Aquila nipalensis
The Steppe Eagle, *Aquila nipalensis*, is a magnificent large raptor, boasting a robust build and a wingspan often reaching 165-190 cm (65-75 inches), a length of 62-74 cm (24-29 inches), and weighing between 2.3-4.9 kg (5-11 lbs). Its plumage is predominantly dark brown, though juveniles exhibit a distinct two-toned underwing pattern with a broad pale band on the underwing coverts and a prominent pale primary patch, along with a pale nuchal patch that fades with age. A key identification fea...
The Steppe Eagle primarily inhabits open, arid to semi-arid landscapes, favoring extensive steppes, grasslands, semi-deserts, and agricultural areas, typically at low to moderate elevations.
The diet of the Steppe Eagle is exceptionally broad and opportunistic, primarily consisting of small mammals (e.g., ground squirrels, rodents), birds, reptiles, and large insects like locusts, foraging predominantly through soaring, perch-hunting, and extensive scavenging.
Steppe Eagles are primarily diurnal, spending their days soaring effortlessly on thermals in search of prey or scavenging, often perching on low structures or the ground when not airborne. Their foraging strategies are highly opportunistic, including low-level searching flights, perch-hunting, gr...
The Steppe Eagle's breeding range historically spanned from Eastern Europe, including parts of Ukraine and Russia, eastward across the vast steppes of Central Asia through Kazakhstan, Mongolia, and into northwestern China. During the non-breeding season, these magnificent raptors undertake extens...
Critically Endangered
- The Steppe Eagle undertakes one of the longest raptor migrations in the world, with some individuals traveling over 10,000 km (6,200 miles) between their breeding and wintering grounds. - These eagles are famous for congregating in massive numbers to follow and feed on outbreaks of locusts and ...