Harpy Eagle vs Ornate Hawk-Eagle

In short

The Harpy Eagle and Ornate Hawk-Eagle can be distinguished by size and plumage details. The Harpy Eagle is significantly larger and more robust, with a distinctive double crest and a pale gray head. In contrast, the Ornate Hawk-Eagle is smaller, with a long, often erect crest and rich rufous neck sides.

Identification tips

1. Size and bulk: Harpy Eagle is much larger. 2. Crest: Harpy has a double crest; Ornate has a long, often erect crest. 3. Head and neck coloration: Harpy has a pale gray head; Ornate has rufous neck sides. 4. Underparts: Harpy has white with black barring; Ornate has heavily barred underparts. 5. Tail: Ornate has a banded tail. 6. Habitat preference: Harpy in dense lowland forests; Ornate in varied forested habitats.

Size

The Harpy Eagle is much larger and bulkier than the Ornate Hawk-Eagle, with a wingspan that can exceed 2 meters, compared to the Ornate's smaller, more agile build.

Plumage

Harpy Eagles have a striking double crest, pale gray head, and predominantly white underparts with black barring. Ornate Hawk-Eagles have a long crest, rich rufous neck sides, heavily barred underparts, and a banded tail.

Behaviour

Both species are powerful raptors, but the Harpy Eagle is known for its ability to hunt large prey like monkeys and sloths, often perching silently in the canopy. The Ornate Hawk-Eagle is more agile and may be seen soaring more frequently.

Habitat

Both species inhabit tropical forests, but the Harpy Eagle prefers dense, lowland rainforests, while the Ornate Hawk-Eagle can also be found in more varied forested habitats, including montane areas.

Voice

The Harpy Eagle is generally silent, occasionally emitting a weak, high-pitched call. The Ornate Hawk-Eagle is more vocal, with a distinctive, high-pitched whistle.