Endangered Birds

Secretarybird

Sagittarius serpentarius

Secretarybird hunts snakes in open African savannas and grasslands.

Scientific name	Sagittarius serpentarius
Swahili name	Mwewe wa maandishi
Conservation status	Endangered
Class	Aves
Order	Ciconiiformes
Family	Sagittariidae
Size	Male: approximately 3.3-4.0 kg, body length about 1.3 m; Female: slightly lighter, about 3.0-3.5 kg

See this species in the app

How to identify

Distinctive long black crest on top of the head; tall body, long bare legs adapted for terrestrial walking; broad wings with a wingspan up to 2.1 meters in flight; bare red facial skin; plumage mainly a mix of gray and black

Habitat

Open sparse woodland savannas, grasslands, and shrub areas, preferring open ground environments with good visibility

Diet

Primarily carnivorous, preys on snakes, insects, small mammals, and reptiles, especially known for hunting venomous snakes

When it is active

Diurnal, active during the day, especially in the early morning and late afternoon

Where it lives

Widely distributed across sub-Saharan Africa, especially common in Kenya, Tanzania (including Masai Mara), and South Africa

How to spot it

Look in open grasslands or sparse woodland savannas, easier to observe in good light during morning or evening; pay attention to its distinctive gait and hunting behavior

Photography tips

Use a telephoto lens to capture walking and hunting moments; photograph crest and facial details in soft morning or evening light; try capturing wings fully extended in flight

Threats

Habitat destruction and degradation; pesticide use affecting the food chain; limited human hunting

Similar species

Similar to storks but clearly distinguished by long legs and unique crest; differentiated from other terrestrial raptors like eagles by body size and behavior

📖 how to spot the secretarybird on safari