Animal Family: Sagittariidae

About the Sagittariidae Family

The parent order is Accipitriformes.

Step into the extraordinary world of the Sagittariidae family, a truly unique avian group celebrated for its sole living member: the remarkable secretarybird. This family stands as a testament to specialized evolution, showcasing an array of adaptations that set it apart in the animal kingdom.

What makes Sagittariidae exceptionally unique is its distinct raptorial lifestyle combined with its terrestrial hunting methods. Unlike most birds of prey that hunt from the air, secretarybirds are predominantly ground-dwelling, employing their long legs and powerful kicks to dispatch prey. Their elongated, unfeathered legs give them an unmistakable appearance, reminiscent of secretaries with quill pens tucked behind their ears (hence the name). This unique hunting strategy, coupled with their stately gait, makes them truly singular amongst their avian relatives.

Animals within the Sagittariidae family, specifically the secretarybird, share several defining traits. They possess exceptionally long legs, essential for their terrestrial hunting. Their striking plumage includes a crest of long, black feathers, often appearing like pens. They are known for their impressive wingspan, which they utilize for display flights and soaring, despite their ground-based hunting. Furthermore, their diet primarily consists of snakes and other ground-dwelling vertebrates, which they expertly hunt using their powerful kicks. Their keen eyesight and ability to navigate open grasslands with ease are also common characteristics within this distinctive family.

Other Orders

There are many different orders based upon their class. To learn more about classification orders, click here.