Verreaux's Eagle
Image: <a rel="nofollow" class="external text" href="https://www.flickr.com/people/93242958@N00">Derek Keats</a> from Johannesburg, South Africa (CC BY 2.0)
NameVerreaux's Eagle
Common NameVerreaux's Eagle
Scientific NameAquila verreauxii
FamilyAccipitridae
Wingspan (cm)200
Length (cm)85
Weight (g)4400
Plumage DetailsAdults are almost entirely glossy black, with a distinctive white V-shaped patch on the back and rump that is prominent in flight. The flight feathers are dark, and the cere and feet are yellow. Juveniles are browner with rufous patches on the head and underparts.
Vocalization / CallGenerally silent, but can produce a loud, far-carrying 'wheee-oh' or 'klee-klee-klee' call, especially during breeding season or when defending territory.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsmountains, rocky outcrops, savanna, shrubland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across eastern and southern Africa, from Ethiopia and Sudan south through Kenya, Tanzania, and into South Africa. Also present in isolated populations in Chad and the Arabian Peninsula.
Identifying Featureslarge size, glossy black plumage, white V-shaped patch on back/rump (adults), yellow cere and feet, long, broad wings, wedge-shaped tail
Description
A large, powerful raptor predominantly found in rocky, mountainous regions of southern and eastern Africa. Known for its specialized diet of hyraxes, this eagle is a majestic sight with its striking black plumage and impressive aerial displays.
