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What Is the Steppe Eagle?

Alex Paul
Alex Paul

The Steppe eagle is a large bird of prey found in parts of Asia and Europe. It has mainly brown feathers and is similar in appearance to the tawny eagle, which inhabits large regions of Africa. As its name suggests, the Steppe eagle mainly lives in open areas such as steppes or grasslands. Although the bird isn’t officially endangered, its numbers have been declining in Europe for a number of years.

A large bird, the Steppe eagle can grow up to 32 inches (81 centimeters) in length. It has a wingspan that typically ranges between 65 and 79 inches (165 and 200 centimeters), and it may weigh up to 11 pounds (around 5 kilograms). The female Steppe eagle is slightly heavier and bigger than the male. Both the male and the female have brown and black coloring, along with a lighter throat that isn’t seen in similar species such as the tawny eagle.

One environment that steppe eagles can occupy is the desert.
One environment that steppe eagles can occupy is the desert.

Mainly found in central Asia and North Russia, the Steppe eagle lives in countries such as Moldova and Mongolia, along with northern parts of China. The bird once inhabited other areas of Europe, such as Romania and Ukraine, but is extinct in these regions as of 2011. The eagle often migrates to Africa in the winter months to avoid colder weather.

To hunt effectively, the Steppe eagle lives in open areas such as deserts and grasslands. This provides the bird with an open landscape in which to view and catch prey. The diet of a Steppe eagle largely consists of small mammals, such as the little ground squirrel. If no mammals are available, then the eagle will eat other birds and reptiles and will take food from other birds of prey. To supplement its diet in the winter, a Steppe eagle also will eat insects and can sometimes be found feeding in landfills.

The Steppe eagle once inhabited areas of Europe, such as Romania and Ukraine, but is extinct in these regions as of 2011.
The Steppe eagle once inhabited areas of Europe, such as Romania and Ukraine, but is extinct in these regions as of 2011.

The population of Steppe eagles in Europe is thought to be declining. In 1990, there were an estimated 20,000 breeding pairs in Europe, but the number is thought to be much smaller as of 2011. The bird isn’t officially endangered, however, and is considered a species of “least concern." It is thought that the reduction in breeding pairs is a result of destruction of the bird’s natural habitat, although the stealing of young eagles by humans also is a problem. The eagles can fetch a large price in parts of Asia and Europe, which makes them attractive to poachers but has a destructive effect on population numbers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Steppe Eagle?

Steppe eagles can be found mainly in central Asia and northern Russia.
Steppe eagles can be found mainly in central Asia and northern Russia.

The Steppe Eagle is a large bird of prey belonging to the Accipitridae family, known for its impressive wingspan of up to 2.2 meters. It inhabits open plains, or 'steppes', primarily in Eastern Europe and Central Asia, where it preys on small mammals and carrion. This eagle is recognized by its brown plumage and powerful build.

Where can you find Steppe Eagles?

Steppe Eagles are migratory birds found across an extensive range. They breed in the steppes of Russia and Kazakhstan and migrate south to winter in Africa and India. Their habitat choice is influenced by the availability of open grasslands, semi-deserts, and savannahs, which provide ample hunting opportunities.

What do Steppe Eagles eat?

Steppe Eagles have a varied diet that primarily includes small mammals like rodents, alongside birds, reptiles, and carrion. Their keen eyesight and powerful talons make them adept hunters, capable of spotting and capturing prey over the vast open landscapes they inhabit. They play a crucial role in their ecosystems as both predators and scavengers.

Are Steppe Eagles endangered?

According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the Steppe Eagle is currently classified as Endangered. Threats to their population include habitat destruction, power line collisions, and poisoning from pesticides and lead shot. Conservation efforts are crucial to prevent further decline of their numbers.

How do Steppe Eagles reproduce?

Steppe Eagles typically breed once a year, with the breeding season starting in April or May. They build large nests on the ground or atop low vegetation. Females usually lay 1 to 3 eggs, which are incubated for about 45 days. Both parents are involved in rearing the young, which fledge after about two months.

What conservation measures are in place for Steppe Eagles?

Conservation measures for Steppe Eagles include habitat protection, monitoring populations, and mitigating threats such as electrocution from power lines. Organizations are also working to raise awareness and implement legal protections. International cooperation is vital, given the eagle's migratory patterns, to ensure safe passage across their range countries.

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    • One environment that steppe eagles can occupy is the desert.
      By: george kuna
      One environment that steppe eagles can occupy is the desert.
    • The Steppe eagle once inhabited areas of Europe, such as Romania and Ukraine, but is extinct in these regions as of 2011.
      By: Ekler
      The Steppe eagle once inhabited areas of Europe, such as Romania and Ukraine, but is extinct in these regions as of 2011.
    • Steppe eagles can be found mainly in central Asia and northern Russia.
      By: Iryna Volina
      Steppe eagles can be found mainly in central Asia and northern Russia.