The Crested Eagle, also known as the Crowned Eagle, is a large bird of prey that is native to the rainforests and woodlands of sub-Saharan Africa. It is known for its impressive hunting abilities and has been documented preying on animals as large as bushbuck, which can weigh up to 30 kg (66 lb).

The Crested Eagle’s Prey Size

According to a study of bones collected from Nature’s Valley in South Africa, 22.5% of the bones were from larger species, with an adult weight of 2 to 20 kg (4.4 to 44.1 lb). However, it is important to note that about 91% of the bones from the relatively large antelope species were from juvenile specimens.

In the rainforest community of Taï National Park in the Ivory Coast, the estimated average weight of prey for crowned eagles is 5.67 kg (12.5 lb).

The crowned eagle is perhaps the only living accipitrid to routinely attack prey weighing in excess of 9 kg (20 lb). According to some authorities, typical prey sizes for crowned eagles may be considered to range to at least 20 kg (44 lb).

Crested Eagle’s Body Weight

Image source: Long-crested eagle By Charles J. Sharp

In terms of weight, a male crowned eagle typically weighs between 2.55-4.12 kg (5.6-9.1 lb) and a female is around 10-15% larger, at a weight of 2.55-4.12 kg (5.6-9.1 lb). An average body mass of 3.64 kg (8.0 lb) has been given for the crowned eagle.

Comparison with the Golden Eagle

In comparison, the Golden Eagle, which is the largest bird of prey in North America, has a long, broad wingspan of up to 7 feet and weighs between 6-15 pounds. Golden eagles can carry prey up to 8 pounds and dive at 200 miles per hour.

Verified Accounts of Crested Eagle Carrying Prey

However, verified accounts of the crowned eagle carrying more than its own body weight in flight are sparse. This suggests that while the Crested Eagle is a powerful and capable bird of prey, it may not be able to consistently carry prey that exceeds its own body weight.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Crested Eagle is a formidable hunter that is known to prey on animals much larger than itself. However, the available evidence suggests that it may not be able to consistently carry prey that exceeds its own body weight in flight. The Golden Eagle, on the other hand, is capable of carrying prey up to 8 pounds, which is a significant difference in carrying capacity compared to the Crested Eagle.

Reference:
– Wikipedia – Crowned eagle
– San Diego Zoo – Crowned Eagle
– San Francisco Zoo – Golden Eagle
– YouTube – Crested Eagle Hunting
– Stewards of the Upper Rogue River – Bald Eagle FAQ