Raptor Alert: A New Crested Eagle Nest!

The Crested Eagle is one of the world’s most impressive and sought-after raptors. Sharing many characteristics with the larger and more well-known Harpy Eagle, both species have a similar appearance and habitat preference, being almost exclusively found in mature lowland and foothill forests. However, Crested Eagles belong to an entirely different genus and exhibit two distinct colour morphs: a light morph with a dark grey back and whitish underside, and a rare dark morph with dark grey and white barring on the belly.

Despite the Crested Eagle’s massive size and relatively wide distribution, it is very rarely encountered. Unlike the well-documented nesting habits of the Harpy Eagle, which can now be observed at multiple sites, much less is known about the Crested Eagle. Indeed, sightings of this elusive bird are typically serendipitous. Recently, however, a new Crested Eagle nest was discovered in the Tambopata National Reserve, deep in the Peruvian Amazon.

Tambopata is one of the largest protected areas in Peru and harbours a rich diversity of life. Birds are plentiful and include the bizarre-looking Hoatzin, impressive Jabiru, reclusive Sungrebe, and vocal White-throated Toucan, while the famous Tambopata clay licks attract hundreds of beautifully coloured macaws and other parrots. The mammalian fauna is equally impressive, with notable primates including Toppin’s Titi and Peruvian Spider Monkey, alongside Giant Otter, Bicolour-spined Porcupine, and even Lowland Tapir.

This newly discovered Crested Eagle nest presents a rare and unique opportunity, offering an exceptional chance to observe one of the least understood raptors in its natural habitat, amidst the diverse ecosystem of the Tambopata National Reserve. Critically, this will only be a possibility for the next two years at most, while the adult attends to its chick.

If you’d like to take advantage of this unique opportunity, please don’t hesitate to get in touch to discuss, and we’d be delighted to help arrange your visit.

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