Found exclusively in Indonesia, this bird of prey has earned the status of a national symbol, representing the country’s rich natural heritage. Despite its grandeur, the Javan hawk-eagle faces numerous challenges in the wild, making its conservation a matter of great importance.

The Javan hawk-eagle is a striking bird with a distinctive appearance. Adult eagles boast a dark brown plumage with a contrasting white underbelly. One of their most notable features is the long crest of feathers on their heads, which they can raise or lower depending on their mood. This crest gives them a regal and somewhat intimidating look. Their sharp, piercing eyes are a deep yellow, perfectly adapted for spotting prey from great distances. They are carnivorous, preying on a variety of animals. Their diet primarily consists of small mammals, birds, reptiles, and occasionally large insects. They are known for their powerful hunting skills, using their sharp talons and beaks to catch and kill prey. The eagles typically hunt from a perch, swooping down with incredible speed and precision to capture their unsuspecting meal.

As its name suggests, the Javan hawk-eagle is native to the island of Java in Indonesia. Java is the most populated island in Indonesia, which makes the eagle’s habitat even more precious. These birds prefer dense, tropical forests and mountainous regions, often found at elevations between 300 and 2,500 meters (984 to 8,202 feet). However, the relentless deforestation and human encroachment have significantly reduced their natural habitat, pushing them to isolated pockets of forests, posing a grave threat to their survival.

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

Indonesia

600-900

Official estimate

EN

2016

Breeding: Java