Changeable Hawk Eagle ( Adult Dark & Pale Morphs ) Spizaetus cirrhatus 61 - 75 cm

I had a most interesting and totally unexpected encounter with a family of CHEs comprising of the Male, Female and a Juvenile. The Eagles are still nesting the new arrival and was obviously very protective of the single bird. In my observation over a 3 hour period I noted many characteristics of these wonderful birds-of-prey. I hope to document all the findings in a proper record which would be shared upon their eventual publication.

For this blog I will share the photos captured during the encounter.

                The pair of adults - Male (dark morph, bottom) and Female (pale morph, top)

                              Close-up of the Male

                  The  Male keeping watch of the Juvenile from a tree perch opposite the nest.

 
                        Close-up shots of the Female 

                              The Juvenile in the nest

                               And recorded here doing a big stretchhhh.....

The Changeable Hawk Eagle (Spizaetus cirrhatus) 61 - 75 cm

My encounter with this majestic bird of prey was by default by accident. I was driving downhill heading home after a birding trip when as always I would keep a look out for possible appearance of Raptors in this hilly terrain.  I must be about 300 meters from the exit when from the corner of my eyes on the right hand side I caught a glimpse of an imposing bird perched on top of a dead tree trunk! It was almost 6 pm. The setting sun was still high up in the horizon to provide the bright natural lighting which would make any photographer happy. 

I seized the golden opportunity and took as many shots as I could. This friendly bird posed many angles which gave the photos variety. Finally it decided to leave it's perch. It took-off and glided silently into the forest far beyond. I went back to my car totally happy with myself for picking up the 'bonus encounter'. With a broad smile and feeling good I started the car and drove away, reminiscing.

Here are 3 photos for sharing.

 Have a nice day!