The little eagle is a very small eagle endemic to Australia.
Region
Australia
Typical Environment
Widespread but patchy across mainland Australia, most common in open woodlands, grasslands, and agricultural landscapes with scattered trees. It favors edges of forests and riparian corridors where tall nest trees are available. Nests are usually placed high in eucalypts, often reused and refurbished each season. Occasional individuals occur in semi-arid interiors provided there is sufficient prey and cover.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Other
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
One of the smallest true eagles, the little eagle comes in two main color morphs—pale and dark—which can make field identification tricky. It relies heavily on soaring flight and often hunts over open country, taking rabbits, small birds, reptiles, and large insects. In some regions its numbers are affected by habitat clearing and fluctuations in rabbit populations. It is sometimes mistaken for kites or harriers, but shows a smaller head, long "fingered" wings, and a distinct tail band.
Little eagle in captivity.
Foot bones of the little eagle (bottom) and those of the Haast's eagle
A little eagle in aerial conflict with a black-shouldered kite.
Perched little eagle.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
soaring glider with slow, deep wingbeats; often holds wings in slight dihedral
Social Behavior
Generally monogamous and territorial during the breeding season. Builds a stick nest high in a tall tree, often reusing sites across years. Clutch size is typically one to two, with prolonged parental care and food provisioning by the male.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Calls are high-pitched whistling notes, often repeated in series during display flights or near the nest. Vocal activity increases during courtship and territory defense but is otherwise fairly unobtrusive.
