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The black-and-chestnut eagle is a large, rare raptor found in high-altitude cloud forests on the east slope of the Andes. It is much sought-after by birders and many experts have not seen this species. I was lucky enough to encounter this very accommodating individual along the Manu Road in Peru. It is a subadult, molting from the pale juvenile plumage into the striking adult plumage (black above; rich chestnut below). It was a very striking bird despite the intermediate plumage, with a prominent crest and huge feet. Close relatives, like the much more common and considerably smaller black hawk-eagle are found at lower altitudes in Amazonia. |
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