Facts about Long-crested Eagle
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Across sub-Saharan Africa, long-crested eagles breed during the dry season from December through June, with eggs hatching after approximately 45 days of incubation.
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Monogamous pairs of long-crested eagles construct massive stick nests in tall forest trees that can measure up to 1.5 meters in diameter and be reused for multiple breeding seasons.
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Weighing between 1.3 and 1.9 kilograms, long-crested eagles rank among the smaller forest eagles despite their imposing appearance in the canopy.
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Juvenile long-crested eagles develop their full crest plumage gradually over their first 2-3 years before reaching sexual maturity and establishing territories.
- 05
Long-crested eagles produce a distinctive high-pitched, whistling call during territorial displays that can be heard across several kilometers of forest habitat.
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Pairs of long-crested eagles maintain territorial bonds year-round, with both sexes participating equally in nest building and incubation duties across their sub-Saharan African range.
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Crowned with a distinctive crest, long-crested eagles occupy forest canopies across sub-Saharan Africa where they perch motionless for extended periods while hunting from elevated vantage points.
- 02
African forests and savanna woodland edges host long-crested eagles that hunt medium-sized prey including hyraxes, francolins, and other birds weighing up to 2 kilograms.
- 01
The long-crested eagle's distinctive crest can raise up to 15 centimeters when the bird is alarmed or displaying to potential mates.