trees, shrubs, or occasionally on the ground. Nests are often situated in open areas near grasslands or savannas.

Nest Made Up Of: Sticks and twigs, Grass and leaves, Occasionally lined with softer materials like feathers

Breeding Season :
Typically breeds between May and September.
Nesting Season :
The nesting season coincides with the breeding season.
Egg Color :
Generally pale bluish or white, sometimes with light brown speckles.
Egg Length :
Approximately 5 to 6 cm (2.0 to 2.4 in).
Egg Width and Weight :
  • Egg Width: About 3.5 to 4.0 cm (1.4 to 1.6 in).
  • Egg Weight: Eggs weigh around 40 to 50 grams (1.4 to 1.8 oz).
Clutch Size :
Usually consists of 2 to 4 eggs, although 1 to 5 eggs can occur in some instances.
No. of Broods :
Typically raises one brood per breeding season.
Incubation Period :
Lasts about 42 to 45 days.
Nestling Period :
Chicks fledge approximately 60 to 70 days after hatching.
Vocalization :
Secretarybirds are generally quiet but can produce a range of vocalizations, including hissing, chattering, and low-frequency coos.
Sex Demorphism :
Males tend to be slightly larger than females.
Migration Details :
  • Migration Pattern: The Secretarybird is primarily a resident species in its range and does not migrate long distances. However, some local movements may occur in response to seasonal changes and availability of food.
  • Migration Period: While they are generally residents, they may move seasonally within their range to find better feeding opportunities.
  • Migration Route: Local movements may occur between different habitats, typically from breeding areas to foraging sites, but these are not extensive migrations like those seen in other bird species.

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