The secretarybird or secretary bird is a large, mostly terrestrial bird of prey. Endemic to Africa, it is usually found in the open grasslands and savanna of the sub-Saharan region.

The secretarybird is instantly recognizable as a very large bird with an eagle-like body on crane-like legs that give the bird a height of as much as 1.3 m (4 ft 3 in). The sexes are similar in appearance. Adults have a featherless red-orange face and predominantly grey plumage, with a flattened dark crest and black flight feathers and thighs.

The secretarybird hunts and catches prey on the ground, often stomping on victims to kill them. Insects and small vertebrates make up its diet.

The secretarybird has traditionally been admired in Africa for its striking appearance and ability to deal with pests and snakes. It is a prominent feature on the coat of arms of South Africa, which was adopted in 2000. It is on the emblem of Sudan, adopted in 1969. It is featured on the Sudanese presidential flag and presidential seal.

The Maasai people call it "ol-enbai nabo", or "one arrow", referring to its crest feathers. They have used parts of the bird in traditional medicine: its feathers could be burnt and the resulting smoke inhaled to treat epilepsy, its egg could be consumed with tea twice daily to treat headaches, and its fat could be boiled and drunk for child growth or livestock health.

More Info: en.wikipedia.org