Description
The Short-toed eagle is a large bird of prey with a predominantly light underside and a usually dark, stocky head and upper chest. From close up, we can also see striking yellow eyes. Its habitat is an open landscape with a mosaic of forest and meadows, where it can find its main prey – lizards and snakes. It builds its nest in a tree crown, and nests once a year, between April and May.
Prevalence
The Short-toed eagle is widespread throughout the Mediterranean and eastern parts of Europe, North Africa, the Middle East and the Indian Peninsula. In Slovenia, it is found mainly in the Primorska and Notranjska regions, and elsewhere it occurs only occasionally. In our country, it is a rare breeder with a population of approximately 10 to 20 pairs.
Threat
The Short-toed eagle has experienced a sharp decline in its population in many European countries. The main reason for this is habitat change, especially the more intensive use of agricultural land, which leads to loss of habitat and food availability. The common bittern is also threatened by improperly insulated power lines and the installation of wind turbines in areas of migration routes and breeding grounds.
Interesting fact
Due to its diet, the Short-toed eagle is a distinct migrant – Slovenian birds spend the winter in sub-Saharan Africa and return to our country when their prey is available again.
