African Hawk-Eagle
NameAfrican Hawk-Eagle
Common NameAfrican Hawk-Eagle
Scientific NameAquila spilogaster
FamilyAccipitridae
Wingspan (cm)110
Length (cm)60
Weight (g)1450
Plumage DetailsAdults have a dark brown back, wings, and tail, with a dark brown head and bright yellow eyes. The underparts are white, heavily streaked with dark brown on the breast and flanks, becoming less streaked on the belly. Underwing coverts are white with dark streaking, and flight feathers are barred.
Vocalization / CallA series of high-pitched, ringing 'klee-klee-klee' calls, often given in flight or from a perch.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across sub-Saharan Africa, from Senegal and Gambia east to Ethiopia and Somalia, and south through East Africa to South Africa.
Identifying FeaturesDark brown upperparts, Dark head, Bright yellow eyes, White underparts with heavy dark streaking on breast and flanks, White underwing coverts with dark streaking
Description
The African Hawk-Eagle is a medium-sized raptor characterized by its dark brown upperparts and heavily streaked white underparts. It is a powerful and agile hunter, often seen perching conspicuously on trees or poles, surveying its territory for prey.
