tawny eagle

The tawny eagle (Aquila rapax) is a majestic and long-lived bird of prey belonging to the Accipitridae family. Renowned for its resilience and adaptability, this large raptor is a common sight across the vast landscapes of Africa and parts of southern Asia, often living up to 16 years.

This species is a large eagle, measuring between 60 to 75 cm in length with a wingspan reaching 159 to 190 cm. It typically weighs between 1.6 and 3 kg. Its plumage features tawny upper parts with blackish flight feathers and a very pale lower back. It is notably smaller and paler than the steppe eagle and lacks that species' characteristic pale throat.

The tawny eagle favors open dry habitats. Its preferred environments include:

• Deserts and semi-deserts
• Steppes and savanna plains
• Open woodlands
• Cultivated lands and areas near human settlements
• Proximity to slaughterhouses

The tawny eagle is a highly opportunistic feeder with a diverse diet. It consumes:

• Carrion: Usually fresh remains, often those killed by other raptors.
• Mammals: Rabbits and small to medium-sized rodents.
• Reptiles: Lizards and various snakes.
• Insects: Crickets, grasshoppers, and flying termites depending on the season.
• Birds: Species up to the size of a guinea-fowl, especially those that are injured or sick.

Breeding seasons vary by location; for example, in India, it spans from November to August. They are resident breeders that construct large nests using sticks and twigs on top of tall, isolated trees, crags, or even the ground. A typical clutch contains 1 to 3 eggs.

Tawny eagles are known for their bold behavior. While they kill their own prey on the ground, they are also notorious for stealing food from other raptors, regardless of whether the other bird is smaller or larger. They are often seen scavenging near human activities where food scraps or carcasses are available.

The tawny eagle is currently a widespread species, though like many large raptors, it faces threats from habitat loss, poisoning, and changes in land use. It remains an important part of the ecosystem as both a predator and a scavenger.

1. Tawny eagles can reach an impressive age of 16 years in the wild.
2. They are one of the smaller species within the Aquila genus.
3. They exhibit a wide range of variation in plumage color between individuals.
4. Despite being hunters, they heavily rely on kleptoparasitism (stealing food).
5. They are often seen near slaughterhouses, taking advantage of easy food sources.

To spot a tawny eagle, scan the tops of isolated trees in savanna plains or semi-desert regions. They are most active during the day and can often be found near other large raptors at carcasses. Use binoculars to look for the lack of a pale throat to distinguish them from the similar-looking steppe eagle.

The tawny eagle is a fascinating example of avian adaptability. Whether soaring over the African savanna or nesting in the Indian subcontinent, this raptor's unique blend of hunting and scavenging skills makes it a vital and resilient member of the Accipitridae family.