The Changeable Hawk-Eagle (Nisaetus cirrhatus) is a bird of prey that belongs to the Accipitridae family. These birds are found across South and Southeast Asia and are known for their hunting prowess. They are skilled hunters and are known to prey on a variety of animals, including birds, mammals, reptiles, and even insects.
What Do Changeable Hawk-Eagles Eat?
Changeable Hawk-Eagles are opportunistic hunters and feed on a variety of prey. Their diet varies depending on the availability of food in their habitat. In general, their diet includes small to medium-sized mammals, birds, reptiles, and insects.
Small to Medium-Sized Mammals: Changeable Hawk-Eagles feed on a variety of small to medium-sized mammals such as squirrels, rodents, and hares. They are also known to hunt larger mammals such as monkeys and civets.
Birds: Birds are a significant part of the Changeable Hawk-Eagle’s diet. They primarily feed on other birds such as pigeons, doves, and parakeets.
Reptiles: Changeable Hawk-Eagles are known to feed on reptiles such as snakes and lizards. They hunt these creatures in a similar way to birds, swooping down from above to catch them.
Insects: Although insects are not a significant part of the Changeable Hawk-Eagle’s diet, they are known to eat large insects such as grasshoppers and locusts when other food sources are scarce.
How Do Changeable Hawk-Eagles Hunt?
Changeable Hawk-Eagles are powerful and skilled hunters. They use their sharp talons and beaks to catch and kill their prey. They hunt in a variety of ways depending on their prey. They are known to hunt from a perch or while flying.
Perch Hunting: When hunting from a perch, Changeable Hawk-Eagles scan the surrounding area for potential prey. Once they spot a target, they will swoop down to catch it. They may also use their talons to grab prey while perched.
Flying Hunting: When hunting while flying, Changeable Hawk-Eagles soar high in the sky, scanning the ground for prey. They use their keen eyesight to spot potential targets and then dive down at great speed to catch them. They use their powerful talons to catch and kill their prey.
In conclusion, the Changeable Hawk-Eagle is a skilled hunter that feeds on a variety of prey, including small to medium-sized mammals, birds, reptiles, and insects. They are opportunistic hunters and will feed on whatever is available in their habitat. They use their sharp talons and beaks to catch and kill their prey and are known to hunt from a perch or while flying.