Secretary Bird
Sagittarius serpentarius
Africa's snake-stomping raptor — a 1.3-metre bird that hunts on foot across open grasslands
Habitat
Open grasslands, savanna, and shrubland across sub-Saharan Africa
Diet
Snakes (including venomous species), lizards, rodents, insects, bird eggs
Lifespan
10–15 years in the wild
Weight
3.5–4.5 kg
About the Secretary Bird
The secretary bird is one of Africa's most distinctive and extraordinary birds — a long-legged raptor that hunts on foot rather than from the air. Standing up to 1.3 metres tall with crane-like legs, a hooked beak, and a dramatic crest of black quill-like feathers (said to resemble the quill pens that 19th-century clerks tucked behind their ears), the secretary bird stalks through grasslands stamping on snakes, lizards, and rodents with devastating force. A single stomp delivers 5 times its body weight in force — enough to kill a venomous snake instantly.
Habitat & Diet
Habitat
Open grasslands, savanna, and shrubland across sub-Saharan Africa
Diet
Snakes (including venomous species), lizards, rodents, insects, bird eggs
Lifespan
10–15 years in the wild
Weight
3.5–4.5 kg
Best Viewing Locations
- Masai Mara
- Serengeti
- Kruger National Park
- Kgalagadi
Fascinating Facts About Secretary Bird
Secretary birds can walk up to 30 km per day while hunting
Their kick delivers over 195 Newtons of force — 5 times their body weight
They are one of only two raptors that hunt exclusively on foot (the other is the caracara)
The secretary bird appears on the coat of arms of both South Africa and Sudan
They build massive nests up to 2.5 metres wide on top of flat-crowned acacia trees
Safari Packages to See Secretary Bird
Multi-day, all-inclusive safari packages that include the best secretary bird viewing destinations.
East Africa Migration, Safari & Highlands — Kenya & Tanzania Combined
Nairobi, Masai Mara
From $9,490
Masai Mara, Amboseli & Nakuru — Kenya's Big Cat Kingdom Safari
Nairobi, Masai Mara
From $3,890
Masai Mara & Seychelles Paradise — Safari Meets Island Luxury
Masai Mara, Nairobi
From $8,700
Classic Kruger & Sabi Sands Fly-In Safari — Big Five Guaranteed
Johannesburg, Sabi Sands Game Reserve
From $3,490
Ready to See Secretary Bird in the Wild?
Our expert safari consultants will craft your perfect secretary bird encounter — from choosing the ideal reserve to selecting the best season and lodge.
Plan Your Secretary Bird Safari
Safari Experiences
Big Five game drives, walking safaris & more
Safari Lodges
Luxury accommodation in prime wildlife areas
Destinations
Kruger, Sabi Sands, Masai Mara & beyond
Best Time to Visit
Plan your trip around peak wildlife seasons
Safari Costs
Honest pricing guide for every budget
Conservation
How your safari protects African wildlife
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