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 a member of the order Falconiformes, which also includes many other diurnal raptors such as kites, buzzards, vultures, and harriers, it is so distinctive that it was given its own family, Sagittariidae.
It enjoys a certain fame in Africa, specifically Sudan and South Africa, serving as a prominent emblem on both nations' coats of arms.
Its common name is popularly thought to derive from the crest of long quill-like feathers, lending the bird the appearance of a secretary with quill pens tucked behind his or her ear, as was once the practice. A more recent hypothesis is that "secretary" is borrowed from a French corruption of the Arabic saqr-et-tair or "hunter-bird.
The Secretary Bird is instantly recognizable as having an eagle-like body on crane-like legs which increases the bird’s height to around 1.3 m (4 ft) tall. This 140 cm (4.5 ft) long bird has an eagle-like head with a hooked bill, but has rounded wings. Body weight averages at about 3.3 kg (7.3 lbs) and the wingspan is over 2 m (6.6 ft).
I know this might be a bit too much about me, but you know, I thought you didnt see my front side, so now you have seen it all:)) *flash* *flash* Have a great weekend, be well!!
Hahahaha...lovely angle what you have choosen Jen:)))And then those eye lashes...so amazing!Great details and a perfect macro shot!But he has also a sharp beak,not to go to close...take care:))) I wish you a happy weekend,the weather is not so great but enjoy it!! Hugs, Nicole
Beautiful bird, great shot with superb details and colors. It's always nice to read such info and learn something new. I have uploaded a picture of such a bird but i didnt know what it was to be honest. Maybe you can tell me! :)
Thank you so much dear Peet, its so wonderful to see these huge birds around there, I really miss Africa!! Wishing you a lovely weekend, is it still that cold and snow? Hugs Jenxx
Ohhh...come on, men like make-up isnt it... now you making me really sad...lolll Well at least now you can read why they are called secretary bird, hope this will answer your questions dear rif:) Be well and enjoy your weekend, cant believe its already Friday!! Big kiss and hugs, jen
I just thought, why not show the rest of me, although the first is Julie's fav:) I am very happy you like it my sweety, hoping you had a wonderful day, fixing cars and hunting lizzards and calling for jobs:)))) Ecen me am jealous about the lashes, I think its a he, but not sure, have to find out all details! Thanks so much for being your fav...lollll Hugs and have a nice weekend!! Jenxx
Hahaha You are so funny sweetie. They have got better and better as you have gone along. This is brilliant. Love the eye lashes. Love the detail. Love the about. 10/10 Princess. Big hugs. ekg xxx:) :) :) :) (favourite)
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