steppe eagle

The Steppe Eagle (Aquila nipalensis) is a majestic bird of prey belonging to the family Accipitridae. Known for its impressive size and powerful flight, this raptor is a quintessential inhabitant of the vast, open plains of the Old World.

The Steppe Eagle is a large raptor, typically measuring between 76-80 cm in length with a massive wingspan ranging from 1.65 to 2.15 meters. It features dark brown plumage with blackish flight feathers and a distinctive pale throat. Females are notably larger and heavier than males, weighing up to 4.9 kg compared to the male's maximum of 3.5 kg.

True to its name, this species inhabits open dry habitats. You can find them across deserts, semi-deserts, steppes, and savannahs. They prefer flat or gently undulating terrain where they have a clear view of the horizon for hunting.

The Steppe Eagle is a versatile hunter. Its favorite prey is the suslik (ground squirrel), but it also consumes other rodents, birds, reptiles, and crickets. Interestingly, it often engages in kleptoparasitism, stealing prey from other raptors in mid-flight. During migration or winter, especially immature birds will feed on carrion.

Nesting typically occurs on the ground, on low bushes, or occasionally on cliffs and power poles within their open habitat. They usually lay a clutch of 1 to 3 eggs. The nests are large structures made of sticks and lined with various materials found in their environment.

While generally a silent bird, its call is described as a crow-like bark. They utilize a variety of hunting techniques, including catching prey while walking on the ground or diving from the air. They are highly migratory, traveling vast distances between their breeding grounds and wintering areas.

The Steppe Eagle is currently listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List. Population declines are attributed to habitat loss, persecution, and hazards such as electrocution from power lines and poisoning.

1. It was once considered the same species as the non-migratory Tawny Eagle.
2. The Steppe Eagle appears on the national flag of Kazakhstan.
3. They are one of the few eagle species that can be seen hunting while walking on the ground.
4. Their scientific name 'nipalensis' refers to Nepal, where the first specimens were documented during migration.

To spot a Steppe Eagle, plan your trip during migration seasons (autumn and spring) at known bottlenecks. Look for a large, dark raptor with a pale throat and a very deep gape (the line of the mouth) which extends back past the eye, a key feature that distinguishes it from the similar Tawny Eagle.

The Steppe Eagle is an apex predator that plays a vital role in the ecosystem of the steppes. Protecting its remaining habitat and migratory paths is essential for the survival of this iconic and powerful raptor.