Crested Honey-buzzard vs Crested Serpent-Eagle

In short

The Crested Honey-buzzard and Crested Serpent-Eagle can be distinguished by their head and tail features. The Honey-buzzard has a more slender head with a smaller bill and a longer tail, while the Serpent-Eagle has a larger, more rounded head with a prominent crest and a shorter tail. Both species inhabit forested areas, but their vocalizations differ significantly.

Identification tips

• Head shape and bill: Look for the slender head and smaller bill of the Honey-buzzard versus the rounded head and prominent crest of the Serpent-Eagle.
• Tail length: The Honey-buzzard has a longer tail compared to the shorter, banded tail of the Serpent-Eagle.
• Plumage patterns: Note the bold barring on the Serpent-Eagle's underparts and tail.
• Vocalizations: Listen for the loud calls of the Serpent-Eagle, especially during the breeding season.

Size

Both species are similar in size, but the Crested Serpent-Eagle appears bulkier due to its broader wings and shorter tail.

Plumage

The Crested Honey-buzzard has a more uniform plumage with subtle barring, while the Crested Serpent-Eagle features bold white and black barring on its underparts and a distinctive white band on its tail.

Behaviour

Crested Honey-buzzards are often seen soaring with flat wings, while Crested Serpent-Eagles are more likely to be perched conspicuously in trees.

Habitat

Both species prefer forested habitats, but the Crested Serpent-Eagle is more commonly found in dense forests and forest edges, whereas the Crested Honey-buzzard can also be seen in open woodlands.

Voice

The Crested Serpent-Eagle has a distinctive, loud, and high-pitched call, often described as a 'kluee' sound, whereas the Crested Honey-buzzard is generally silent or gives a soft, mewing call.