The African hawk-eagle is a large bird of prey. Like all eagles, it belongs to the family Accipitridae. This species' feathered legs mark it as a member of the Aquilinae subfamily. The African hawk-eagle breeds in tropical Sub-Saharan Africa. It is a bird of assorted woodland, including both savanna and hilly areas, but they tend to occur in woodland that is typically dry. The species tends to be rare in areas where their preferred habitat type is absent. This species builds a stick nest of around 1 m (3.3 ft) across in a large tree. The clutch is generally one or two eggs. The African hawk-eagle is powerfully built and hunts small to medium-sized mammals and birds predominantly, occasionally taking reptiles and other prey as well. The call is a shrill kluu-kluu-kluu. The African hawk-eagle is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN, but a study in 2024 showed that this species is experiencing a severe population decline of ~91%, suggesting it be listed as critically endangered.
Region
Sub-Saharan Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs widely but patchily from West Africa across the Sahel and Sudanian zones to East and southern Africa. Prefers dry to semi-arid woodland, savanna with scattered trees, and hilly country with patches of forest. Often found near edges, riparian corridors, and mosaics of open and wooded habitats that support abundant avian and small mammal prey. It generally avoids dense rainforest and treeless deserts. Nests are placed high in large trees, sometimes on cliffs where trees are scarce.
Altitude Range
0–3000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The African hawk-eagle is a powerful woodland raptor with fully feathered legs, a hallmark of the Aquilinae. Pairs often hunt cooperatively, flushing prey for one another and delivering spectacular high-speed stoops. It can be confused with Bonelli’s eagle, but shows bolder white underparts with heavy dark blotching. Although historically considered common in suitable habitats, recent studies indicate sharp declines in parts of its range.
Early mature subadult African hawk-eagle, back not fully darkened and slightly mottled ventrally
A juvenile African hawk-eagle. Before they attain the pied appearance of adults, juveniles of the species appear as a somewhat nondescript rufous raptor.
A pair in Limpopo shown in the typical dry, warm but lush woodland habitat preferred by the species
Gamebirds such as helmeted guineafowl are a favored part of the African hawk-eagle's diet.
An African hawk-eagle surveys its surroundings. This species tends to be aggressive towards larger raptors.
Aquila spilogaster egg
A likely pair in Damaraland, Namibia. African hawk-eagles appear to spend much time in pairs.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
powerful flier with soaring and rapid stoops
Social Behavior
Typically found as territorial pairs that maintain large home ranges. Builds a substantial stick nest high in a tree; clutch usually one or two eggs. Both adults share incubation and provisioning, and young remain dependent for weeks after fledging.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations include a sharp, shrill kluu-kluu-kluu, especially around the nest. Generally quiet away from breeding sites, but may call during aerial displays and territory defense.
