Bonelli's Eagle

Bonelli's Eagle is a medium-sized bird of prey with clear markings that help to recognise it. Adult birds have dark feathers on their upper parts and lighter feathers underneath, which are marked with dark streaks. When flying, a distinctive white patch on the back can be seen. The tail has a wide dark band at the end. Young birds are reddish-brown on top with paler, less streaked feathers underneath. The eagle lives in rocky, mountainous areas and wooded hills around the Mediterranean region, parts of southern Asia, and some areas in North Africa. In Europe, it usually stays in the same area where it breeds. This bird is a strong hunter, catching medium-sized birds and mammals with skill as it moves through rough terrain. It often hunts in pairs. The number of Bonelli's Eagles has fallen in some areas, leading to concern for its future in several European countries.