| IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature): | Least Concern
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| Approximate size(adult): | Length about 60–66 cm; wingspan 120–140 cm; weight ~1–1.5 kg. A medium-large raptor with brown upperparts, barred underparts, and a prominent crest on the head. Eyes are bright yellow, and legs are feathered down to the tarsi.
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| Resident/ Migrate from: | Resident species across South and Southeast Asia, including India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and parts of Indonesia. Non-migratory.
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| Migrate to: | Non-migratory; remains within its forested range year-round.
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| Breeding season: | February to May in India, coinciding with pre-monsoon months. Courtship includes aerial displays, calling, and mutual feeding.
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| Breed in: | Builds a large stick nest in the canopy of tall trees. Usually lays 1–2 eggs, incubated by both parents. Chicks fledge after several weeks under parental care.
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| Habitat: | Prefers dense forests, woodland edges, and hilly forested regions. Can also be found near plantations and forest patches in open landscapes. Often perches on high vantage points to survey for prey.
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| Diet: | Carnivorous — feeds on birds, small mammals, reptiles, and occasionally large insects. Hunts by perch-and-pounce or short aerial pursuits. Plays a role in controlling populations of medium-sized prey species.
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