serpent eagle

bird

Also known as: Spilornis, snake eagle

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Last updated

July 13, 2026

Quick Summary

The term "serpent eagle" can refer to two types of birds of prey. One is any of several raptorial birds from the genus Spilornis that inhabit southern Asia and the East Indies and prey on snakes. These are also known as harrier eagles.1

Another group referred to as serpent eagles, or snake eagles, are species within the subfamily Circaetinae, which includes Spilornis. These birds are found in Europe, Asia, and Africa, are about 60 cm (24 inches) long, and have short, unfeathered legs. They nest in trees and hunt snakes. Other birds called serpent eagles, such as the African serpent eagle and the endangered Madagascar serpent eagle, are found in Africa.2

Eagles, in general, are large, powerful birds of prey with strong talons, known for hunting live prey rather than scavenging.2

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eagle
The serpent eagles, or snake eagles, Spilornis (six species, subfamily Circaetinae), eat mostly snakes, including large poisonous ones. They occur in Asia. Other birds called serpent eagles, notably the long-tailed members of the genera Dryotriorchis (e.g., African serpent eagle) and Eutriorchis (e.g., the endangered Madagascar serpent…
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The serpent eagles, or snake eagles, Spilornis (six species, subfamily Circaetinae), eat mostly snakes, including large poisonous ones. They occur in Asia. Other birds called serpent eagles, notably the long-tailed members of the genera Dryotriorchis (e.g., African serpent eagle) and Eutriorchis (e.g., the endangered Madagascar serpent…
Read More