Secretarybird

Sagittarius serpentarius

A quill-like quiff

The secretarybird got its name in the 19th century – supposedly because the bird’s remarkable crest reminded Europeans of the court secretaries who would keep their quills tucked behind their ears.

Charakteristics

Origin
Africa
Habitat
Open or sparsely vegetated savannah, agricultural areas, semi-deserts
Diet
Insects, small mammals, lizards, snakes, eggs and chicks, amphibians
Status
vulnerable

Size
2 to 3 m
Weight
approx. 3 kg
Breeding season
up to 45 days
Achievable age
up to 30 years

Threat Categories of IUCN

A lethal kick

A powerful, accurate kick to the spine is enough for the secretarybird to kill its prey. Since poisonous snakes also form part of the bird’s diet, it must rely on its skill and speed when executing this manoeuvre.

Did you know?

Secretarybirds can cover up to 20 km per day on foot.
The bird’s wingspan can reach over two metres.
The secretarybird is a raptor, even though it hunts on the ground.

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