Which bird of prey has the scientific name Sagittarius serpentarius?
Answer
Secretarybird
Answer
Secretarybird
The secretarybird has the scientific name Sagittarius serpentarius.
The secretarybird is a tall, long-legged raptor found across much of sub-Saharan Africa. Its unusual proportions make it look partly like a crane, but its hooked bill, talons, and hunting behavior identify it as a bird of prey. It spends much of its time walking through grasslands rather than soaring continuously like an eagle.
Secretarybirds hunt insects, lizards, snakes, and small mammals. They may stamp on prey with their powerful legs, using rapid, forceful kicks to subdue dangerous animals. Their long crest feathers gave rise to the common name, although the exact historical origin of “secretarybird” has been debated.
The genus name Sagittarius means “archer” in Latin, while serpentarius relates to snakes. Grassland conversion, agricultural expansion, and disturbance have contributed to declines in parts of its range. The species is now treated as the only living member of its family, Sagittariidae.
Source: Wikipedia · fact-checked Sept. 2026