Female crested eagles are indeed larger than their male counterparts, a phenomenon known as reverse sexual size dimorphism. This size difference is particularly pronounced in bird-eating raptors like the crested eagle.

The Size Difference Between Male and Female Crested Eagles

According to the Handbook of the Birds of the World, female crested eagles typically weigh between 3.5 to 4.5 kg, while males weigh 2.5 to 3.5 kg. This means that females are about 25% heavier than males, a substantial difference in body size.

The size difference is not limited to weight alone. Female crested eagles also have a larger wingspan, reaching up to 1.8 meters, compared to the male’s wingspan of around 1.6 meters. This larger size gives females an advantage during hunting, as they can cover a larger area and have a better chance of spotting prey.

Physical Appearance Differences

Image source: Long-crested eagle By Charles J. Sharp

The size difference between male and female crested eagles is also evident in their physical appearance. Females have a larger head and beak than males, a common characteristic of sexually dimorphic raptors. This difference in size and appearance is believed to be related to the mating behavior of crested eagles.

Mating Behavior and Dominance

Females are the dominant sex in crested eagle pairs, and they choose their mates based on their size and strength. A larger head and beak are indicative of a stronger and more dominant male, which increases the female’s chances of producing healthy offspring.

Advantages of Larger Size for Females

The larger size of female crested eagles provides several advantages during hunting and breeding. Larger females can tackle larger prey, giving them a broader range of food sources. Additionally, their size and strength make them more dominant in the pair, allowing them to secure the best nesting sites and defend their territory more effectively.

Conservation Implications

Understanding the size difference between male and female crested eagles is essential for conservation efforts. This knowledge can help researchers and wildlife managers better understand the species’ behavior, ecology, and population dynamics, which is crucial for developing effective conservation strategies.

Conclusion

In summary, female crested eagles are indeed larger than their male counterparts, with a significant difference in weight, wingspan, and physical appearance. This size difference is advantageous for females during hunting and is related to their mating behavior and dominance within the pair. Recognizing and understanding these size differences is crucial for the conservation and management of this raptor species.

References:
– Accipitridae – hawks, eagles, and relatives – Animal Diversity Web. (n.d.). Retrieved April 20, 2024, from https://animaldiversity.org/accounts/Accipitridae/
– Handbook of the Birds of the World Alive. (n.d.). Retrieved April 20, 2024, from https://www.hbw.com/species/crested-eagle-Morphnus-guyanensis