Blyth's Hawk-Eagle: The Elegant Predator of Asia's Tropical Forests.

Blyth's Hawk-Eagle (Nisaetus alboniger) is one of the most beautiful birds of prey inhabiting the forests of Southeast Asia, including Sumatra. This bird is known for its majestic appearance, with dark feathers mixed with white on the lower body, and a striking crest on the head that emphasizes its charisma as a mighty raptor.

Blyth's Hawk-Eagle is found in tropical and subtropical forest areas from lowlands to mountains. Its dense habitat makes this bird quite difficult to observe, but I was lucky to be able to witness its beauty when this species perched on a high branch.

As a bird of prey, Blyth's Hawk-Eagle eats a variety of small animals, including other birds, small mammals, and reptiles. Its efficient hunting technique, supported by sharp eyesight and flight speed, makes it a top predator in its ecosystem. In addition, it is known as a solitary species that is rarely seen in pairs except during the mating season.

Although its population is still relatively stable, Blyth's Hawk-Eagle faces threats due to deforestation and habitat degradation. The loss of primary forests in Sumatra, for example, has the potential to affect the availability of nesting sites and food sources for this species.

For me as a birdwatcher, seeing Blyth's Hawk-Eagle is a rare and valuable experience. If you come to Sumatra, locations such as the forests of the Leuser ecosystem offer the best opportunities to observe this species. However, it requires patience, adequate equipment, and respect for the surrounding nature.

Blyth's Hawk-Eagle is a symbol of the beauty and power of the wild that we need to protect. Protecting their existence means maintaining the balance of the ecosystem and preserving the biodiversity heritage of Southeast Asia.