- Harpia harpyja
Identification
Harpy Eagle Harpia harpyja RANGE Central and South America: very rare in Mexico reported from Veracruz, Chiapas and Campeche, also from Belize and Guatemala south to Panama and in South America from Colombia, Venezuela and the Guianas south to south-east Brazil and north-east Argentina. Resident. Rare over most of range, very rare in Mexico and Central America.
HABITAT Primary rainforest, at 100 to 1,800m. Occasionally soars over forest and sometimes perches on the highest treetops but spends much time in dense canopy foliage.
Photographed: Iwokrama rainforest, Guyana.
Harpy Eagle
Weighing up to 10 pounds(4.5kg),the Harpy Eagle is heavy,but not the heaviest of eagles,and its wing-span too is exceeded by many others.What does mark it out from all other eagles,however is the immense size of its feet and talons,and the great girth of its legs. On this basis it is certainly the most powerful eagle in the world.Dwelling in the rainforests of Central and South America, the Harpy`s prey includes big animals such as sloths and howler monkeys. Like many eagles,Harpies have regular nest sites,used year after year.The nests are situated at a great height in the crowns of silk cotton trees,about 165 feet (50m) above the ground. Made of sticks up to 1.6 inches (4cm) thick,the nest is 5 feet (1.5m) across and lined with green leaves and animal hair.Two eggs may be laid,but it is normal for only one young eagle to be reared.
Originally posted by Spar
just amazing!
I saw one 5 months ago, at International Park La Amistad Costa Rica-Panama, it was just amazing!!! A baby harpy eagle with no rings on the neck, just a huge white face that appeared to be an owl, till he turned. Just beautiful! And it's so exciting to know that they are starting to nest in Costa Rica again!!!
Originally posted by Natalia
