The Secretarybird: Africa’s Majestic Serpent-Hunter and Walking Raptor

Scientifically named Sagittarius serpentarius, this iconic raptor of sub-Saharan Africa belongs to the family Sagittariidae, standing 1.2–1.5 meters tall with a 2.1-meter wingspan. Renowned for its long legs and terrestrial lifestyle, it earns the nickname "African marching eagle," covering 20–30 kilometers daily on foot. Its name stems from the 20 black crest feathers on its head, resembling the quill pens once tucked behind secretaries’ ears—feathers that erect into a dramatic fan when the bird is agitated, framed by vivid orange-red bare skin around the eyes.