Lesser Spotted Eagle

The lesser spotted eagle, Clanga pomarina, presents itself as a medium-sized raptor, measuring approximately 60 cm in length with a wingspan reaching 150 cm. Its plumage is characterized by pale brown head and wing coverts, which stand in contrast to the darker feathers that adorn the rest of its body. Notably, the eagle's head and bill appear rather small when compared to other members of its genus.

Identification Tips

When observing the lesser spotted eagle, look for the distinctive white patch on the upper wings and the pronounced white "V" on the rump, a feature retained even in adulthood. Juveniles display less contrast in their wings, but their remiges are marked with prominent white spots. A cream-colored neck patch is also a distinguishing feature in the young. The bird's call is reminiscent of a dog-like yip, which can aid in identification.

Habitat

This eagle favors open or lightly wooded areas, where it can be seen soaring in search of prey.

Distribution

The lesser spotted eagle breeds from Central and Eastern Europe, stretching southeast to Turkey and Armenia, and migrates to Africa to overwinter.

Behaviour

Territorial by nature, the lesser spotted eagle maintains consistent territories year after year, particularly in the north-western part of its range. Breeding success seems to be influenced by large-scale factors such as climate or prey availability rather than the proximity of neighboring territories.

Song & Calls

The lesser spotted eagle is known for its distinctive, dog-like yip, which can be heard during encounters in the wild.

Breeding

In the breeding season, the female lays one to three white, buff-spotted eggs in a tree nest. The first chick to hatch often outcompetes its siblings, as the female begins incubation with the first egg, leading to size disparity among the hatchlings.

Similar Species

The greater spotted eagle can be confused with the lesser spotted eagle, but the former lacks the wing covert spotting and the well-defined white "V" on the rump seen in the latter.

Diet and Feeding

This eagle's diet consists primarily of small mammals such as voles, ground squirrels, rats, and mice, as well as small birds, amphibians, reptiles, and occasionally insects like termites. It has also been known to feed on carrion.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List currently classifies the lesser spotted eagle as Least Concern, indicating a stable population status.