Abstract:
This study aimed to identify variables that affect habitat selection and nesting success of the African Crowned
Eagle Stephanoaetus coronatus, the largest forest raptor, in north-eastern South Africa. A preference for nesting
in the Northern Mistbelt Forest vegetation type was established and 82% of all nests were located in indigenous
trees. Nest abandonment was less common when distances to the nearest neighbour were greater. The diet of this
species was investigated by examination of prey remains beneath nests and verified by comparison with museum
specimens. In total, 156 remains were found, representing a minimum of 75 prey individuals. The diet of African
Crowned Eagles constituted almost entirely mammals (99%), which were predominantly antelopes (61%) and
monkeys (25%). It was also found that the proportion of primates in the diet correlates with latitude: populations in
equatorial latitudes have a higher proportion of primates in their diets, whereas further south antelopes are a much
more common diet component.
