Eastern Imperial Eagle

The Eastern Imperial Eagle (Aquila heliaca) is a majestic bird of prey, with a robust build and a commanding presence. This large eagle is characterized by its dark plumage, which is the deepest hue among its genus within its range. The species is distinguished by feathered legs, a feature of the subfamily Aquilinae, to which it belongs.

Identification Tips

Adults exhibit a striking contrast between their tar-like blackish-brown body and the creamy to golden buff coloration on their crown, hindneck, and neck sides. Notably, they possess white "epaulettes" on their shoulders. Juveniles are primarily pale tawny-buff with dark brown streaks, transitioning to adult plumage over several years. In flight, the Eastern Imperial Eagle's long wings appear relatively narrow for its size, and it soars with a flat wing profile, unlike the V-shape of some related species.

Habitat

The Eastern Imperial Eagle favors open country with scattered trees, woodlands near wetlands, and the forest-steppe mosaics of the steppe. It requires open areas for hunting, such as grasslands, agricultural fields, and meadows within wooded landscapes.

Distribution

This species breeds in southeastern Europe and across West and Central Asia. Migratory populations winter in northeastern Africa, the Middle East, and South and East Asia.

Behaviour

The Eastern Imperial Eagle is an opportunistic predator, primarily hunting small to medium-sized mammals from a perch or during low soaring flight. It may also pirate food from other raptors and is known to hunt in pairs.

Song & Calls

On breeding grounds, the eagle's call is a deep, resonant bark, often repeated rapidly. It is deeper and harsher than that of the Golden Eagle and is frequently heard during aerial displays.

Breeding

Nests are typically constructed in large, mature trees. Clutch size ranges from 1 to 3 eggs, with incubation lasting around 43 days. Fledging occurs at approximately 60 days, with juveniles lingering near the nest for a few days thereafter.

Similar Species

The Eastern Imperial Eagle can be confused with the Golden Eagle but is distinguishable by its smaller size, darker plumage, and different flight profile. Juveniles may be mistaken for the Greater Spotted Eagle but lack the latter's contrasting wing pattern.

Diet and Feeding

The diet is diverse, including a variety of mammals, birds, reptiles, and occasionally carrion. Ground squirrels, hares, and various bird species are common prey.

Conservation status

The Eastern Imperial Eagle has been listed as Vulnerable by the IUCN since 1994, with populations declining due to habitat loss, persecution, and prey depletion. Conservation efforts are underway to protect and stabilize remaining populations.