Crested eagles, also known as crowned eagles, are apex predators found in sub-Saharan Africa. They are known for their powerful hunting abilities and striking appearance, with a distinctive double crest on their heads. Training crested eagles for falconry or other purposes is not a common practice, but it is possible with the right knowledge, experience, and resources.

The Challenges of Training Crested Eagles

One of the key challenges in training crested eagles is their independent and cautious nature. Unlike some other birds of prey, crested eagles cannot be induced to direct their hunting instinct towards large prey by increasing their hunger. This means that training a crested eagle requires a more gradual and patient approach, focusing on building a trusting relationship between the bird and its handler.

The Process of Training Crested Eagles

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

The first stage in training a crested eagle is called “manning,” which involves getting the bird accustomed to human presence and handling. This process can take several weeks or even months, depending on the individual bird’s temperament and previous experiences. During this stage, the handler will spend time with the bird, offering it food and gradually increasing the amount of handling and interaction.

Once the bird is comfortable with human contact, the next step is to begin teaching it to fly to and from the handler’s glove. This is done using a lure, which is a piece of meat or other food that is attached to a long line. The handler will move away from the bird, holding the lure, and encourage the bird to fly to the glove to receive the food. Over time, the bird will learn to associate the glove with food and will fly to it more readily.

As the bird becomes more confident and reliable, the handler can begin to introduce it to more advanced training techniques, such as hunting and tracking prey. However, it is important to note that crested eagles are not typically used for hunting in falconry, as they are more suited to hunting from a perch or in forested areas.

Physical Specifications of Crested Eagles

In terms of physical specifications, crested eagles are large birds, with a wingspan of up to 7.5 feet and a weight of up to 15 pounds. They have a distinctive double crest on their heads, which is made up of long, stiff feathers. Their plumage is mostly dark brown, with white markings on the chest and underwings.

Crested eagles are also known for their powerful hunting abilities, with a talon grip strength of up to 350 psi. They are capable of taking prey up to the size of small antelope, and have been known to attack and kill animals as large as leopards.

Conservation Status of Crested Eagles

In terms of conservation status, crested eagles are classified as vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). They face a number of threats, including habitat loss, persecution by humans, and collision with power lines. As a result, conservation efforts are focused on protecting their habitat, reducing human-eagle conflicts, and promoting awareness and education about these magnificent birds.

Conclusion

While training crested eagles is not a common practice, it is possible with the right knowledge, experience, and resources. These birds are powerful and independent hunters, with a distinctive appearance and striking presence. However, they require a great deal of patience, time, and dedication to train, and are not typically used for hunting in falconry. If you are interested in learning more about crested eagles or other birds of prey, there are many resources available, including books, websites, and organizations dedicated to the conservation and study of these amazing creatures.

References:
– Simon Thomsett on the African Crowned Eagle – Part 3, http://ww12.africanraptors.org/simon-thomsett-on-the-african-crowned-eagle-part-3/
– Falconry | History, Birds, Equipment, Techniques, & Facts, https://www.britannica.com/sports/falconry
– Birds Used In Falconry – Broadmoor Outfitters, https://www.broadmooroutfitters.com/birds-used-in-falconry/
– Crowned eagle – Wikipedia, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crowned_eagle
– Golden Eagle | Training [SAKO] – YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FaqCEAi3gYQ