Steppe eagles (Aquila nipalensis) are large, robust birds of prey known for their dark brown coloration, long wings, and relatively small heads. While they are not typically black, their plumage can vary in color, with some individuals having darker centers to their feathers, giving them a slightly darker appearance.
Steppe Eagle Plumage Variations
Steppe eagles are members of the subgenus Aquilinae, also known as “booted eagles,” because they have feathered legs. Their plumage can vary in color, with the following variations:
| Plumage Variation | Description |
|---|---|
| Dark Brown | The most common coloration, with dark brown feathers across the body. |
| Darker Centers | Some individuals have darker centers to their feathers, giving them a slightly darker appearance. |
| Juvenile Plumage | Juvenile steppe eagles tend to be paler than adults and have dark brown eyes that fade to hazel as they reach maturity. |
While steppe eagles can have darker coloration, they do not have all-black plumage like the Black eagle (Ictinaetus malaiensis). The Black eagle is a distinct species with a completely black appearance, including a yellow bill base and yellow feet.
Steppe Eagle Size and Appearance
Image source: Steppe Eagle by Fimb
Steppe eagles are large, robust birds of prey with the following physical characteristics:
- Length: 65 to 80 centimeters (2.5 feet)
- Weight: 4 to 8 pounds (2-4 kilograms)
- Wingspan: 1.5 to 2 meters (4-6 feet)
- Females are generally larger and heavier than males.
Steppe eagles have long wings, a relatively small head, and feathered legs, which are characteristic of the “booted eagle” subgenus. Their eyes are dark brown in juveniles and fade to hazel as they mature.
Steppe Eagle Behavior and Habitat
Steppe eagles are a nomadic species, migrating to southern regions during the coldest months of the year. They prefer wide, open habitats and are known for their calm demeanor and minimal vocalizations, except during the breeding season.
Steppe eagles are ground nesters, building their nests on the ground, on rocky slopes, in bushes, or on telegraphic poles. Their diet is highly specialized, with a focus on ground squirrels during the summer and insects such as termites and locusts, as well as small songbirds, during the winter.
Comparison to the Black Eagle
While steppe eagles can have darker coloration, they are not the same as the Black eagle (Ictinaetus malaiensis). The Black eagle is a distinct species with the following key differences:
- Plumage: The Black eagle has completely black plumage, including a yellow bill base and yellow feet.
- Habitat: The Black eagle is found in Asia, primarily in forested and mountainous regions, while the steppe eagle prefers wide, open habitats.
- Size: The Black eagle is slightly smaller than the steppe eagle, with a length of 60 to 75 centimeters (2-3 feet) and a wingspan of 1.5 to 2 meters (4-6 feet).
In summary, while steppe eagles can have darker coloration, they are not typically black. Their plumage is dominated by bright and dark brown, often with a yellow or russet accent on the nape. The Black eagle, on the other hand, is a distinct species with all-black plumage, a yellow bill base, and yellow feet.
Reference:
– Steppe Eagle (Aquila nipalensis) – BirdLife International
– Black Eagle (Ictinaetus malaiensis) – BirdLife International
