Why are they called Secretary Birds?
They are called Secretary Birds because their crest of long, quill-like feathers behind their head resembles the old-fashioned pens that secretaries used to tuck behind their ears.
How do they hunt?
They hunt by walking and stomping on their prey with their powerful legs to stun or kill it. They often kick with great force and precision, especially against snakes.
What do they eat?
They primarily eat snakes, but also consume insects, small mammals like rodents and hares, lizards, birds, and eggs. They are opportunistic carnivores.
Where do they live?
They live in the open grasslands and savannas of sub-Saharan Africa. Their habitat ranges from Senegal to Somalia and south to South Africa.
Can they fly?
Yes, they can fly, but they prefer to walk. They often take to the air for soaring, covering long distances, or escaping danger, but spend most of their time on the ground.
What is their most distinctive feature?
Their most distinctive features are their extremely long, crane-like legs, which are nearly twice the length of their body, and their prominent crest of black feathers on the back of their head.
How do they protect their young?
They protect their young by building large, flat nests high in acacia or thorny trees, making it difficult for ground predators to reach the chicks. Both parents care for the young.
Why are their legs so long?
Their legs are so long to help them walk through tall grass in their savanna habitat and to deliver powerful, precise kicks to stun and kill prey, particularly venomous snakes.
Can they be dangerous to humans?
No, they are not generally dangerous to humans. Secretary Birds are typically shy and will avoid human contact. They are not known to attack people.
What is their conservation status?
Their conservation status is 'Endangered' according to the IUCN Red List. Their populations are declining due to habitat loss, degradation, and disturbance across their range.
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