short toed snake eagle

The short-toed snake eagle (Circaetus gallicus), also commonly known as the short-toed eagle, is a specialized medium-sized bird of prey. As a member of the family Accipitridae, it shares its lineage with kites, buzzards, and harriers, but stands out due to its unique dietary preference for reptiles.

This raptor measures between 62 to 67 cm in length with an impressive wingspan of 160 to 190 cm. It is easily identified by its owl-like face and striking bright yellow eyes. The plumage consists of greyish-brown upper parts and a predominantly white underside, while the chin, throat, and upper breast are pale brown. Females are slightly larger than males, reaching weights of up to 2,300 grams.

The short-toed snake eagle thrives in warm temperate and tropical environments. Its preferred habitats include open cultivated plains, arid stony lands, deciduous scrub areas, and semi-desert regions. They are also frequently spotted in foothills where the landscape allows for clear visibility while hunting.

As its name suggests, this eagle is a specialist hunter of snakes, particularly those from the family Colubridae. The eagle typically captures the snake by the nape, killing it before transporting it back to the nest. Depending on the season, its diet may also include:

• Several species of lizards
• Small mammals ranging from rodents to hares
• Occasional invertebrates and small birds

Breeding typically occurs once a year, with the eagle constructing a relatively small nest compared to its body size, often situated in trees. They usually lay a single egg, which is incubated for approximately 45-47 days. The nesting period is carefully timed to ensure peak reptile activity for feeding the young.

The short-toed snake eagle is known for its hovering flight, a behavior more common in smaller raptors like kestrels. It spends much of its time soaring over open ground, using its exceptional vision to spot movement. It is a migratory bird, moving toward warmer climates during the winter months to maintain its steady supply of reptilian prey.

Currently, the short-toed snake eagle is categorized as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. While its population is relatively stable, it remains sensitive to habitat loss and the decline of reptile populations due to intensive agricultural practices.

1. The genus name Circaetus is derived from the Ancient Greek words kirkos (hawk) and aetos (eagle).
2. The specific name gallicus translates to "of Gaul," referring to modern-day France.
3. Unlike many other eagles, its toes are relatively short and covered in thick scales to protect against snake bites.
4. They have been known to swallow snakes up to 1.5 meters in length.
5. Their tail features 3 to 4 distinct dark bars, which are visible during flight.

To spot a short-toed snake eagle, scan the skies over open scrubland or plains during the hottest part of the day when snakes are most active. Look for a large bird with a notably white belly and a large, rounded head that may occasionally hang in the air while hovering against the wind.

The short-toed snake eagle is a remarkable specialist of the avian world. Its distinct physical features, such as its owl-like head and yellow eyes, combined with its mastery of hunting dangerous reptiles, make it one of the most intriguing raptors to observe in the wild.