Bateleur
Image: kokoreva46452 (cc-by-nc)
NameBateleur
Common NameBateleur
Scientific NameTerathopius ecaudatus
FamilyAccipitridae
Wingspan (cm)186
Length (cm)60
Weight (g)2450
Plumage DetailsAdult Bateleurs have a predominantly black body plumage, a chestnut-brown mantle and back, and greyish-white underwings with black flight feathers. The most striking features are the bright red facial skin, cere, and legs. Juveniles are duller brown with greyish facial skin.
Vocalization / CallBateleurs are generally silent, but may emit a loud 'kau-kau-kau' or 'ko-ko-ko' call, especially during display flights or when disturbed. They also produce a variety of barks and hoots.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatssavanna, grassland, woodland, shrubland
Conservation Statusendangered
Geographic RangeFound across sub-Saharan Africa, from Senegal and Mauritania east to Somalia, and south to South Africa. Also present in parts of the Arabian Peninsula.
Identifying Featuresextremely short tail, bright red facial skin, cere, and legs (adults), black body with chestnut mantle, greyish-white underwings with black flight feathers, distinctive rocking flight pattern
Description
The Bateleur is a striking medium-sized eagle known for its distinctive short tail and vibrant facial skin. It spends much of its day soaring effortlessly on broad wings, often tilting from side to side, a behavior that gives it its name, meaning 'acrobat' or 'street performer' in French. The birds in the image appear to be sunning themselves, a common behavior for raptors.
