This beautiful bird was found in a kindergarten in Kowloon Bay and like most "stray" animals was passed to the Rescue Centre of Kadoorie Farm. It was though to have suffered short term concussion. Still very young, probably in its first year, it did not take well to captivity, and after a short stay was released successfully back into the wild. The Crested Serpent Eagle is a reptile-eating specialist, as it forages for snakes and lizards over forests and rocky hillsides. The breeding season begins in late winter and eggs are laid in early summer. Listen for them: The call is a distinctive "Kluee-wip-wip" with the first note being high and rising, and they can often be heard in the late mornings on their perches where they spend a lot of time. Also look for them as they rise on thermals later in the mornings.
In Hong Kong, it is illegal to keep wild birds in captivity, and the Kadoorie staff ask that you do not attempt to handle or raise birds by yourself, as inappropriate care may cause unnecessary suffering. NB: If you encounter any injured or sick wild animals, please contact Kadoorie Farm directly email (fauna@kfbg.org) or phone (Hotline: 2483 7200) for advice.
