| IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature): | Least Concern
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| Approximate size(adult): | A large raptor, measuring 59–70 cm in length with a wingspan of 162–185 cm. It has broad wings, a pale underside, and a dark brown upper body. The head is large with striking yellow eyes, adapted for spotting reptiles.
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| Resident/ Migrate from: | Breeds across southern Europe, North Africa, the Middle East, and central Asia. Populations in northern areas are migratory.
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| Migrate to: | Winters in sub-Saharan Africa, the Indian subcontinent, and Southeast Asia. Seen in India and Sri Lanka mainly as a winter visitor or passage migrant.
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| Breeding season: | March to July, depending on location. Builds a large stick nest on tall trees or cliffs, usually reusing the same site each year.
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| Breed in: | Southern Europe, North Africa, and western to central Asia, favoring open woodland and scrub landscapes.
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| Habitat: | Inhabits open country, dry forests, savannas, grasslands, and semi-arid regions with scattered trees. Often seen soaring high while scanning for snakes.
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| Diet: | Feeds primarily on snakes and other reptiles, occasionally taking lizards, small mammals, and birds. Hunts by hovering or gliding slowly before diving to seize prey.
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