The Eastern Imperial Eagle (Aquila heliaca) is a large bird of prey that can reach impressive heights and sizes. According to the information gathered from various sources, the Eastern Imperial Eagle can grow up to 83 cm (32.7 inches) in length, with a wingspan ranging between 200-220 cm (78.7-86.6 inches) for females and 180-200 cm (70.9-78.7 inches) for males.
The Impressive Size of the Eastern Imperial Eagle
The Eastern Imperial Eagle is a relatively smaller and less bulky eagle compared to other species, but it still has a powerful build. Here are some key facts about the size of this majestic bird:
- Length: Up to 83 cm (32.7 inches)
- Wingspan: 200-220 cm (78.7-86.6 inches) for females, 180-200 cm (70.9-78.7 inches) for males
- Weight: 3,150-4,550 g (111.1-159.8 ounces) for females, 2,450-2,750 g (86.4-96.8 ounces) for males
Despite its smaller size, the Eastern Imperial Eagle has a long and thick neck, a big head and bill, a longish square-tipped tail, and strong feet. This powerful build allows the eagle to be a formidable predator, capable of taking down prey as large as foxes and young deer.
Plumage and Appearance
Image source: eastern imperial eagle By Koshy Koshy
The Eastern Imperial Eagle’s plumage is largely tar-like blackish-brown, with a well-demarcated and highly contrasting creamy to golden buff hindneck and neck sides. Adults also have bold white “epaulettes” on their shoulder braces, which are usually fairly conspicuous on perched birds.
The juvenile plumage is mostly pale tawny-buff to sandy yellow with heavy dark brown streaks and white-tipped feathers on the scapulars and forewing coverts. The flight feathers and tail on juveniles are often blackish and tipped whitish, while the undertail coverts are sometimes indistinctly paler, giving the appearance of a paler rear end.
Habitat and Behavior
The Eastern Imperial Eagle is known for being relatively less shy and bolder in the presence of humans compared to other eagle species. They tend to perch in an upright position, often on exposed tree branches or mounds, where they can survey their territory and search for prey.
These eagles are found in various habitats, including open woodlands, forest-steppe, and mountainous regions. They are primarily found in Eastern Europe and Central Asia, with their range extending from the Balkans and Ukraine to Mongolia and China.
Conservation Efforts
Despite their impressive size and power, the Eastern Imperial Eagle faces numerous threats, including habitat loss, poisoning, and electrocution on powerlines. Conservation efforts are underway to protect this magnificent species and ensure its survival for future generations to admire and study.
Organizations such as BirdLife International and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) have classified the Eastern Imperial Eagle as a “Vulnerable” species, meaning it is at risk of becoming endangered in the near future. Ongoing monitoring, habitat management, and anti-poaching measures are crucial to the species’ long-term survival.
Conclusion
The Eastern Imperial Eagle is a truly remarkable bird of prey, with its impressive size, powerful build, and unique plumage. Understanding the specific details of how tall these eagles can grow is essential for appreciating the grandeur and significance of this species. By raising awareness and supporting conservation efforts, we can ensure that the Eastern Imperial Eagle continues to soar high in the skies for generations to come.
References:
- European Raptors, “Eastern Imperial Eagle (Aquila heliaca)” (https://europeanraptors.org/eastern-imperial-eagle/)
- Wikipedia, “Golden eagle” (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Golden_eagle)
- IndiaWilds, “Eastern Imperial Eagle Attacks Desert Fox” (https://www.indiawilds.com/diary/eastern-imperial-eagle-attacks-desert-fox/)
- Wikipedia, “Eastern imperial eagle” (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eastern_imperial_eagle)
- WildArt.Works, “Eastern Imperial Eagle” (https://wildart.works/behindthelens/eastern-imperial-eagle/)
