Secretarybird
Secretarybird
Sagittariidae
The Snake-Stomping Raptor: The Secretarybird (Sagittarius serpentarius) is a bird like no other—a long-legged, crane-like raptor found in Africa’s open savannas. Despite its eagle-like head and sharp beak, it prefers to hunt on foot rather than in the air, making it one of the most unique birds of prey. Famous for its snake-hunting skills, the Secretarybird kills its prey with powerful stomps, delivering bone-crushing kicks that can take down even venomous cobras. It also hunts small mammals, insects, and birds, patrolling vast grasslands in search of a meal. With its distinctive black-and-white plumage, long eyelashes, and wispy head feathers, it resembles an old-fashioned secretary with quill pens tucked behind its ears—hence the name. Unlike most raptors, it nests high in trees, building large stick nests where both parents care for their chicks. Despite being an icon of African wildlife, habitat loss and persecution threaten its numbers. Conservationists are working to protect grassland ecosystems to ensure this elegant yet fierce hunter continues to stride across Africa’s plains.