Harpy Eagle

DESCRIPTION:

The Harpy Eagle is one of the largest and most powerful birds of prey in the world.  They are about 3 feet long and have a wingspan of about 6 and 1/2 feet. They have talons that are up to 5 inches long, as long as the claws of a grizzly bear. The backside of the Harpy Eagle is covered with slate black feathers, and the underside is covered with white. There is a black band across the chest up to the neck. The head is pale gray, and is crowned with a double crest.

LOCATION:

The Harpy Eagle lives in Central and South America.

HABITAT:

The Harpy Eagle lives in rainforests.

BABIES:

Baby Harpy Eagles are hatched in large nests located high in trees or cliffs.  The mother usually lays 2 eggs at a time but only once survives.  Both parents care for the baby.

FOOD:

Eagles are carnivores or meat eaters.  They hunt during the day for sloth, monkeys, opossums, large replies, rodents and other birds.   They catch their prey with their claws.

LIFESPAN:

It can live up to 25 years in captivity.

THREATS:

The Harpy Eagle is endangered because of hunting and because its’ habitat is being destroyed.

Back to Habitat Homepage