Random Fascinating Facts About Secretary Bird, A Snake-Killing Badass (12 items)

• 

  (#4) They Are Being Studied To Possibly Assist In Robotic Prosthetics

  The long, slender legs of the secretary bird may make it an unquestionable killing machine, but their unique anatomy may assist in the development of better human prosthetics. The remarkable force generated by these birds has led scientists to believe the mechanics behind them could be used in sporting prosthetics. The quick speed and heavy force could be applied to prosthetics designed to hit and throw baseballs, a novel appliance for such a deadly adaptation. 
• 

  (#7) The Might Be Named After Their Physical Similarities To Male Secretaries

  The stories behind the secretary bird’s peculiar name may be myth, but they are too interesting to ignore. It all started when Europeans first discovered these birds in the 1800s. It is believed the name came from one of two features; either they were named after the quill-like feathers on the back of their heads that resemble a pen behind the ear, or their distinctive grey coats and black leg-feathers resemble the jacket and tie common of male secretaries at the time of their discovery.
• 

  (#6) Unlike Most Raptors, They Hunt On The Ground

  While most birds of prey are known for swooping down from the skies and ensnaring prey with razor sharp talons, secretary birds hunt in a manner reminiscent of their dinosaur ancestors. They lumber through grasslands, constantly scanning the ground for signs of prey. When they find something, they quickly stomp or peck it to death before swallowing the poor creature whole.

  Researchers are using the secretary bird's prehistoric hunting techniques to better learn about extinct predators like the terror bird, a post-Cretaceous carnivorous bird that was as deadly as it was giant. Their similar body shape has led scientists to believe secretary birds and terror birds hunted in similar ways. 
• 

  (#8) Secretary Birds Are Devoted Parents

  Unlike many species of raptor, the secretary bird is a very successful parent. They tend to be monogamous, partnering up to build their nests and raise their young. They are loyal to each other and their nest, and will use the same nest for several years. A secretary bird nest can be up to eight feet across and is usually made up of twigs, leaves, animal fur, and dung. While that may sound gross, it’s the perfect home for raising their chicks. Females usually lay three eggs and take the brunt of the responsibility when it comes to incubation. 

  As a testament to their good parenting, secretary birds are able to successfully raise multiple chicks at once, a rarity for birds of prey. The parents take turns watching the chicks and hunting for food, and at 12 weeks are ready to leave the nest. The parents teach their chicks to fly and hunt for prey, and then the baby birds wander off onto the savannah to fend for themselves.
• 

  (#3) Secretary Birds Can Grow To Over Four Feet Tall

  One of the tallest living raptors, the secretary bird can be found strutting through the savannah on two elongated legs. Estimates very, but some put secretary birds at 4.9 feet tall, although most birds measure closer to four feet. This gives the the distinctive title of having the longest legs of any living bird of prey. On top of their monstrous gams, secretary birds sport an equally impressive seven foot wingspan. 
• 

  (#11) Males Do Aerial Dances For Females

  Although they spend most of their time on the ground, that doesn't mean secretary birds can’t fly. They fly up into the trees at night to sleep, and they are known for the aerial mating displays. When two potential mates meet, they take the skies and engage in an elaborate ritual where they will soar to great heights. The males will perform an impressive dive-bomb toward the female, and she will often turn and show her claws as a sign of approval. 

New Random Displays    Display All By Ranking