Bonelli's Eagle Bird Details
Aquila fasciata
Bonelli's Eagle,Crestless Hawk-Eagle, Italian Eagle, Mediterranean Eagle, Banded Eagle;
Bonelli ka Garur
Louis Pierre Vieillot
Accipitriformes (HAWKS, EAGLES and KITES)
Accipitridae
Aquila
- Southern Europe (Spain, Italy, France, Greece, etc.)
- North Africa (Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia)
- Middle East (Turkey, Israel, Iran)
- India
- Southeast Asia (Thailand, Indonesia)
Appearance :
Plumage is dark brown above with a lighter, streaked underbelly. White markings on the wings and a distinctive white “V” on the nape. Juveniles have a more mottled appearance.
Behaviour :
Generally solitary or found in pairs. Territorial, especially during breeding season. Known for impressive aerial displays during courtship.
Habitat :
Prefers open areas with cliffs, mountainous regions, and forests. Often found near agricultural land, which provides hunting grounds.
Diet :
Primarily feeds on small to medium-sized mammals (like rabbits, hares) and birds. Occasionally feeds on reptiles.
Conservation Status :
Near Threatened
Distribution :
Found in Southern Europe, North Africa, and parts of Asia. Migratory patterns observed in certain populations.
Population Size :
Estimated global population is around 10,000-20,000 individuals.
Life Span :
Can live up to 20 years in the wild.
Body And Tarsus:
- Body: A medium to large eagle with a robust body and powerful build, exhibiting sexual dimorphism with females typically larger than males.
- Tarsus Length: Approximately 9.5 to 11 cm (3.7 to 4.3 in), contributing to their strong hunting capabilities.
Head And Bill :
- Head: Relatively small compared to body size, with a rounded shape and a slight crest of feathers.
- Eyes: Large, intense, often pale yellow or golden, aiding in excellent vision.
- Bill : Short and hooked, well-adapted for tearing flesh.
- Bill Length: About 4.5 to 5 cm (1.8 to 2 in).
Length :
Ranges from 65 to 75 cm (25 to 30 in), depending on sex and age.
Neck :
Strong and muscular, allowing for stability while hunting and maneuvering in flight.
Size :
Females are larger than males
Tail Details :
- Tail: Long and tapered, aiding in agile flight.
- Tail Length: Approximately 25 to 30 cm (9.8 to 11.8 in).
- Feathers: Dark brown on the upperparts with lighter streaking or banding on the underparts; juveniles display more mottled feathers.
Weight :
Males typically weigh between 2.5 to 3.5 kg (5.5 to 7.7 lbs), while females can weigh between 3.5 to 4.5 kg (7.7 to 9.9 lbs).
Wing :
Broad and long with a slight taper towards the tips, allowing for dynamic soaring and maneuverability.
Wing Span :
Ranges from 155 to 175 cm (61 to 69 in).
Facial Feature :
Distinctive pale facial markings with a dark crown. Strong brow ridge contributing to a fierce expression.
Nest Details :
- Nest Location: Typically built on cliffs, ledges, or tall trees, often in remote or inaccessible areas.
- Nest Structure: Large and substantial, made from sticks, branches, and sometimes lined with softer materials like grass and moss.
- Nest Made Up Of: Primarily constructed from twigs, branches, and other vegetation. They may incorporate various materials such as Grass, Feathers, Moss, Reeds.
Breeding Season :
Generally occurs from late winter to early spring.
Nesting Season :
The nesting season occurs from January to June.
Egg Color :
Usually pale bluish-white or creamy with varying degrees of brown speckling.
Egg Length :
Ranges from 6.5 to 7.5 cm (2.6 to 3.0 in).
Egg Width and Weight :
- Egg Width: Approximately 4.5 to 5 cm (1.8 to 2.0 in).
- Egg Weight: Each egg weighs around 130 to 160 grams (4.6 to 5.6 oz).
Clutch Size :
Generally consists of 1 to 3 eggs, with 2 being the most common.
No. of Broods :
Typically produces one brood per breeding season.
Incubation Period :
Lasts about 40 to 45 days.
Nestling Period :
Young eagles fledge after about 70 to 75 days.
Vocalization :
Calls include a series of high-pitched, sharp whistles and screams.
Sex Demorphism :
Females are larger than males, with more robust bodies, larger wingspans, and greater overall weight. Males tend to have slightly narrower wings.
Migration Details :
- Migration Pattern: Generally not a long-distance migratory species; some populations may migrate seasonally based on local conditions and food availability.
- Migration Period: Migration may occur in autumn and spring, but many Bonelli’s Eagles remain resident in their breeding territories year-round.
- Migration Route: Specific routes can vary widely depending on the region; generally, movements are localized and often do not involve long migrations like some other eagle species.
