Black eagles, also known as Ictinaetus malaiensis, are majestic birds of prey that engage in a variety of courtship rituals to attract a mate during the breeding season, which typically occurs between January and April. These displays involve both visual and auditory cues, as well as aerial acrobatics and nest building.
Visual Displays
One of the most spectacular visual displays of black eagles is the “steep dive with folded wings with swoops up in a U shape into a vertical stall.” This display is often accompanied by piercing calls and is thought to demonstrate the bird’s strength, agility, and fitness to potential mates.
In addition to this dramatic display, black eagles also engage in other visual courtship behaviors, such as:
- Chasing each other through the air
- Locking talons and tumbling through the air
- Building or refurbishing the nest together
These behaviors help to strengthen the bond between the pair and establish their territory.
Auditory Displays
Image source: Black Eagle by Mike Prince
While visual displays play a significant role in black eagle courtship, auditory cues are also important. Black eagles are known to produce piercing calls during their aerial displays, which may serve to attract potential mates and communicate their fitness.
Aerial Acrobatics
In addition to visual and auditory displays, black eagles also engage in a variety of aerial acrobatics as part of their courtship rituals. These behaviors may include:
- Chasing each other through the air
- Locking talons and tumbling through the air
- Performing aerial rolls and other maneuvers
These displays are thought to demonstrate the birds’ strength, agility, and coordination, all of which are important factors in mate selection.
Nest Building
Another important aspect of black eagle courtship is the construction or refurbishment of the nest. Both male and female birds may participate in this process, which helps to strengthen the bond between the pair and establish their territory.
Mate Selection Factors
While there is limited research on the specific mating preferences of black eagles, studies of other birds of prey suggest that size may be an important factor in mate selection. Males are generally smaller than females, and this size difference may be important in the selection process.
Additionally, the overall fitness and health of the individual bird may also play a role in mate selection, as demonstrated by the various courtship displays and aerial acrobatics.
Conclusion
In summary, black eagles attract a mate through a combination of visual and auditory displays, aerial acrobatics, and nest building. These behaviors help to establish a bond between the pair, demonstrate their fitness as mates, and secure their territory. While there is limited research on the specific mating behaviors of black eagles, studies of other birds of prey provide valuable insights into the courtship rituals of these magnificent birds.
References:
– Black Eagle – Facts, Diet, Habitat & Pictures on Animalia.bio. Retrieved from https://animalia.bio/black-eagle
– A Guide to Africa’s Black Eagle (Verreaux’s Eagle) – Owlcation. Retrieved from https://owlcation.com/stem/Birds-of-Prey-The-Verreauxs-Eagle
– Mate Selection by Bald Eagles – The Center for Conservation Biology. Retrieved from https://ccbbirds.org/2011/02/20/mate-selection-by-bald-eagles/
