Tawny eagles are opportunistic hunters that feed on a wide variety of prey, including mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians. While the exact amount they consume daily can vary, research suggests these impressive raptors have a diverse and substantial diet.
Tawny Eagles’ Diverse Diet
According to studies, the diet of tawny eagles consists of:
- 36.9% mammals
- 51.9% birds
- 10% reptiles
- 1.2% amphibians
Some of the specific prey items they target include:
- Mammals: Hares, dikdiks
- Birds: Francolins, bustards, hornbills
- Reptiles: Various species
- Amphibians: Various species
- Insects: Termites
Tawny eagles are also known to steal prey from other birds of prey, particularly the Bateleur.
Hunting Behavior and Prey Preferences
Image source: Tawny Eagle by Bernard DUPONT
Tawny eagles are adept hunters, using a variety of techniques to capture their prey. They often hunt from perches, targeting prey on the ground, and will sometimes even hunt in pairs during the breeding season to secure larger prey.
While they primarily focus on ground-dwelling prey, tawny eagles have been observed taking birds in the air, including species as large as flamingos. They are also known to forage by walking on the ground.
Dietary Variations
The dietary composition of tawny eagles can vary depending on the habitat and availability of prey. A study conducted in Esigodini, for example, found a higher proportion of mammals and birds in their diet, while a study in Lochinvar National Park, Zambia, revealed a greater reliance on birds and amphibians.
Chick Feeding Requirements
Tawny eagle chicks are unable to survive on carrion alone and require freshly caught prey to thrive. This means that during the breeding season, adult tawny eagles must hunt more frequently to provide for their young.
Conclusion
While the exact amount of food consumed by tawny eagles on a daily basis can vary, these opportunistic hunters are known to have a diverse and substantial diet. Their hunting behavior and prey preferences are well-adapted to their environment, allowing them to take advantage of a wide range of available resources.
References:
- Global Raptor Information Network. 2021. Species account: Tawny Eagle Aquila rapax. Downloaded from http://www.globalraptors.org on 3 Dec. 2021
- The Peregrine Fund. Tawny Eagle. https://peregrinefund.org/explore-raptors-species/eagles/tawny-eagle
- Bird watching in Africa – Tawny Eagle – aladdin.st http://www.aladdin.st/bird-watching/africa/tawny_eagle.html
- Wikipedia. Tawny eagle. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tawny_eagle
- Animalia.bio. Tawny eagle. https://animalia.bio/tawny-eagle/1000
