Harpy Eagle

Today the harpy eagle is one of the most powerful raptors in the tropical rainforests of Central and South America. It has talons, strong legs, and broad wings that help it fly through dense forest while hunting monkeys, sloths, and other tree animals. Its dark feathers help it blend into the canopy and surprise prey. In the future climate change and warming forests could push harpy eagles to adapt in several ways. As shown in my design the eagle develops longer wings that allow it to glide farther using less energy in hotter temperatures. Its feathers become thinner and darker, helping release heat while still providing camouflage in the canopy. The talons grow larger for catching tougher prey as habitats change. It may also hunt over wider areas, move to cooler higher elevations, and build nests in new locations while becoming more territorial to protect limited food and nesting space.