Aquila spilogaster
The African Hawk-Eagle (Aquila spilogaster) is a striking raptor, showcasing a powerful yet agile build, perfectly adapted for its varied woodland and savanna habitats. Adults are characterized by their predominantly black-brown upperparts, often appearing almost glossy, contrasted sharply with clean white underparts marked by bold black streaking on the breast and flanks. A distinctive short black crest, piercing dark eyes, and bright yellow cere and feet complete its fierce appearance. Meas...
Found in diverse habitats including woodlands, savannas, riverine forests, and montane slopes, often favoring rocky outcrops and areas with tall trees or cliffs for nesting, from sea level up to 3,000 meters.
Primarily carnivorous, preying on medium-sized birds (francolins, guineafowl, hornbills, turacos), small mammals (dassies, squirrels, mongoose), and reptiles (lizards, snakes), typically captured through a powerful aerial stoop or swift pursuit.
African Hawk-Eagles are diurnal predators, spending their days actively hunting and soaring high above their territories, often perching inconspicuously on tall trees or cliff ledges for extended periods. Their primary foraging strategy involves high-soaring or perch-hunting, followed by a swift,...
The African Hawk-Eagle is widely distributed across sub-Saharan Africa, extending from Senegal and Guinea-Bissau in the west, eastward through the Central African Republic, Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda, and Ethiopia, and southwards through Kenya, Tanzania, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, an...
Least Concern
- The African Hawk-Eagle is renowned for its exceptional agility in flight, allowing it to navigate dense woodland canopies with surprising ease despite its size. - Its scientific name, *Aquila spilogaster*, translates roughly to "spotted-bellied eagle," referring to the distinctive streaking on ...