Wedge-tailed Eagle

The Wedge-tailed Eagle (Aquila audax) is a majestic bird of prey and the largest in Australia. It is characterized by its long, broad wings, fully feathered legs, and distinctive wedge-shaped tail. The adult eagle's plumage is predominantly dark brown to black, with a maximum wingspan reaching an impressive 2.84 meters (9 feet 4 inches) and a body length of up to 1.06 meters (3 feet 6 inches).

Identification Tips

This eagle species can be identified by its elongated upper mandible, strong beak, and powerful feet. In flight, the wedged tail is clearly visible, and the bird's silhouette is unmistakable due to its large size, lanky build, and long, diamond-shaped tail. The juvenile is mainly darkish brown with extensive rufous feather edging and a paler, streaky head.

Habitat

Wedge-tailed Eagles inhabit a wide range of environments, from deserts and semi-deserts to forests and mountainous areas. They show a preference for habitats with varied topography, including rocky areas, open terrain, and native woodlots such as Eucalyptus stands.

Distribution

The species is found throughout Australia, including Tasmania, and extends to southern New Guinea. It is a versatile bird that adapts to most habitats present in Australia.

Behaviour

Wedge-tailed Eagles are powerful avian predators and are known for their soaring flight, often reaching great heights on thermal currents. They are sedentary birds, although juveniles can be quite dispersive. The species is known to be highly sensitive to human disturbance, especially at the nest.

Song & Calls

The vocalizations of the Wedge-tailed Eagle are not often heard and consist of high, thin whistles, sometimes transcribed as "I-see, I-see," followed by a short descending "see-tya."

Breeding

Wedge-tailed Eagles usually construct large stick nests in ample trees and typically lay two eggs. They tend to pair for several years, possibly mating for life. Nesting failures are often due to human interference.

Similar Species

The species can be confused with the Black-breasted Kite, which is much smaller with a shorter, squared tail and clear white windows on the wings.

Diet and Feeding

The Wedge-tailed Eagle is a generalist predator, hunting a wide range of prey, including mammals, birds, and reptiles. The introduction of the European rabbit has been beneficial to the species, providing a plentiful food source.

Conservation Status

The Wedge-tailed Eagle is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN. Historically persecuted for alleged predation on livestock, the species has shown resilience, with numbers rebounding due to legal protection and reduced human persecution. The Tasmanian subspecies, however, is considered endangered due to habitat loss and human disturbance.