About the Martial Eagle
The martial eagle is a large eagle native to sub-Saharan Africa. It is the only member of the genus Polemaetus. A species of the booted eagle subfamily (Aquilinae), it has feathers over its tarsus. One of the largest and most powerful species of booted eagle, it is a fairly opportunistic predator that varies its prey selection between mammals, birds and reptiles. It is one of few eagle species known to hunt primarily from a high soar, by stooping on its quarry. This species, an inhabitant of wooded belts of otherwise open savanna, has shown a precipitous decline in the last few centuries due to a variety of factors. The martial eagle is one of the most persecuted bird species in the world.…
Text adapted from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.
ID tip
The martial eagle is a very large eagle. In total length, it can range from 78 to 96 cm (31 to 38 in), with an average of approximately 85.5 cm (33.7 in). Its total length – in comparison to its wingspan – is restricted by its relatively short tail. Nonetheless, it appears to be the sixth or seventh longest extant eagle species. The wingspan of martial eagles can range from 188 to 240 cm (6 ft 2 in to 7 ft 10 in). Wingspans of as much as 260 cm (8 ft 6 in) have been reported but may be unsubstantiated. Average wingspans have been claimed of 205 cm (6 ft 9 in) and 207. Voice: The martial eagle is a weak and infrequent vocaliser. Little vocal activity has been reported even during the breeding season. The recorded contact call between pair-members consists of the birds, usually when perched, letting out a low mellow whistle, ko-wee-oh.
Text from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.
What the Martial Eagle sounds like
Where it lives
Recorded as a rare visitor in Congo - Brazzaville, Sudan, Guinea, Mali, Somalia, Togo.
When to see it
Peak activity in November · a resident species across most of its range
Easily confused with
Little EagleHieraaetus morphnoidesThe little eagle is a medium-sized bird of prey, measuring 45–55 cm (17–21.5 inches) in length and weighing 815 g (1.8 lb), roughly the size of a peregrine falcon.
Crane HawkGeranospiza caerulescensThe crane hawk is a species of bird of prey in the family Accipitridae.
Gabar GoshawkMicronisus gabarThe gabar goshawk is polymorphic and occurs in two distinct forms which fluctuate in relative abundance across the geographic range of the species.
Learn the Martial Eagle for real
BeakBrain drills you on photos and calls until you can greet this bird by name in the field. Free to play, on any device.
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