Eagle is a large, heavy-beaked, big-footed birds of prey belonging to the family Accipitridae. It may resemble a vulture in build and flight characteristics but has a fully feathered head and strong feet equipped with great curved talons. A further difference is in foraging habits: eagles subsist mainly on live prey. Like owls, many decapitate their kills. Because of their strength, eagles have been a symbol of war and imperial power since Babylonian times. Their likeness is found on Greek and Roman ruins, coins, and medals.
More than 60 species of Eagle habituate in Asia, Europe and Africa. Just 2 species, the Bald and Golden Eagles can be found in the USA and Canada, 9 in Central and South America, and 3 in Australia.
Description:- Eagles are differentiated from other birds of prey mainly by their larger size, more powerful build, and heavier head and beak. Even the smallest eagles, like the Booted Eagle have relatively longer and more evenly broad wings, and more direct, faster flight. Most eagles are larger than any other raptors apart from the vultures.
Eagles are monogamous. They mate for life and use the same nest each year. Eagles build their nests, called eyries, in tall trees or on high cliffs. Many species lay two eggs, but the older, larger chick frequently kills its younger sibling once it has hatched. The young mature slowly, reaching adult plumage in the third or fourth year. The dominant chick tends to be the female, as they are bigger than the male.
Eagles are of different colours, shapes and sizes. The great harpy eagle which ranges from southern Mexico to Brazil, is about 3.3 feet long, and bears a crest of dark feathers on its head. The New Guinea harpy eagle is about 75 cm long. The Philippine eagle is about 90 cm long having a brown above and white below, with a crest of long, narrow feathers. The harrier eagles of Europe, Asia, and Africa, are about 60 cm long. Eagles of Mediterranean areas and parts of southern Asia, is about 60 cm long, with dark above and light below and having a broad tail band, usually with a white patch on the back. The sea eagles are 3.3 feet long very large eagles. The largest sea eagle is Steller’s sea eagle of Korea, Japan, and Russia having a wingspan surpassing 6.6 feet and can weigh up to 9 kg.
Like all birds of prey, eagles have very large powerful hooked beaks for tearing flesh from their prey, strong muscular legs, and powerful talons. They also have extremely keen eyesight which enables them to spot potential prey from a very long distance.
Eagles in culture:- Eagles have been used by many nations as a national symbol. In Hindu religion, Garuda, the mount (vahanam) of Lord Vishnu is depicted as having an eagle's beak. Eagle’s likeness is found on Greek and Roman ruins, coins, and medals.
The eagle is a sacred bird in some cultures and the feathers of the eagle are central to many religious and spiritual customs, especially amongst Native Americans in the United States and native people in Canada, as well as among many of the people of Meso-America. Eagle feathers are often used in various ceremonies and are used to honor noteworthy achievements and qualities such as exceptional leadership and bravery. The Moche people of ancient Peru worshipped the animal and often depicted eagles in their art.