Species profile
About this species
The Crested Serpent Eagle is a medium-sized bird of prey found across tropical Asia, known for its distinctive black & white crest that fans out when alarmed. It specialises in hunting snakes & lizards, using its sharp talons & keen eyesight to locate prey from a perch or while soaring. Its bold facial disc & bright yellow cere make it one of the more striking raptors in its range.
Crested Serpent Eagles inhabit dense tropical & subtropical forests, forest edges, & well-wooded areas near rivers & streams across South & Southeast Asia, from the Indian subcontinent through to Indonesia & the Philippines.
Where to photograph
Where our trips feature this species
You can photograph Crested Serpent Eagle with us in India.
These departures are part of our Asia programme.
In the field, Pui Hang Miles helps guests make the most of these encounters.
Field notes
Photography notes
Early morning between 7am & 10am is ideal, as the eagle is most active during this period & light is soft & directional. The dry season - typically November to April across much of its range - offers clearer skies & reduced foliage, improving visibility in forested habitats.
Position yourself near forest clearings or river edges where the eagle frequently perches on exposed branches, allowing clear lines of sight for your lens. Use a fast shutter speed of at least 1/1000s to freeze any sudden head movements or crest displays, particularly when the bird is alert. Patience is essential - locate a favoured perch & wait quietly at a respectful distance to capture natural behaviour without flushing the bird.
Available holidays
Trips featuring Crested Serpent Eagle
The holidays below are pulled from the same species relationship, so the guide stays tied to live departures rather than becoming a static article.