The black eagle is a bird of prey. Like all eagles, it is in the family Accipitridae, and is the only member of the genus Ictinaetus. They soar over forests in the hilly regions of tropical and subtropical South and Southeast Asia, as well as southeastern China. They hunt mammals and birds, particularly at their nests. They are easily identified by their widely splayed and long primary "fingers", the characteristic silhouette, slow flight and yellow ceres and legs that contrast with their dark feathers.
Region
South and Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Occurs from the Indian subcontinent through the Himalayan foothills to southern China and across mainland and island Southeast Asia, including Sundaland. Prefers extensive primary and mature secondary evergreen forests, often in hilly and montane terrain. Frequently patrols along ridges, forest edges, and above river valleys, using updrafts to soar slowly over the canopy. Nests are typically placed in tall emergent trees.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 3000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The black eagle is the sole member of the genus Ictinaetus and is noted for its long, widely splayed primaries that give it a distinctive silhouette. It often soars slowly over forest canopies and is a specialized nest predator, snatching eggs and nestlings with remarkable agility. Its bright yellow cere and legs contrast with its dark plumage, aiding identification even at a distance.
Black eagle wing span
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
soaring glider with slow, deep wingbeats and widely splayed primaries
Social Behavior
Usually seen alone or in pairs, especially during the breeding season. Performs circling and display flights above forested valleys. Nests high in large trees, building substantial stick platforms. Clutches are typically one to two eggs, with both adults sharing incubation and care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Generally quiet, but gives high-pitched whistles and mewing calls, especially near the nest. Calls carry over forested slopes and are most frequent during display flights.
Plumage
Uniformly dark brown to blackish with long, narrow wings and a long tail; flight feathers can appear slightly paler, creating subtle contrast.
Diet
Primarily preys on birds and their eggs or nestlings, adeptly raiding nests by slipping along the canopy. Also takes small mammals such as squirrels and bats, and occasionally reptiles. Hunts by slow, methodical soaring and scanning, then making agile snatches with its long legs.
Preferred Environment
Forages over contiguous forest canopies, along forest edges, and above ridgelines where thermal and orographic lifts are available. Often works along valleys and slopes that concentrate nests and prey activity.
