Eastern imperial eagles are opportunistic predators that feed on a variety of prey, with small to medium-sized mammals being the most frequently selected. These birds can capture prey in water or from the edge of waterways, and they may even become waterlogged during the process. The frequency of their feeding can vary depending on the availability and abundance of prey in their habitat.

Frequency of Feeding

The frequency of feeding for eastern imperial eagles can vary depending on several factors:

1. Prey Availability: These birds are opportunistic predators, and their feeding frequency is largely dependent on the availability and abundance of prey in their habitat. When prey is plentiful, they may feed more frequently.

2. Seasonal Variations: During the winter months, when prey may be scarce, eastern imperial eagles may rely more heavily on carrion, making up 53.7% of their diet in the wintering population of Jordan. In some parts of their winter range, birds may become the primary food source, especially the young or fledglings of various medium-sized to larger birds.

3. Hunting Strategies: Eastern imperial eagles employ different hunting strategies, such as capturing prey from a moderately low perch or making a longer dive onto prey from a low soaring flight. The success of these hunting strategies can also influence their feeding frequency.

Prey Composition

Image source: eastern imperial eagle By Koshy Koshy

Eastern imperial eagles have a diverse diet that includes:

• Small to medium-sized mammals, such as hares and various rodents
• Insectivores
• Birds, especially the young or fledglings
• Reptiles
• Fish
• Rarely, insects

The specific composition of their diet can vary depending on the region and the availability of different prey species.

Hunting Behavior

Eastern imperial eagles are known for their hunting behavior:

1. Perch Hunting: These birds often hunt from a moderately low perch, watching for prey at length before making a short stoop or dive to the ground once prey is spotted.

2. Aerial Hunting: Alternatively, they may make a longer dive onto prey from a low soaring flight, often using any vegetation available to obscure their approach.

3. Waterlogging: Eastern imperial eagles can become waterlogged when capturing prey in water or from the edge of waterways.

4. Kleptoparasitism: Occasionally, this species will pirate foods from other eagles and other birds of prey, especially during the winter months.

5. Tandem Hunting: Eastern imperial eagles have been observed hunting in pairs, a behavior known as tandem hunting.

Feeding Habits

Eastern imperial eagles are almost exclusively ground-based predators, capturing their prey on the ground. However, they are known to capture prey in water or from the edge of waterways, and they may even become waterlogged during the process.

Conclusion

In summary, eastern imperial eagles are opportunistic predators that feed on a wide variety of prey, with small to medium-sized mammals being the most frequently selected. The frequency of their feeding can vary depending on the availability and abundance of prey in their habitat, as well as seasonal variations and their hunting strategies. These birds employ a range of hunting behaviors, including perch hunting, aerial hunting, and even tandem hunting, to capture their prey.

References:
– Animalia.bio – Spanish Imperial Eagle
– Animal Diversity Web – Eastern Imperial Eagle
– Wikipedia – Eastern Imperial Eagle
– Thai National Parks – Eastern Imperial Eagle
– Animalia.bio – Eastern Imperial Eagle