Steppe eagles (Aquila nipalensis) and golden eagles (Aquila chrysaetos) are both large, majestic birds of prey that belong to the same genus, Aquila, within the family Accipitridae. While they share some similarities, they also have distinct differences in appearance, behavior, and distribution.
Size and Appearance
Steppe eagles have a wingspan of 6.5 to 7.5 feet (198-229 cm) and weigh between 4.4 to 11 lbs (2-5 kg). Adults have dark brown plumage with a golden tinge to the head and variable amounts of white wing panels and base of tail in intermediate plumages. Juveniles have a distinctive white base of the tail, dark terminal band, and base of flight-feathers forming a white wing panel.
Golden eagles, on the other hand, have a larger wingspan of 7 to 7.5 feet (213-229 cm) and weigh between 6.6 to 15.4 lbs (3-7 kg). Adults have dark brown plumage with a golden tinge to the head, but they lack the white wing panels and base of tail found in steppe eagles. Juveniles have a white patch at the base of the tail, but it is not as extensive as in steppe eagles.
Habitat and Distribution
Image source: Steppe Eagle by Fimb
Steppe eagles are migratory birds, traveling thousands of miles from their breeding grounds in Mongolia, Russia, Kazakhstan, and China to wintering areas in India and Africa. They are known for their nomadic nesting habits, building their nests on the ground in the wide-open Mongolian steppe.
Golden eagles, on the other hand, are not migratory, but some populations may move to lower elevations in winter. They are found in various habitats, including mountains, forests, and open areas, and they build their nests in trees or on cliff ledges.
Hunting and Prey
Both steppe eagles and golden eagles are versatile hunters, feeding on a wide variety of prey. Steppe eagles are known to prey on small mammals, birds, and reptiles, while golden eagles are capable of taking down larger prey, such as small to medium-sized mammals, birds, and even young ungulates.
| Prey | Steppe Eagle | Golden Eagle |
|---|---|---|
| Small Mammals | ✓ | ✓ |
| Birds | ✓ | ✓ |
| Reptiles | ✓ | ✓ |
| Medium-sized Mammals | ✓ | ✓ |
| Young Ungulates | – | ✓ |
Conservation Status
Both steppe eagles and golden eagles are protected species, but their conservation status varies.
Steppe eagles are listed as “Vulnerable” on the IUCN Red List, with a declining population trend. They face threats such as habitat loss, hunting, and electrocution from power lines.
Golden eagles, on the other hand, are listed as “Least Concern” on the IUCN Red List, with a stable population trend. However, they still face threats such as habitat loss, hunting, and collisions with wind turbines.
Conclusion
Steppe eagles and golden eagles are both impressive birds of prey, but they have distinct differences in their appearance, behavior, and distribution. Understanding these differences can help us appreciate the diversity of raptors found around the world and inform conservation efforts to protect these magnificent species.
References:
- Golden Eagle. (n.d.). In Wikipedia. Retrieved April 23, 2024, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Golden_eagle
- Steppe Eagle. (n.d.). In Wikipedia. Retrieved April 23, 2024, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Steppe_eagle
- Tawny Eagle or Steppe Eagle? (2017, February 22). In Safaritalk. Retrieved April 23, 2024, from https://www.safaritalk.net/topic/17168-tawny-eagle-or-steppe-eagle/
- Steppe Eagle: 10 Fascinating Insights. (n.d.). In Discover Altai. Retrieved April 23, 2024, from https://www.discoveraltai.com/steppe-eagle/
- Steppe Eagle (Aquila nipalensis) – BirdID’s Bird Guide – Nord University. (n.d.). Retrieved April 23, 2024, from https://www.birdid.no/bird/eBook.php?compareSpecieID=1772&specieID=1413
