Martial Eagle

What is a martial eagle?

The martial eagle (Polemaetus bellicosus) is a large, powerful bird of prey native to sub-Saharan Africa, where it inhabits dry grasslands, scrublands, and woodlands. As the largest eagle in Africa, it can reach lengths of up to 96 cm (37 inches) and weights of 6.5 kg (14 pounds), with a wingspan reaching up to 2.6 meters (8.5 feet).¹

Physically, the species is characterized by a brown head and wings, with white underparts speckled with dark spots. It is an apex predator that hunts from the air or high perches, consuming prey such as hyraxes, small antelopes, poultry, and other medium-sized vertebrates.¹

Currently listed as an endangered species, the martial eagle faces significant threats from habitat loss, electrocution on power lines, and human persecution, as they are often poisoned or trapped by farmers to protect livestock.¹

Where does the martial eagle live?

The martial eagle (Polemaetus bellicosus) is native to sub-Saharan Africa. Within this region, the species inhabits a variety of environments, specifically favoring dry grassland, scrubland, and areas of scattered woodland habitats.²

These eagles are known to maintain very large territories, which often require them to venture into unprotected areas to hunt, even when they nest within protected zones. For nesting, they typically select tall trees or electrical power pylons situated between 6 and 24 meters (20 and 80 feet) above the ground.²

What does a martial eagle look like?

The martial eagle (Polemaetus bellicosus) is a large, powerful bird of prey with a distinct appearance. Adults typically reach lengths of 80 to 96 cm (32 to 37 inches) and possess a massive wingspan ranging from 1.9 to 2.6 meters (6.2 to 8.5 feet).²

Key physical characteristics include:

• Coloration: They have brown heads, throats, and wings. Their underparts are white and speckled with dark spots, while the undersides of their tail feathers feature black stripes.²¹
• Features: The species is easily identified by its large, hooked black bill and powerful, curved talons.²
• Size: As the largest eagle in Africa, they can weigh between 3.1 and 6.5 kg (6.8 and 14 pounds).²

These physical traits, particularly their large wings and sharp talons, make them highly effective apex predators capable of hunting from the air or high perches.²

What do martial eagles eat?

The martial eagle (Polemaetus bellicosus) is an apex predator that consumes a wide variety of prey, primarily focusing on medium-sized vertebrates.²

Their diet includes:

• Birds: They frequently hunt chickenlike birds and poultry.²³
• Mammals: Common prey items include hyraxes, rabbits, small antelopes, and monkeys. They are also strong enough to kill jackals and smaller livestock, such as young goats.²³
• Reptiles: They also consume snakes and lizards.²

Martial eagles hunt by spotting prey from a distance of several kilometers while in the air or perched high above the ground. They then dive at speeds reaching 230 km (143 miles) per hour, often killing their prey upon impact. If the prey survives the initial strike, the eagle uses its powerful, curved talons to finish the kill.²