Sagittariidae

The Secretary Bird (Sagittarius serpentarius) is a large, mostly terrestrial bird of prey. Endemic to Africa, it is usually found in the open grasslands and savannah of the sub-Sahara. Although member of the Accipitriformes, which also includes many other diurnal raptors, such as kites, buzzards, vultures, and harriers, it is given its own family.

Additional information

Secratary Birds associate in monogamous pairs. During courtship, they exhibit a nuptial display by soaring high with undulating flight patterns and calling with guttural croaking. Males and females can also perform a grounded display by chasing each other with their wings up and back, much like the way they chase prey. They usually mate on the ground, although some do so in Acacia trees.

Taxonomy

There is only one species in this family: Secretary Bird (Sagittarius serpentarius).