American Bird Conservancy (ABC) and Rainforest Expeditions invite nature enthusiasts worldwide to a virtual front-row seat showcasing the daily activities of one of the rarest and most secretive raptors in the world, the Crested Eagle. Nestled in the heart of the Peruvian Amazon rainforest near Tambopata National Reserve, a Crested Eagle family with a chick is visible in its natural habitat on livestream for the very first time.

“When our partners at Rainforest Expeditions told us about the Crested Eagle nest on their property in Peru, we couldn't resist the opportunity to share the good news and lives of these mysterious birds with everyone,” said Daniel Lebbin, ABC's Vice President of Threatened Species. “ABC has been working with local partners to establish a 656-acre reserve for this species in Alto Sinú, Colombia, but much is still unknown about their behavior and activity. We're excited to offer viewers a unique glimpse into nature, while also learning more about this species.”

In May 2024, Rainforest Expeditions' birding guide Fernando Ccoa noticed unusual bird activity during a conservation monitoring trip with local field researchers in a remote part of Tambopata National Reserve. Upon closer inspection, he was thrilled to find the active nest of a rare Crested Eagle, only 30 minutes away from the Refugio Amazonas Lodge where he works.

“When I discovered the nest, the chick was not yet visible, leaving us unsure if there was an egg and if it had just been laid,” said Ccoa. “These birds are incredibly beautiful, and now that they have found a safe haven in our surroundings, it is our duty to protect them.” 

Given the fragility of the species, every precaution was taken to avoid disturbing the active parents and newly hatched chick. After outlining the requirements for a safe observation, Ccoa and local field researchers Aracely Meza and Gabriel Serrano established a strict protocol to ensure the safety and well-being of the birds. To allow future visitors to enjoy the experience without disturbing the eagles, a viewing blind was installed at a safe distance from the nest. Later, a nest cam was carefully installed and streamed live within Refugio Amazonas Lodge, offering lodge visitors an extraordinary up-close wildlife experience. Now, anyone can observe these magnificent rainforest birds on livestream anytime.

The Crested Eagle, also known as the monkey-eating eagle, is one of the most impressive raptors in the world. Known for its powerful build and distinctive crest, the Crested Eagle's diet consists of tree-dwelling mammals including smaller monkey species as its nickname suggests, along with opossums and Kinkajous. It also feeds on larger birds such as guans and curassows, as well as snakes and other reptiles. A stealthy hunter, this eagle often perches quietly for long periods before surprising its prey with a quick strike.

Solitary in nature, the Crested Eagle only pairs up during its breeding season. A mated pair builds a bulky stick nest in a tree crotch high in the forest canopy, where the female lays two eggs. She provides the incubation while her mate supplies food. Often, only one chick survives, and it fledges three to four months after hatching. Even after fledging, the chick stays nearby, as it's still dependent on its parents for food. It remains dependent for up to a year-and-a-half, eventually attaining independence. Due to this slow maturation rate, Crested Eagles nest only once every two to three years.

The Crested Eagle has an extensive geographical range but sparse distribution from southern Mexico south into Colombia, east to French Guiana, and south to central Bolivia and southern Brazil. It requires large areas of lowland tropical and subtropical forests with big, healthy trees and often overlaps in range with the less scarce Harpy Eagle, which is somewhat similar in appearance. Although the Crested Eagle's total population number is unknown, it is believed to be declining due to deforestation and habitat loss. The presence of a Crested Eagle is often a strong indicator of a healthy and thriving ecosystem.

“The Peruvian Amazon is renowned for its incredible biodiversity and stunning natural beauty. When I arrived in Tambopata, I had a dream to save this amazing region through scientific research and ecotourism,” said Eduardo Nycander, founder of Rainforest Expeditions. “Refugio Amazonas Lodge embodies that dream, promoting ecotourism and conservation efforts at every turn. By participating in this unique birdwatching activity, you are not only immersing yourself in an extraordinary wildlife experience but also becoming a crucial part of our mission. Your involvement supports vital conservation efforts that are essential for the recovery and preservation of the Amazon rainforest and the countless species that call it home.”

Visitors come from around the world to watch birds and enjoy nature at reserves managed by Rainforest Expeditions and other ABC partners. ABC supports reserves with ecolodges in some of the most biodiverse places in the Americas, with an emphasis on protecting habitat for endangered species such as the Indigo (Lear's) Macaw in Brazil, the El Oro Parakeet in Ecuador, and the Blue-throated Macaw in Bolivia. Visitor fees help to ensure the sustainability of these protected areas. For the past 30 years, together with partners ABC has helped protect over 1.1 million acres of land in more than 100 reserves, spread across 15 countries.

Join American Bird Conservancy on Tuesday, August 27 at 4:00 PM ET for a free webinar to hear more about the nest cam as well as conservation efforts for the species, including ABC's work with local partners throughout the region to conserve the Crested Eagle and other vulnerable birds that share its habitat.

You'll get an insider's look at the Crested Eagle family in Peru, made possible thanks to ABC's partnership with Rainforest Expeditions. You'll also learn about a new reserve in Colombia that is protecting that country's first known Crested Eagle hatchling, established by Sociedad Ornitológica de Córdoba with support from the direct investment funds of the Conserva Aves initiative and other generous ABC donors. RSVP now »

If you can't make the webinar live, RSVP and we'll send you a recording to enjoy when the time is right for you!

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American Bird Conservancy (ABC) takes bold action to conserve wild birds and their habitats throughout the Americas. Inspired by the wonder of birds, we achieve lasting results for the bird species most in need while also benefiting human communities, biodiversity, and the planet's fragile climate. Our every action is underpinned by science, strengthened by partnerships, and rooted in the belief that diverse perspectives yield stronger results. Founded as a nonprofit organization in 1994, ABC remains committed to safeguarding birds for generations to come. Join us! Together, we can do more to ensure birds thrive.

Rainforest Expeditions, based in Tambopata, is a leading ecotourism company dedicated to conserving the Amazon rainforest through sustainable travel for 35 years. By partnering with local communities and scientific institutions, Rainforest Expeditions offers unique and immersive experiences that foster a deep appreciation for nature while supporting biodiversity and sustainable development.

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