The Indian spotted eagle is a large bird of prey native to South Asia. Like all typical eagles, it belongs to the family Accipitridae. The typical eagles are often united with the buteos, sea eagles and other more heavy-set Accipitridae, but more recently it appears as if they are less distinct from the more slender accipitrine hawks.
Region
South Asia
Typical Environment
Primarily found across northern and central India, extending into the Terai of Nepal, Bangladesh, and parts of Pakistan. It favors lowland landscapes with a mosaic of open fields, riverine woodland, and wetlands. Nests are usually placed in tall trees near water or agricultural edges. It avoids dense forest interiors and very arid deserts, and is scarce in high mountains.
Altitude Range
0–1500 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Indian spotted eagle is a medium-large raptor native to the Indian subcontinent and was long confused with the Lesser and Greater Spotted Eagles. It is distinguished by a long gape line that extends beneath the eye and a paler nape. Formerly placed in Aquila, it is now in the genus Clanga. Habitat loss, wetland drainage, and powerline electrocution are key threats.
Indian Spotted Eagle
Underwing pattern
Illustration of an adult and a juvenile by Joseph Smit (1875)
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
soaring glider
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, especially in the breeding season. Pairs build large stick nests high in trees near wetlands or agricultural areas and typically lay one to two eggs. They exhibit aerial displays over territories and show strong site fidelity across years.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Generally quiet, giving harsh, whistled or barking calls near the nest or during displays. Vocalizations are most frequent in the breeding season and carry well over open country.
Plumage
Mostly medium to dark brown with slightly paler flight feathers and a contrasting paler nape; juveniles may show faint spotting on upperwing coverts. Underwings show broad, slightly paler panels with darker flight feathers and fingered primaries.
Diet
Takes small to medium vertebrates including rodents, lizards, snakes, frogs, and small birds; also scavenges carrion and occasionally large insects. Hunts from exposed perches or by quartering low over open ground and wetland edges. Will exploit agricultural landscapes where prey is abundant.
Preferred Environment
Often hunts along field margins, canal banks, river floodplains, and the edges of marshes. Uses tall trees, pylons, or other vantage points for scanning and short stoops.
