Little Eagle
NameLittle Eagle
Common NameLittle Eagle
Scientific NameHieraaetus morphnoides
FamilyAccipitridae
Wingspan (cm)120
Length (cm)50
Weight (g)700
Plumage DetailsThis individual appears to be a light morph, featuring a rufous-brown head and underparts, contrasting with white underwing coverts and flight feathers that have dark barring and dark primary tips. The tail is grey with fine dark bars. Dark morphs are also common, being uniformly dark brown.
Vocalization / CallA high-pitched, whistling call, often described as a series of 'wee-whee-wee' or 'kew-kew-kew' notes, typically given in flight.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across mainland Australia and Tasmania, also found in southern New Guinea.
Identifying Featuressmall size for an eagle, broad wings, short tail, distinct underwing pattern (light morph), two color morphs (light and dark), soaring flight
Description
The Little Eagle is a relatively small but powerful raptor, characterized by its broad wings and short tail. It is an agile hunter, often seen soaring high in the sky, preying on small to medium-sized animals.
