Bateleur
NameBateleur
Common NameBateleur
Scientific NameTerathopius ecaudatus
FamilyAccipitridae
Wingspan (cm)178
Length (cm)62.5
Weight (g)2500
Plumage DetailsJuveniles are predominantly dull brown with pale underwings and a pale cere. Adults have a striking black body, chestnut back and rump, grey shoulders, and white underwing coverts, with a bright red face, cere, and legs.
Vocalization / CallGenerally silent, but can produce a variety of barks, hoots, and screams, especially during breeding displays or when disturbed.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatssavanna, grassland, woodland
Conservation Statusendangered
Geographic RangeSub-Saharan Africa, from Senegal and Mauritania east to Somalia, and south to South Africa.
Identifying Featuresvery short tail, long broad wings, distinctive flight pattern (rocking side-to-side), red facial skin and legs (adults), brown plumage (juveniles)
Description
The Bateleur is a medium-sized, distinctive eagle known for its very short tail and long, broad wings, giving it a unique silhouette in flight. It spends much of its day soaring and gliding, often rocking from side to side. Juveniles, like the one pictured, are mostly brown.
