Harpy eagle

Harpia harpyja

The harpy eagle (Harpia harpyja) is a large neotropical species of eagle.

Family: Accipitridae Order: Accipitriformes Conservation: Near Threatened
Harpy eagle

About the Harpy eagle

The harpy eagle (Harpia harpyja) is a large neotropical species of eagle. It is also called the American harpy eagle to distinguish it from the Papuan eagle, which is sometimes known as the New Guinea harpy eagle or Papuan harpy eagle. It is the largest bird of prey throughout its range, and among the largest extant species of eagles in the world. It usually inhabits tropical lowland rainforests in the upper (emergent) canopy layer. Destruction of its natural habitat has caused it to vanish from many parts of its former range, and it is nearly extirpated from much of Central America. It is the only member of the genus Harpia, which, together with Harpyopsis, Macheiramphus and Morphnus, forms the subfamily Harpiinae.

Fun Facts About Harpy eagle

  • It usually inhabits tropical lowland rainforests in the upper (emergent) canopy layer.
  • It is the only member of the genus Harpia, which, together with Harpyopsis, Macheiramphus and Morphnus, forms the subfamily Harpiinae.
  • It is the largest bird of prey throughout its range, and among the largest extant species of eagles in the world.
  • Destruction of its natural habitat has caused it to vanish from many parts of its former range, and it is nearly extirpated from much of Central America.

Conservation Status

The Harpy eagle is classified as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List. This species faces threats that could impact its population if conservation measures are not maintained.

View on IUCN Red List →

Taxonomy & Classification

OrderAccipitriformes
FamilyAccipitridae
GenusHarpia
SpeciesHarpia harpyja

Range & Habitat

Range map of Harpy eagle

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Related Species

Other species in the Accipitridae family: