Grasslands and sparsely wooded savanna are the Secretary Bird's preferred habitats. Although it can fly well it spends most of its day on foot, patrolling its territory at a steady pace in search of prey. Now and then it bursts into a quicker, stamping gait - probably to try and startle prey into moving. Once spotted, most victims are seized in the bill after a quick dash, but larger animals may be killed with blows from the feet. Secretary Birds have a reputation for taking snakes, and these do indeed form a part of its food. This can be observed in this artwork.
Overhead, a Secretary Bird shows a distinctive silhouette, with broad wings, and the long tail and legs projecting behind. Courtship displays offer a chance to observe this outline at leisure, as the bird, singly or together, soar high in the sky uttering strange groaning calls.
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