With its striking face, large body and powerful talons, the harpy eagle is definitely one of the most captivating creatures on earth. Named after a beast in Greek mythology, the bird is sometimes referred to as a monster bird. But beauty lies in the eye of the beholder, some people think the bird is pretty handsome.

Native to tropical lowland rainforests from Mexico to Brazil and northern Argentina, the bird has an incredible size. It can reach up to one meter in height and has a wingspan of two meters long, making it one of the largest raptors in the world.

Besides its size, the harpy eagle has powerful talons which measure 8-10 cm in length. Their rear talons are even bigger than the claws of a grizzly bear. So it comes as no surprise that the bird is at the top of its food chain. They are like jaguars, nothing eats them.

But unfortunately, the population of the bird is declining due to hunting and deforestation. The bird only breeds every two years, so it's not easy for the population of the species to recover. Currently, harpy eagle is listed as Near Threatened on the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List.

Here are some photos of this striking bird. 

About 'Melody of Birds'

"Melody of Birds" is a series of pictures about lovely birds in the world. Stay tuned to see more charming bird photos under the theme.

For more:

New Zealand Pigeon: A bird that can swallow large fruit

Inca tern: The bird with a white mustache

Victoria Crowned Pigeon: A beauty in danger

Meet the cute 'diver' with iconic blue feet

The colorful bird that walks on floating plants

An impressive bird with an enormous shoe-shaped bill

American robin: The bird lay Tiffany Blue egg

Pelican: The bird with the impressive throat pouch

King vulture: A colorful and distinctive scavenger

Hummingbird: The only bird that can fly backwards

Hoopoe: Beautiful bird with smelly defense

Guinea Fowl: The best security guard you can employ

Does forever love really exist?

Atlantic puffin: Clown of the sea

Meet the bird with a half-moon crest on its head

Melody of Birds: Beautiful birds and fantastic flowers

Melody of Birds: Cooling down in summer

(All photos via VCG)

(If you want to contribute and have specific expertise, please contact us at nature@cgtn.com)