Tawny Eagles (Aquila rapax) are large birds of prey known for their hunting skills and carnivorous diet. While they primarily feed on a wide variety of prey, including mammals, birds, reptiles, fish, amphibians, and insects, they have been known to consume plants and fruits on rare occasions.

Tawny Eagles’ Diet

Tawny Eagles are opportunistic hunters, often taking advantage of carrion and scavenging from other animals. They have been observed feeding on carcasses of large mammals such as lions and leopards, as well as smaller prey like hares, dikdiks, francolins, bustards, hornbills, lizards, and snakes.

Prey Preferences

Tawny Eagles primarily feed on prey that weighs between 125 g (4.4 oz) and 2.5 kg (5.5 lb). However, they have been known to take prey in the latter prey class slightly less so than the much larger golden and wedge-tailed eagles.

Variety of Prey

Tawny Eagles have been observed feeding on over 200 species, including both live prey and carrion.

Consumption of Plants

Image source: Tawny Eagle by Bernard DUPONT

While Tawny Eagles are primarily carnivorous, they have been known to consume plants and fruits on rare occasions. This behavior is not common and is not a significant part of their diet.

Reasons for Plant Consumption

It is believed that Tawny Eagles may consume plants for hydration or nutritional purposes, particularly in areas where water is scarce.

Rare Observations

In 2013, a Tawny Eagle was observed consuming fruits in the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park in South Africa. This behavior is rare and not well understood.

Conclusion

In summary, while Tawny Eagles are primarily carnivorous, they have been known to consume plants and fruits on rare occasions. However, this is not a significant part of their diet, and they primarily feed on a wide variety of prey, including mammals, birds, reptiles, fish, amphibians, and insects.

References:
– Tawny Eagle (Aquila rapax)
– Tawny Eagle
– Tawny Eagle Feeding Habits
– Tawny Eagle