Common name: Booted Eagle
Scientific name: Hieraaetus pennatus
Family: Accipitridae

Size:
Body length: 42–51 cm
Wingspan: 110–135 cm
Weight: 500–1000 g

Identification:
A small to medium-sized eagle with broad wings and a relatively short tail. It occurs in two main morphs:

• Light morph: pale underparts with darker flight feathers

• Dark morph: overall dark brown plumage

Both morphs show distinctive pale “landing lights” (bright patches) at the base of the wings and feathered legs (“booted”), a key feature. In flight, it appears compact with strong wingbeats and gliding phases.

Habitat:
Woodlands, forest edges, open countryside, and mountainous areas. Prefers areas with trees for nesting and open spaces for hunting.

Status in Lebanon:
Passage migrant and summer visitor. Regularly observed during migration, especially over mountains and valleys.

Diet:
Carnivorous — feeds on small birds, mammals, reptiles, and large insects.

Behavior:
A skilled and agile hunter, often soaring high before diving onto prey. Can also hunt at low altitude with fast, direct flight. Usually solitary or seen in pairs. Migrates in large numbers through the Middle East.

Conservation status:
Least Concern (IUCN Red List)