Short-toed Snake Eagle

Circaetus gallicus

Family: Kites, Old World Vultures, Eagles, and Hawks · Status: Vagrant · Size: 62–67 cm · Conservation: Least Concern

Range

Breeds across southern Europe, northwest Africa, and the Middle East east to Central Asia and northern China, and in the Indian Subcontinent. Northern populations winter in tropical Africa and South Asia; eastern populations occasionally wander to Southeast Asia via the Thai-Malay Peninsula.

Identification

An eagle with a relatively large, owl-like head, broad wings, and variable plumage. Pale morph has greyish-brown upperparts, head and upper breast contrasting with pale whitish underparts, orange-yellow eyes, dark underwing barring, and a pale tail with three dark bands. Dark morph resembles pale morph but has a darker hood.

Habitat

Open country, wooded ridges, and forest edges. May also appear over reclaimed land.

Behaviour

Usually observed soaring and circling at great heights. Specialises on snakes and lizards, often hovering to survey terrain before parachuting onto prey.