Bateleur
Image: harrison_t (cc-by-nc)
NameBateleur
Common NameBateleur
Scientific NameTerathopius ecaudatus
FamilyAccipitridae
Wingspan (cm)181
Length (cm)62.5
Weight (g)2500
Plumage DetailsAdult Bateleurs have a mostly black body plumage, contrasting sharply with grey upperwing coverts and secondary flight feathers. The rump and very short tail are a distinctive chestnut color. The facial skin, cere, and legs are bright red.
Vocalization / CallGenerally silent, but can produce a variety of barks, hoots, and screams, particularly during breeding displays or when agitated.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatssavanna, open woodland, grassland
Conservation Statusendangered
Geographic RangeWidespread across sub-Saharan Africa, preferring open and semi-arid regions, from Senegal and Mauritania east to Ethiopia and Somalia, and south to South Africa.
Identifying Featuresvery short tail, bright red facial skin and legs, black body with grey wings, distinctive rocking flight, long broad wings
Description
The Bateleur is a striking medium-sized eagle characterized by its extremely short tail, long wings, and vibrant red facial skin and legs. It is renowned for its graceful, rocking flight as it soars for hours over open landscapes.
