Steppe Eagle

Aquila nipalensis

Family: Kites, Old World Vultures, Eagles, and Hawks · Status: Vagrant · Size: 76–80 cm · Conservation: Endangered

Range

Breeds from southeast Europe across central Asia, the Indian subcontinent, northwest China, Mongolia, and central Siberia; northern populations winter to Africa, the Middle East, the Indian subcontinent, southern China, and mainland Southeast Asia.

Identification

Adult resembles Eastern Imperial Eagle but is slightly duller, lacks prominent white markings on upper scapulars, and has a small rufous-buff neck patch, paler throat, and dark undertail-coverts. Juvenile also resembles juvenile Eastern Imperial Eagle but lacks dark streaks on nape, neck, breast, and wing coverts; underwing shows a broad whitish wingbar between coverts and flight feathers.

Habitat

Reclaimed land and open country.

Behaviour

Takes carrion.