PHILIPPINE SERPENT EAGLE
Spilornis holospilus
Accipitridae Family

L 510mm (20") Wingspan 1070mm(42")

Bird #82 - December 2008

We first spotted one while we were on the road to Makiling Center for the Arts. We were not able to identify it because we couldn't get a photo. Then, later in the day, on the road on the way to the last resort, Tonji made a "prediction". He said that because the sun suddenly came out and it became quite hot, this would cause thermals, and so we could expect to see the raptor again. And he was right! We saw this one -- possibly a 2nd bird. The people by the side of the road were very helpful! They helped us spot it when it circled out of our view and then we were able to take a picture!

This raptor has a high pitched cry, "wee wee wee" .

One of the most common raptors probably next to the Brahminy Kite. Noisy and easy to spot. Usually noticed after hearing it call out.

It used to be called Crested Serpent Eagle but has since been split and is now called Philippine Serpent Eagle. The bird found in Palawan is the Crested Serpent Eagle.