Steppe Eagle

Not yet spotted on Fladder

The Steppe Eagle is a large, migratory raptor known for its immense migrations across continents. It is predominantly a scavenger, but also preys on small mammals and reptiles. This species faces significant population declines due to habitat loss and other threats.

Where to spot

Breeds in the steppes and semi-deserts of Eastern Europe and Central Asia. Winters widely across Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia, frequenting open plains, savannas, and cultivated areas.

How to spot

Adults are uniformly dark brown with a pale patch at the base of the primaries (flight feathers) visible from above. In flight, they have broad, paddle-shaped wings held slightly in a 'V' and a relatively short, square tail. Look for them soaring high or perched on low mounds.

When to spot

Best observed during the spring (March-April) and autumn (September-November) migration periods, when large numbers gather at migration bottlenecks like the Middle East. Present on breeding grounds during summer.

Where to spot

Breeds in the steppes and semi-deserts of Eastern Europe and Central Asia. Winters widely across Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia, frequenting open plains, savannas, and cultivated areas.

How to spot

When to spot

Credits: a3aanw

Credits: Harry-Harms

Credits: a3aanw

Steppe Eagles undertake one of the longest raptor migrations in the world, traveling thousands of kilometers between their Eurasian breeding grounds and African wintering grounds. Large aggregations can be seen at migration bottlenecks.

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