Steppe eagles (Aquila nipalensis) are large birds of prey that belong to the family Accipitridae. While they have a varied diet that includes small mammals, birds, reptiles, and carrion, their diet can vary significantly based on their location and the season. In this blog post, we will explore whether steppe eagles do, in fact, eat cats.

Steppe Eagles’ Diet Composition

Steppe eagles are primarily carnivorous and their diet can include:

• Small mammals
• Birds
• Reptiles
• Carrion
• Insect swarms
• Semi-altricial young of assorted animals
• Waste food sources

In their breeding grounds, steppe eagles mainly prey on small-sized mammals, with some birds and reptiles. During non-breeding times, they feed on a wider variety of food sources.

Steppe Eagles and Cats

Image source: Steppe Eagle by Fimb

While steppe eagles are known to be opportunistic predators and may occasionally prey on cats, it is not their primary diet. Cats are not a significant part of the steppe eagle’s diet, and they are more likely to target smaller prey such as small mammals, birds, and reptiles.

In some regions, steppe eagles have been observed feeding on waste food sources, including landfills, which may include the remains of domestic animals like cats. However, this is not a common occurrence and is more of an opportunistic behavior rather than a targeted prey.

Steppe Eagles’ Hunting Behavior

Steppe eagles are skilled hunters and use a variety of techniques to capture their prey. They are known to soar high in the sky, scanning the ground for potential prey, and then swoop down to capture their target with their powerful talons. They are also capable of hunting in pairs or groups, which can increase their hunting success.

During the breeding season, steppe eagles are more focused on hunting small mammals, such as ground squirrels, which are a staple part of their diet. They may also target birds and reptiles, depending on the availability of these prey in their breeding grounds.

Steppe Eagles’ Habitat and Distribution

Steppe eagles are found in various regions, including Central Asia, the Middle East, and parts of Europe and Africa. They prefer open habitats, such as grasslands, steppes, and semi-deserts, where they can easily spot and hunt their prey.

In some regions, steppe eagles may come into contact with domestic cats, but this is not a common occurrence. Their primary prey is more likely to be small wild mammals, birds, and reptiles that are native to their habitat.

Conclusion

In summary, while steppe eagles are opportunistic predators and may occasionally prey on cats, it is not a significant part of their diet. Their primary prey consists of small mammals, birds, reptiles, and carrion, with the specific composition of their diet varying based on their location and the season. Steppe eagles are skilled hunters, but they are more likely to target smaller, more abundant prey that is readily available in their natural habitat.

References:
– https://www.thainationalparks.com/species/steppe-eagle
– https://animalia.bio/steppe-eagle?custom_list=941
– https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Steppe_eagle
– https://www.linkedin.com/posts/magdy-hassan-b67a881a3_the-steppe-eagle-aquila-nipalensis-is-a-activity-7111786754474487810-ZjYY