A formidable raptor distinguished by its mastery of the skies and specialization in hunting serpents. Inhabiting an extensive range stretching across parts of Africa, Europe, and Asia, this eagle has adapted to various climates and terrains, showcasing a remarkable ecological versatility.
Characterized by broad wings and a relatively short toe that aids in grasping slippery prey, the short-toed snake eagle prefers warm, arid, rocky, or sandy regions where its main prey, snakes, are abundant. These areas often include sunny uplands and rugged landscapes, which offer optimal conditions for thermal soaring—a flight technique that allows the eagle to glide effortlessly at great heights while expending minimal energy.
The woodland, a crucial habitat for nesting, offers the isolation and security needed for rearing their young. The short-toed snake eagle’s nest, typically constructed high in a tree, provides a vantage point from which to survey the surroundings for both threats and potential prey.
Courtship displays of this species are less documented but are believed to include aerial acrobatics, where the pair may engage in intricate flights to strengthen their bond and synchronize their breeding efforts. Outside of the breeding season, these eagles are mostly silent, reserving their vocal expressions for courtship and territorial defense periods.
The reproductive strategy of the short-toed snake eagle is characterized by laying a single egg per breeding season. Both parents are highly invested in caring for their offspring, with duties that include incubation, protection from predators, and provision of food. This intensive parental care is essential, given the vulnerability of their solitary chick during the early stages of life.
The diet of the short-toed snake eagle is primarily composed of reptiles, with a strong preference for snakes, including venomous species. Their keen eyesight allows them to detect the slightest movements from high above, enabling them to dive down and capture their prey with remarkable precision.
Distribution
Afghanistan
Albania
Algeria
Andorra
Armenia
Austria
Azerbaijan
Bahrain
Bangladesh
Belarus
Belgium
Benin
Bhutan
Bosnia And Herz.
Bulgaria
Burkina Faso
Cambodia
Cameroon
Central Af. Rep.
Chad
China
Croatia
Cyprus
Czechia
Côte D’ivoire
DR Congo (Kinshasa)
Denmark
Djibouti
East Timor
Egypt
Estonia
Ethiopia
Finland
France
Gambia
Georgia
Germany
Ghana
Gibraltar
Greece
Guinea-Bissau
Guinea
Hungary
India
Indonesia
Iran
Iraq
Israel
Italy
Jordan
Kazakhstan
Kenya
Kuwait
Kyrgyzstan
Laos
Latvia
Lebanon
Lesotho
Liberia
Libya
Lithuania
Luxembourg
Malaysia
Mali
Malta
Mauritania
Moldova
Mongolia
Montenegro
Morocco
Myanmar
Nepal
Netherlands
Niger
Nigeria
North Macedonia
Norway
Oman
Pakistan
Poland
Portugal
Qatar
Romania
Russia
Russia
Saudi Arabia
Senegal
Serbia
Sierra Leone
Singapore
Slovakia
Slovenia
Somalia
South Sudan
Spain
Spain
Sudan
Sweden
Switzerland
Syria
Tajikistan
Tanzania
Thailand
Togo
Tunisia
Turkey
Turkmenistan
UAE
Uganda
Ukraine
United Kingdom
Uzbekistan
Vietnam
Yemen
ZambiaAnything we've missed?
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Terrestrial / Aquatic
Altricial / Precocial
Polygamous / Monogamous
Dimorphic (size) / Monomorphic
Active: Diurnal / Nocturnal
Social behavior: Solitary / Pack / Herd
Diet: Carnivore / Herbivore / Omnivore / Piscivorous / Insectivore
Migratory: Yes / No
Domesticated: Yes / No
Dangerous: Yes / No
