How to identify the Philippine Hawk-Eagle

To correctly identify the Philippine Hawk-Eagle (Nisaetus philippensis), check each of these features. Birds can be tricky: habit, habitat, and call often confirm a sighting that a single photo cannot.

Size at a glance

Length

55-70 cm (21.5-27.5 in)

Wingspan

110-125 cm (43-49 in)

Weight

1.1-1.6 kg (2.4-3.5 lbs)

Physical features to check

1. 1

   Plumage

   Overall feather coloration and pattern.

   Adults have dark brown upperparts, a dark brown crest, and pale underparts with heavy rufous-brown streaking on the breast and belly. The underwing coverts are rufous, contrasting with pale flight feathers that have dark barring. The tail is dark with several broad dark bands. The facial disc is often rufous-brown.

2. 2

   Beak shape

   Shape and color of the bill: a key field mark.

   Robust, hooked beak, typical of raptors, dark grey to black with a pale cere.

3. 3

   Eye color

   Iris color and any distinctive eye markings.

   Yellow to orange-yellow in adults, paler in immatures.

4. 4

   Leg color

   Leg and foot color.

   Yellow

5. 5

   Distinguishing features

   Standout features that separate this species.

   Prominent dark crest, heavily streaked rufous underparts, rufous underwing coverts, and banded tail. The deep, penetrating yellow eyes are also distinctive.

6. 6

   Juvenile appearance

   How young birds differ from adults.

   Juveniles are paler overall, with a whiter head and underparts, less streaking on the body, and a shorter, less prominent crest. The flight feathers are pale with dark barring, and the tail is also barred. Eyes are generally paler yellow.

7. 7

   Seasonal changes

   Plumage variation between breeding and non-breeding seasons.

   No significant seasonal plumage changes.

8. 8

   Sexual dimorphism

   How males and females differ.

   Females are generally larger and heavier than males, but plumage is similar.

Key field marks

• Crest. Look for the prominent dark brown crest, often held erect, giving the head a distinctive shape.
• Underparts. Observe the pale underparts with heavy, rich rufous-brown streaking on the breast and belly. This is a key field mark for adults.
• Underwing. Note the rufous underwing coverts which strongly contrast with the paler, barred flight feathers during flight.
• Eyes. Adults have striking bright yellow to orange-yellow eyes, which stand out against the relatively dark head.
• Call. Listen for its characteristic high-pitched, whistled 'pi-wit... pi-wit...' calls, especially when soaring or near nesting sites.

Explore the Philippine Hawk-Eagle