Crowned Eagle

The Crowned Eagle, also known as the African Crowned Eagle or the Crowned Hawk-eagle (Stephanoaetus coronatus) is a very large, powerful, crested bird of prey found in sub-Saharan Africa; in Southern Africa it is restricted to suitable habitat in the eastern areas. It is the only extant member of the genus Stephanoaetus. A second species, the Malagasy Crowned Eagle (Stephanoaetus mahery) became extinct after humans settled on Madagascar.

It mainly inhabits dense forests. Its staple diet consists of monkeys (particularly those of the genus Chlorocebus) and other medium-sized mammals, such as the Cape Hyrax and small antelopes. To a far lesser extent, birds and large lizards are also taken. However, at least 90% of the diet is mammalian.

While on average smaller in all measurements but length than the Martial Eagle, the Crowned Eagle is often considered Africa's most powerful and ferocious eagle in terms of the weight and nature of prey taken. It often preys on mammals such as duikers, weighing up to 30 kg (66 lb). Due to their similarities, the Crowned Eagle is often considered Africa's analogue of the Harpy Eagle.