Harpy Eagle
Harpia harpyja
Visual Identification
Appearance
The Harpy Eagle is a massive raptor with a distinctive appearance. Its body is covered in slate-gray feathers, contrasting with a white underside. The head features a prominent double crest of feathers that can be raised when alert or excited.
Females are significantly larger than males, sometimes weighing twice as much. Both sexes have powerful yellow legs and large, curved black talons. Juveniles have lighter gray plumage and a white-colored crest.
Size
Length
89cm to 105cm
Wingspan
176cm to 224cm
Weight
4kg to 9kg
Colours
Males and females have similar plumage
Primary Colour
Grey White
Secondary Colour
Black
Beak Colour
Black
Leg Colour
Yellow
Habitat and Distribution
Habitats
Woodland
Garden
Wetland
Coastal
Urban
Farmland
Grassland
Desert
Tundra
Rainforest
Mountain
Savanna
Distribution
Harpy Eagles inhabit lowland tropical rainforests from southern Mexico to northern Argentina, including the Amazon Basin. They require vast areas of uninterrupted forest with tall emergent trees for nesting and hunting.
They are a key species in Central and South American ecosystems. Their range has contracted significantly due to deforestation, particularly in Central America.
Elevation Range
Up to 1,000 meters
Climate zones
Tropical
Distribution Map
This map gives you a rough idea of where you might spot a Harpy Eagle. The coloured areas show countries where these birds have been seen.
A few things to keep in mind:
- Birds might not be everywhere in the coloured areas, for example, they may be present around the coast of that country
- Where birds live can change with seasons and available food
- This map is quite simple - it doesn't show exact locations
We're working on making our maps even better! Soon, we hope to show you:
- More detailed maps for bigger countries, including state and region
- How birds move around during different seasons