Crested eagles, also known as Changeable Hawk-eagles, are known to prey on chickens and other medium-sized birds. These powerful birds of prey are skilled hunters that feed on a variety of animals, including small mammals, reptiles, and even monkeys in some cases.
What Do Crested Eagles Eat?
Crested eagles are opportunistic predators that have a diverse diet. Their main prey includes:
- Chickens and other medium-sized birds
- Small mammals like squirrels, treeshrews, rats, and hares
- Reptiles such as snakes and lizards
- Monkeys (on rare occasions)
These eagles are known to hunt by quietly perching and waiting for unsuspecting prey to come within their reach. When they spot a suitable target, they make a quick, short dive to capture their prey with their strong feet and sharp talons.
How Do Crested Eagles Hunt Chickens?
Image source: Long-crested eagle By Charles J. Sharp
Crested eagles are skilled hunters that employ a variety of tactics to catch their prey, including chickens. Here’s how they typically hunt chickens:
-
Stealth Approach: Crested eagles are known for their stealthy movements. They often perch quietly in trees or on fences, waiting for an opportunity to strike.
-
Surprise Attack: When a chicken comes within their reach, the eagle will make a quick, short dive to surprise and capture the bird with their powerful talons.
-
Aerial Pursuit: In some cases, crested eagles may chase and pursue chickens in the air, using their agility and speed to catch their prey.
-
Opportunistic Feeding: These eagles are also known to scavenge and feed on chickens that have been killed by other predators or accidents.
Threats to Crested Eagles
Despite their status as a “Least Concern” species, crested eagle populations are facing various threats that could lead to population declines. Some of the main threats to these birds include:
-
Habitat Loss and Fragmentation: Deforestation and the conversion of natural habitats into agricultural or urban areas can significantly impact crested eagle populations.
-
Human Persecution: In some regions, crested eagles may be persecuted by humans, either due to perceived threats to livestock or for other reasons.
-
Hunting and Poaching: In some areas, crested eagles may be hunted or poached for their feathers or other body parts, which can be used in traditional medicine or for decorative purposes.
Protecting Chickens from Crested Eagles
To protect chickens from crested eagles and other birds of prey, it’s important to take the following measures:
-
Provide Secure Shelter: Ensure that your chicken coop is well-built and secure, with sturdy walls, a roof, and a secure door to prevent birds of prey from accessing the chickens.
-
Restrict Free-Ranging: Avoid allowing chickens to free-range in areas with tall trees or other perches that raptors could use to hunt from. Keep them in a fenced-in run or enclosure.
-
Use Deterrents: Employ various deterrents, such as scarecrows, reflective tape, or noise makers, to discourage birds of prey from approaching the chicken area.
-
Monitor and Respond Quickly: Regularly check on your chickens and be prepared to take immediate action if you notice any signs of a predator, such as feathers or other evidence of an attack.
By implementing these measures, you can help protect your chickens from the threat of crested eagles and other birds of prey.
Conclusion
Crested eagles, also known as Changeable Hawk-eagles, are known to prey on chickens and other medium-sized birds as part of their diverse diet. These skilled hunters employ a variety of hunting tactics, including stealth, surprise attacks, and aerial pursuit, to capture their prey. While crested eagles are not the only birds of prey that pose a threat to poultry, understanding their hunting behavior and taking appropriate measures to protect chickens can help mitigate the risk of predation.
