Common name: Steppe Eagle
Scientific name: Aquila nipalensis
Family: Accipitridae

Size:

• Length: 60–80 cm

• Wingspan: 165–215 cm

• Weight: 2.0–4.9 kg

Identification:
A large, broad-winged eagle with long wings and a relatively small head. Adults are dark brown overall, often showing a paler nape and distinct pale patches at the base of the wings (“landing lights”). Juveniles are paler with more contrasting wing markings and a lighter trailing edge to the wings.

Habitat:
Open landscapes including deserts, semi-deserts, grasslands, and plains. Often seen soaring over open ground or resting on the ground or low perches.

Status in the UAE:
Winter visitor and passage migrant, regularly recorded during migration seasons.

Diet:
Opportunistic feeder — scavenges carrion and hunts small mammals, birds, and reptiles.

Behavior:
Powerful soarer, often seen circling on thermals. Frequently feeds on carrion and gathers at carcasses.

Conservation status:
Endangered (IUCN Red List)