The Eastern Imperial Eagle is a large bird of prey from the hawk family Accipitridae, one of the most majestic and recognisable eagles of Eurasia. It has dark brown, almost black plumage, contrasting with a golden-cream “cap” on the head and neck, and characteristic white “epaulettes” on the shoulders. In flight, its broad, straight wings and powerful bill make it a true master of the steppe sky. It belongs to the same group as the Golden Eagle and the Steppe Eagle.
Key facts
Lifestyle Eastern Imperial Eagles form lifelong monogamous pairs. They build their nests at the tops of tall, isolated trees in open landscapes, giving them a clear view of the surroundings. They hunt from the air, soaring at great heights and watching for prey. Their diet consists mainly of ground squirrels (susliks), hares, marmots and other small mammals, as well as birds, reptiles, and carrion. Most populations are migratory: birds from northern territories fly south in autumn and return to their breeding grounds in spring.
Conservation status The global population is small and declining due to habitat loss, poisoning (including from pesticides), human persecution, and electrocution on power lines. The species has been listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List since 1994. In Ukraine, it is legally protected and its breeding pairs are safeguarded in national parks and reserves.
Distribution The breeding range stretches from south-eastern Europe (Hungary, Slovakia, the Balkans, Ukraine) through the Caucasus and Central Asia to Mongolia and north-eastern China. The species winters in north-eastern Africa (from Egypt to Kenya), the Arabian Peninsula, the Middle East, India, and south-eastern Asia.
