The Tawny Eagle (Aquila rapax) is a large bird of prey found in sub-Saharan Africa and parts of southern Asia. These opportunistic hunters have a remarkably diverse diet, feeding on a wide variety of prey items and carrion.
The Tawny Eagle’s Dietary Composition
According to dietary records from Esigodini, the diet of the Tawny Eagle consists of:
- 36.9% Mammals
- 51.9% Birds
- 10% Reptiles
- 1.2% Amphibians
However, it’s important to note that Tawny Eagle chicks are unable to survive on carrion alone and require freshly caught prey for sustenance.
Hunting Tactics and Prey Preferences
Image source: Tawny Eagle by Bernard DUPONT
Tawny Eagles employ various hunting strategies to capture their prey, including:
- Hunting from a perch
- Chasing prey on the wing
- Grabbing food from the ground on foot
Their prey includes a diverse range of animals:
- Mammals: Hares, Dikdiks
- Birds: Francolins, Bustards, Hornbills
- Reptiles
- Fish
- Amphibians
- Insects (including Termites)
Tawny Eagles are also known to be adept at pirating (stealing) prey from other birds of prey, particularly the Bateleur.
Habitat and Dietary Variations
A similar dietary study conducted in Lochinvar National Park, Zambia, revealed a higher proportion of birds (61.4%) and amphibians (5.5%) in the Tawny Eagle’s diet. This variation in diet between the two study sites is likely due to differences in habitat and prey availability.
Opportunistic Feeding Behavior
Tawny Eagles are highly opportunistic hunters, willing to feed on just about anything they can catch. They have been observed hunting near grass fires, capturing small animals as they flee the smoke and flames.
Additionally, Tawny Eagles have been known to exhibit some nocturnal behavior, with reports of them drinking and bathing at night. However, concrete evidence of their nocturnal subsistence activities is still lacking.
Conclusion
The Tawny Eagle’s diet is a testament to its adaptability and opportunistic nature. These birds of prey have the ability to thrive on a diverse range of prey, from small mammals and birds to reptiles, amphibians, and even insects. Their hunting tactics and dietary preferences vary depending on the habitat and availability of prey, showcasing the Tawny Eagle’s remarkable versatility as a predator.
