Tawny eagles are large birds of prey known for their adaptability in feeding habits. They are generalist carnivores, consuming a wide variety of food sources, including insects, carrion, small mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians. One of the most distinctive features of tawny eagles is their scavenging behavior, making them the only type of eagle that regularly scavenges from humans.

Tawny Eagles and Carrion

The diet of tawny eagles largely consists of carrion, often fresh and originating from the kills of other raptors or mammals. They have been observed feeding on carcasses of ungulates such as antelope, with at least 30-40 different species of ungulate known to be part of their diet. Tawny eagles are also known to consume mammals up to the size of a rabbit and small to medium rodents, as well as lizards and snakes.

Opportunistic Feeding Habits

Image source: Tawny Eagle by Bernard DUPONT

Tawny eagles are opportunistic feeders, often stealing prey from other raptors and scavenging already dead prey. They are skilled pirates, regularly engaging in kleptoparasitism of other birds of prey. This behavior is observed more routinely in tawny eagles than in almost any other raptor. They have been known to kill avian prey in the air, ranging from speckled pigeons to flamingoes.

Hunting Techniques

In addition to their varied diet, tawny eagles are known for their adaptability in hunting techniques. They hunt mainly by a short dive or pounce from a perch or by stooping from up high in a soaring flight. In the Indian subcontinent, preferred hunting perch trees include Vachellia nilotica, Prosopis cineraria, and Capparis decidua. They may also forage by walking on the ground and target live prey that is on the ground, seldom targeting arboreal prey.

Scavenging Behavior

Tawny eagles are also known to consume roadkill, which provides a steady food source along roadsides. In India, scavenging tawny eagles tend to regularly occur at landfills where vultures seldom come but wintering steppe eagles may often visit. Garbage dumps are also visited in different regions, showcasing their adaptability in finding food sources.

Adaptability and Versatility

In conclusion, tawny eagles are highly adaptable birds of prey with a varied diet that includes both live prey and carrion. Their scavenging behavior and opportunistic feeding techniques make them unique among eagle species, allowing them to thrive in various habitats across the world.

References:
– Animalia.bio – Tawny Eagle
– Carnivora.net – Tawny Eagle (Aquila rapax)
– Animal Diversity – Tawny Eagle (Aquila rapax)
– Wikipedia – Tawny Eagle
– Animal Corner – Tawny Eagle