Steppe Eagle

The Steppe Eagle is a large migratory bird of prey belonging to the subfamily Aquilinae, commonly referred to as the “booted eagles.” Recently, the western part of Rajasthan has been identified as an important wintering stronghold for this species, highlighting India’s role in its survival.

Appearance

The Steppe Eagle is a large, bulky, and powerful-looking raptor. It is predominantly dark brown in colour, with a long, thick neck and a relatively small head, giving it a distinctive silhouette in flight.

Habitat

This species is highly adaptable and occupies a wide range of open landscapes. Its preferred habitats include steppe, deserts, semi-deserts, grasslands, savannas, agricultural fields, and open woodlands.

Distribution and Migration

The Steppe Eagle is found across Europe, Asia, and Africa. It mainly breeds in Central Asian countries such as Kazakhstan, Russia, and Mongolia. During winter, it undertakes a long southward migration, with regions like Rajasthan becoming key seasonal habitats.

Behaviour and Feeding

The Steppe Eagle is a carnivorous bird that feeds mainly on small mammals, along with birds and reptiles. It is a specialized predator of ground squirrels in its breeding areas. Notably, it is the only eagle species that primarily nests on the ground, which makes its nests more vulnerable.

Threats

The species faces several serious threats, including habitat loss, human persecution, wildfires, and the trampling or predation of chicks by livestock. These factors have significantly contributed to its declining population.

Conservation Status

According to the IUCN Red List, the Steppe Eagle is classified as Endangered, making conservation efforts crucial for its survival.