Where does the Changeable Hawk-Eagle live?
Nisaetus cirrhatus
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Open the appThe Changeable Hawk-Eagle lives in specific habitats and regions. Knowing where, and when, to look improves your chances of a successful sighting.
Biomes
Tropical and subtropical forests, woodlands, plantations, open country with scattered trees, cultivated areas, and even suburban parks.
Geographic range
Widely distributed across tropical Asia, from India and Sri Lanka eastward through Southeast Asia, including the Philippines, Indonesia (Sumatra, Java, Borneo, Sulawesi), and parts of southern China.
Preferred environments
Prefers areas with a mix of tall trees for nesting and perching, and open areas for hunting. Often found near water bodies.
Elevation range
Primarily found in lowlands and foothills, typically up to 1,500 meters (5,000 feet), but occasionally recorded higher.
Where to look
Forest Edges
Often seen perched on tall trees at the edges of forests, woodlands, and plantations, overlooking open areas.
Cultivated Areas
Can be found in agricultural landscapes with scattered large trees, where it hunts for rodents and birds.
Suburban Parks and Gardens
In some parts of its range, it has adapted to human-modified landscapes and can be seen in large parks or gardens with mature trees.
Near Water Bodies
Frequently found near rivers, lakes, or reservoirs, as these areas often attract prey.
Field tips
- Scan Tall Perches. Look for it perched conspicuously on the highest branches of tall trees, dead snags, or electricity pylons, from where it surveys its hunting grounds.
- Watch the Skies. Spend time scanning the sky, especially during mid-morning to early afternoon, as they often soar on thermals, sometimes at considerable heights.
- Listen for Calls. Its loud and distinctive calls are often the first indication of its presence, especially during the breeding season. Learn to recognize its 'ki-ki-ki-keee' call.
- Observe Prey Activity. Areas with high concentrations of potential prey (e.g., junglefowl, pigeons, squirrels) are good places to look.
Migration
Mostly resident throughout its range, with no significant migratory movements. Local dispersal of juveniles may occur.
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