The Steppe Eagle is a large bird of prey known for its robust build, broad wings, and dark brown-gray plumage.Its wingspan can reach up to 2.1 meters, making it well-suited for open landscapes. The Steppe Eagle inhabits dry, open areas such as steppes, grasslands, and semi-deserts across Central Asia, the Middle East, and parts of Eastern Europe. During winter, it migrates to Africa and South Asia, traveling vast distances to find food in warmer climates. Its diet primarily includes small mammals like rodents but also consists of birds, reptiles, and occasionally carrion. It hunts by flying low or watching from a perch, swiftly attacking its prey. Steppe Eagles are territorial and solitary outside the breeding season. They construct large stick nests in trees or on cliffs, often reusing them annually. Females typically lay two eggs, but sibling competition usually results in only one chick surviving. The species faces threats such as habitat loss, illegal hunting, and electrocution from power lines. However, it plays a vital role in its ecosystem as both predator and scavenger. Conservation efforts are crucial to ensuring the survival of this majestic bird.
Ronald Pol (1977) is a nature photographer from Deventer, the Netherlands. It was during a trip to Africa that his passion for nature photography started. The main focus is on the photography of animals (portraits and behaviour), but a variety of other subjects are photographed as well... Read more…
Germany
Germany
Germany
Germany
Netherlands
Germany
Germany
Netherlands
Netherlands
Netherlands
Germany
Netherlands