A Superfly render from my updated sets. The African Crowned Hawk-eagle is a widespread resident of sub-Saharan Africa. It inhabits forest, woodland, savanna and shrub land, as well as some modified habitats, such as plantations and secondary growth, and can persist in small forest fragments. Mature crowned eagles are reportedly nearly fearless towards humans and, unless shy from prior interactions, unusually prone to treat humans aggressively. Some biologists consider this species highly intelligent, cautious, independent and inquisitive when compared to other birds of prey. Throughout its range the principal prey items are small ungulates (such as duikers, chevrotains), rock hyrax and small primates such as monkeys; birds and large lizards are rarely taken. This species is "Near Threatened" with >50,000 individuals (possibly significantly less) in existence. There is a significant downward population trend due to deforestation, mining, encroachment of agriculture and plantations and direct persecution in an estimated 90% of its range (e.g. for food, arrow-fletching, witchcraft, ornaments and its pest status and threat to humans) . Rendered in Superfly without postwork. Models include "Songbird ReMix Birds of Prey: Eagles of the World" and "Perching Places".