Least Concern

Medium-sized eagle, about 45–53 cm in length with a wingspan of 110–135 cm. Exhibits two color morphs — light morph with pale underparts and dark flight feathers, and dark morph with uniformly dark brown plumage. Both morphs have feathered (“booted”) legs.

A migratory raptor that breeds in southern Europe, North Africa, the Middle East, and Central Asia. Some populations in southern Asia are resident or partially migratory.

Northern populations migrate to sub-Saharan Africa, the Indian subcontinent, and Southeast Asia during winter. Common winter visitor in western and southern India.

Breeds from April to July. Builds large stick nests in tall trees or rocky cliffs; usually reuses nests for several years.

Wooded areas, open forests, and rocky hills across southern Europe and Asia. Prefers mosaic landscapes with both trees for nesting and open areas for hunting.

Found in forested hills, open woodlands, dry scrublands, and plains during migration and winter. Often seen soaring or gliding high while hunting.

Opportunistic predator feeding on small birds, mammals, reptiles, and large insects; occasionally scavenges. Hunts by stooping from height or ambushing prey from a perch.