Science & Nature • Birds

Harpy eagle

The harpy eagle (*Harpia harpyja*) is a large bird of prey native to tropical lowland forests in Central and South America.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

The harpy eagle (Harpia harpyja) is a large bird of prey native to tropical lowland forests in Central and South America. It is widely described as one of the world’s largest and most powerful eagles, and it is named after the harpies of Greek mythology. The species is listed as Vulnerable by the IUCN.

Taxonomy and naming

Harpy eagle is the common name for *Harpia harpyja*, a species in the family Accipitridae. Its name is derived from the harpies of Greek mythology, which were depicted as bird-like beings.

Description

The harpy eagle is a large crested raptor with a powerful build and prominent talons. Sources describe it as one of the largest and most powerful eagles in the world.

Distribution and habitat

The species inhabits tropical lowland forests in Central and South America, especially forested areas with tall trees. Its range extends from southern Mexico to northern Argentina, though it is absent or rare in parts of its former range.

Diet and behaviour

Harpy eagles are apex predators that feed mainly on arboreal mammals, including monkeys and sloths, and also take birds and reptiles. They build large nests in tall trees and usually raise a small number of young.

Conservation

The IUCN lists the harpy eagle as Vulnerable. Main threats include habitat loss from deforestation and direct persecution, and the species has disappeared from some areas of its historical range.

Key facts

The harpy eagle is a neotropical eagle native to forests from southern Mexico through Central America and much of South America.
It is among the largest living eagles and is often described as one of the most powerful birds of prey.
Its common name comes from the harpies of Greek mythology.
The species hunts mammals such as monkeys and sloths, as well as some birds and reptiles.
Population decline has been linked mainly to deforestation and hunting.

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Canadian context

Canadian readers may know the harpy eagle from wildlife documentaries and zoological collections, but it is not native to Canada.

Frequently asked questions

What is a harpy eagle?

A harpy eagle is a large neotropical bird of prey, scientifically named *Harpia harpyja*, that lives in tropical forests in Central and South America.

Why is it called a harpy eagle?

It is named after the harpies of Greek mythology, which were imagined as bird-like creatures.

Where does the harpy eagle live?

It lives in lowland tropical forests and rainforest canopy habitats from southern Mexico through Central America and much of South America.

What does the harpy eagle eat?

It mainly hunts tree-dwelling mammals such as monkeys and sloths, and also takes birds and reptiles.

Is the harpy eagle endangered?

The IUCN classifies it as Vulnerable, mainly because of habitat loss and hunting.

Is the harpy eagle important to Panama?

Yes. The harpy eagle is the national bird of Panama.

References

Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/animal/harpy-eagle-species
Supports: Scientific name, family, range, habitat, name origin, and IUCN status.
San Diego Zoo — https://animals.sandiegozoo.org/animals/harpy-eagle
Supports: Description, habitat, size, breeding, and national bird of Panama.
PBS Nature — https://www.pbs.org/wnet/nature/blog/harpy-eagle-fact-sheet/
Supports: Species identification and IUCN Vulnerable status.
The Peregrine Fund — https://www.peregrinefund.org/explore-raptors-species/eagles/harpy-eagle
Supports: Range, habitat, predatory habits, and main threats.
Audubon — https://www.audubon.org/news/10-fun-facts-about-harpy-eagle
Supports: Common name origin and general natural history.