Birds I Love - The Wahlbergs Eagle

Discovering the Wahlberg's Eagle

Nestled within the vast expanse of sub-Saharan Africa, the Wahlberg's eagle (Hieraaetus wahlbergi) graces the woodlands and savannas with its seasonal presence. This striking bird of prey, named after the esteemed Swedish naturalist Johan August Wahlberg, belongs to the illustrious Accipitridae family, which includes all eagles.

Aerial Elegance

In flight, the Wahlberg's eagle displays a captivating cross-shaped silhouette, boasting straight-edged wings and a square tail. This medium-sized raptor exhibits sexual dimorphism, with both males and females sharing similar characteristics.

Measuring approximately 53 to 61 centimeters in length, with a wingspan ranging from 130 to 146 centimeters, and weighing between 437 to 845 grams for males and 670 to 1,400 grams for females on average. Its distinctive features include a small crest on its head and yellow legs.

The plumage of the Wahlberg's eagle is strikingly variable, often dark brown with dark-streaked grey undersides on the flight feathers and a barred grey undertail. Light and dark plumage phases also exist, with a pale variant being less common, showcasing lighter brown tones with whitish undertails and flight feather undersides.

Range and Habitat

This majestic eagle has claimed its territory across the heart of Africa, from central Chad to the northeastern coast of South Africa. Within this vast range, Wahlberg's eagles typically remain between sea level and 1,800 meters, although they have been documented at an impressive altitude of 2,800 meters in Ethiopia.

These remarkable birds are known for their incredible migratory journeys. In a stunning example, a female Wahlberg's eagle was tracked over nine months, covering a staggering 8,800 kilometers from northern Namibia to Chad and back. The eagle's range between breeding in the south and non-breeding areas in the north spanned 3,520 kilometers, and it traveled over 700 kilometers due north in just five days after leaving its breeding grounds.

Diverse Diet and Nesting Habits

Wahlberg's eagles primarily prey upon birds, including other raptors such as the Gabar goshawk and barn owl. They also consume reptiles, various lizards and snakes, as well as a few small mammals like tree squirrels, mongooses, and hares. In addition, these eagles have been observed dining on invertebrates such as termites, grasshoppers, and beetles.

Breeding mainly occurs in southern Africa during the October to February period, coinciding with the wet season when food becomes more readily available. These eagles are known for their complex and spectacular aerial courtship displays.

Wahlberg's eagles are monogamous and form enduring pair bonds. They are territorial and solitary nesters, often reusing the same nest for multiple years. The female takes on the crucial role of incubation, while the male provides food for the family.

During the incubation period, which spans around 44 days, the female diligently keeps the egg warm and secure. Meanwhile, the male takes on the role of the provider, hunting for food to sustain the family. The nestling remains in the nest for approximately 10 weeks before it takes its first flight. Interestingly, in the rare event that a female lays two eggs and both hatch, only one nestling survives, as the older, stronger one tends to eliminate the weaker sibling.

Conservation Efforts

The Peregrine Fund plays a pivotal role in monitoring Wahlberg's eagle populations in East and southern African savannas. Biologists employ GPS tracking to follow their movements to non-breeding areas in Central Africa, shedding light on their migratory patterns.

Additionally, in Kenya, The Peregrine Fund's scientists strive to protect all raptors and their habitats while working to curb the practice of poisoning carcasses, which poses a threat not only to large predators but also to vultures, eagles, and other scavenging birds.

Through scientific research, habitat conservation, education, and community development initiatives, The Peregrine Fund contributes to the preservation of birds of prey worldwide. Their avian research library provides invaluable resources for scientists, and the Global Raptor Impact Network supports raptor researchers and citizen scientists in their contributions to global raptor conservation.

Habitat and Behavior

Wahlberg's Eagles exhibit a preference for wooded savannas, riparian habitats, cultivated areas, and thornbush, with a proclivity for flat terrain rather than hilly or mountainous regions. These birds are often observed soaring high alongside other raptors like Black Kites and Tawny Eagles, especially after heavy rains.

Conclusion

Wahlberg's eagle is a captivating bird of prey that graces the African skies with its elegant presence. While it is not currently classified as endangered, it faces localized threats that warrant vigilance and conservation efforts. With continued research and protection, we can ensure the enduring splendor of this remarkable raptor in the wilds of Africa.

About The Author

Kyle Grobler is a passionate environmentalist and esteemed field guide from Potchefstroom. With an unparalleled love for nature, he boasts a vast collection of over 40,000 photos, illustrating his particular affinity for birds.

Known by many as the embodiment of a true bushman, Kyle has ventured through various South African game reserves and frequently explores the Vaal River's hidden treasures. As a new contributor to the Potch Gazette's environmental page, readers can anticipate immersive tales of Potchefstroom's natural wonders through Kyle's expert lens.

To see more from Kyle and his bush experiences you can also view his Youtube Channel here: Kyle Grobler Photography

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