Indian Spotted Eagle Bird Details
Clanga hastata
Indian Spotted Eagle,Spotted Imperial Eagle, Long-Legged Eagle,;
Eagle
Rene Primevere Lesson, 1831
Accipitriformes (HAWKS, EAGLES and KITES)
Accipitridae
Clanga
Appearance :
Adults have a dark brown plumage with lighter spots and streaks. The head is lighter compared to the body, and the wings are broad with a contrasting pattern of light and dark feathers.
Behaviour :
Primarily solitary, often seen soaring high in the sky or perched on tall trees or rocky outcrops. Hunts during the day, often soaring to spot prey from a height. They are known for their powerful flight and keen eyesight. The mating pairs are monogamous and may use the same nest year after year.
Habitat :
Prefers open and semi-open habitats including grasslands, scrublands, and forests with tall trees or cliffs for nesting. Found at varying altitudes, but commonly at lower elevations.
Diet :
Small to medium-sized mammals, birds, and reptiles. They may also feed on carrion and insects. Utilizes a combination of soaring and diving to capture prey.
Conservation Status :
Least Concern
Distribution :
Found across parts of the Indian subcontinent, including India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh.
Population Size :
There are approximately 2,500-9,999 individuals
Life Span :
Typically 15 to 20 years in the wild
Body And Tarsus:
- Body: The Indian Spotted Eagle is a robust, medium-sized bird of prey with a distinctive appearance characterized by dark brown plumage with lighter spots and streaks.
- Tarsus Length: Approximately 8 to 10 cm.
Head And Bill :
- Head: The head is relatively small compared to the body, with a lighter coloration than the rest of the plumage, often with a pale or whitish hue.
- Bill: The bill is strong and hooked, ideal for tearing flesh. It is yellow with a black tip.
- Bill Length: Approximately 4 to 5 cm.
Length :
Typically ranges from 60 to 70 cm from beak to tail.
Neck :
The neck is relatively short and strong, supporting the eagle's head and facilitating its predatory activities.
Size :
The Indian Spotted Eagle is a medium-sized eagle with a wingspan that is substantial in proportion to its body size.
Tail Details :
- Tail: The tail is long and slightly rounded, aiding in the bird’s maneuverability during flight.
- Tail Length: Approximately 20 to 25 cm.
Weight :
Males typically weigh between 1.5 to 2.0 kg, while females are slightly larger, ranging from 1.8 to 2.5 kg.
Wing :
The wings are broad and rounded, well-suited for soaring and gliding. The wing shape provides stability and maneuverability in flight.
Wing Span :
Approximately 160 to 180 cm, depending on the individual.
Facial Feature :
The facial features of the Indian Spotted Eagle include a relatively small head with a pale face compared to the rest of the body, and a sharp, hooked beak. The facial coloration helps in distinguishing it from other similar species.
Nest Details :
- Nest Description: The nest is large and bulky, often built in tall trees or on cliffs. It is usually situated at a height that provides a good vantage point and safety from predators.
- Nest Composition: Nests are constructed from large sticks and twigs, lined with softer materials like leaves, grass, and feathers.
Breeding Season :
Typically, the breeding season occurs from late winter to early summer, roughly from February to June.
Nesting Season :
During the breeding period, pairs establish nests and lay eggs.
Egg Color :
The eggs are typically pale blue to greenish or white, often with speckles or blotches of brown or olive.
Egg Length :
Approximately 6.0 to 7.0 cm.
Egg Width and Weight :
- Egg Width: Approximately 4.5 to 5.0 cm.
- Egg Weight: Each egg weighs around 90 to 100 grams.
Clutch Size :
Generally, the clutch consists of 1 to 3 eggs.
No. of Broods :
Usually, there is one brood per year.
Incubation Period :
The incubation period lasts about 35 to 40 days.
Nestling Period :
The nestlings fledge (leave the nest) at around 70 to 80 days old.
Vocalization :
The Indian Spotted Eagle produces a range of calls, including a series of high-pitched, repetitive whistles or screeches.
Sex Demorphism :
Females are generally larger and heavier than males.
Migration Details :
- Migration Pattern: The Indian Spotted Eagle is mostly resident within its range but can undertake local movements based on food availability and environmental conditions.
- Migration Period: In some regions, especially northern parts of its range, individuals may migrate short distances or move to lower altitudes during the winter months, but extensive migrations are not typical for this species.
