Harpy eagle is a large bird of prey that lives in lowland tropical forests. Harpy eagles inhabit Central and South America from Mexico to northern Argentina. Harpies weigh more than 10 pounds (4.5 kilograms). They stand 3 feet (91 centimeters) tall. Their wingspread reaches 7 feet (2 meters). The harpy eagle’s head and neck are gray. Its chest is black. Its underparts are white. A long black crest covers the back of the head. A large black beak and massive yellow feet distinguish the bird.
This powerful eagle uses its strength to capture prey. It feeds mostly on animals that live in trees, including monkeys, sloths, and opossums. Harpy eagles build large stick nests in tall trees. Mating pairs only breed every other year. The female lays one or two eggs. Harpy eagles are named after the “flying monsters” in ancient Greek and Roman mythology (see Harpy [mythology]).
