Tawny eagles, scientifically known as Aquila rapax, are large birds of prey that belong to the family Accipitridae. They are known to eat a wide variety of prey items and carrion, including roadkill, especially in areas where they are more likely to come across such food sources.

Do Tawny Eagles Eat Roadkill?

Yes, tawny eagles are known to eat roadkill. In fact, studies have shown that tawny eagles are opportunistic feeders and will scavenge on carrion, including roadkill, when available.

In a study conducted in Esigodini, tawny eagles were found to eat a wide variety of prey items and carrion, with mammals making up 36.9% of their diet, birds 51.9%, reptiles 10%, and amphibians 1.2%. Similarly, in a dietary study conducted in Lochinvar National Park, Zambia, tawny eagles were found to eat a higher proportion of birds and amphibians (61.4% & 5.5% respectively) due to differences in habitat and prey availability.

Tawny eagles are known to eat birds such as the Wattled Lapwing, helmeted guineafowl, and Red-billed Spurfowl. They are also known to steal food from other raptors in addition to catching their own prey, earning them the Afrikaans name “Roofarend”, meaning the “Robber Eagle”.

Tawny Eagles and Roadkill

Image source: Tawny Eagle by Bernard DUPONT

Tawny eagles are known to eat carrion, including roadkill, especially in areas where they are more likely to come across such food sources. In one study of roadkills in Australia, the species ranked around fourth in frequency and capacity for carcass breakdown of scavengers at roadkills, behind feral pigs, red foxes, and ravens.

Tawny eagles are opportunistic feeders and will scavenge on carrion when available. They are known to feed on a wide variety of prey items, including mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians. The proportion of each type of prey in their diet can vary depending on the availability of prey items in their habitat.

Habitat and Prey Availability

The diet of tawny eagles can vary depending on the habitat and prey availability in their environment. In areas where there is a higher abundance of birds and amphibians, tawny eagles may consume a higher proportion of these prey items. Conversely, in areas where mammals are more abundant, tawny eagles may consume a higher proportion of mammals in their diet.

Tawny eagles are known to be adaptable and can thrive in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, savannas, and even urban areas. They are also known to be opportunistic feeders and will take advantage of any available food source, including roadkill.

Conclusion

In conclusion, tawny eagles are known to eat roadkill as part of their diverse diet. They are opportunistic feeders and will scavenge on carrion when available, especially in areas where they are more likely to come across such food sources. The proportion of different prey items in their diet can vary depending on the habitat and prey availability in their environment.

References:
– Carnivora.net – Tawny Eagle (Aquila rapax)
– Wikipedia – Wedge-tailed Eagle
– Endangered Wildlife Trust – Birds of Prey
– Aladdin.st – Tawny Eagle