The Booted Eagle (Hieraaetus pennatus) is a small eagle species that is comparable to the common buzzard in size, but has a more eagle-like shape. Males typically weigh between 510-770 grams (1.12-1.70 lb), while females are slightly larger, weighing between 840-1,025 grams (1.852-2.260 lb).

Booted Eagle Weight: The Specifics

The Booted Eagle’s weight can vary depending on several factors, including gender, age, and geographic location. Here’s a closer look at the specific weight ranges for this species:

Male Booted Eagle Weight

• Weight range: 510-770 grams (1.12-1.70 lb)
• Average weight: Approximately 640 grams (1.41 lb)

Female Booted Eagle Weight

• Weight range: 840-1,025 grams (1.852-2.260 lb)
• Average weight: Approximately 932 grams (2.05 lb)

As you can see, female Booted Eagles are typically larger and heavier than their male counterparts. This is a common trend among raptor species, where the females are often the larger and more dominant sex.

Booted Eagle Wingspan and Length

Image source: Booted eagle By Dr. Raju Kasambe

In addition to their weight, the Booted Eagle’s physical characteristics also include:

• Wingspan: 110-132 cm (43-52 inches)
• Length: Approximately 40 cm (15.7 inches)

These measurements give the Booted Eagle a relatively compact and agile build, which is well-suited for their hunting and soaring behaviors.

Booted Eagle Plumage Variations

The Booted Eagle has two distinct plumage forms: pale and mid-brown. The key differences between these morphs are:

Pale Morph
– Light grey plumage with a darker head and flight feathers
– More common in western and southern Europe

Mid-Brown Morph
– Dark grey flight feathers with mid-brown plumage
– More common in eastern Europe and Asia

These plumage variations are believed to be an adaptation to the different environments and habitats where the Booted Eagle can be found.

Booted Eagle Habitat and Diet

The Booted Eagle prefers wooded, hilly countryside with some open areas, and breeds in rocky, broken terrain. Their diet consists mainly of small mammals, reptiles, and birds, which they hunt on the wing, stooping quickly with wings folded in and feet extended.

In Southern Africa, birds are the most common prey for the Booted Eagle. This includes a variety of small to medium-sized avian species, such as:

• Pigeons
• Doves
• Starlings
• Larks
• Sparrows

Booted Eagle Breeding and Nesting

Booted Eagles build their nests from sticks and line them with green leaves in trees or on crags, or they take over the disused nests of other large birds such as black kites or grey herons. The female incubates the eggs for around 45 days, and is fed by the male during this time. After hatching, the female guards the nest and the young while the male provides all the food. The chick fledges after 70-75 days.

Booted Eagle Conservation Status

The Booted Eagle is classified as Least Concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). However, its population is declining due to habitat loss, collision with power lines, and persecution. Conservation efforts are crucial to ensure the long-term survival of this fascinating raptor species.

References:
– Birdid.no
– Animals Fandom
– European Raptors
– Animalia.bio
– Wikipedia