Martial Eagle

Africa · birds of prey · hunters · endangered

Super strong hunter. The martial eagle is one of the largest and most powerful booted eagles in the world. It hunts mammals, birds, and reptiles by soaring high in the sky and then diving down fast to catch its prey.

Dive bomb expert. Unlike many eagles that hunt from trees or low flights, the martial eagle is one of the few eagle species that hunts mainly by stooping, which means diving at high speed from way up in the air to surprise its quarry.

African specialist. The martial eagle lives in wooded areas within the open savannas of sub-Saharan Africa. It is the only member of its own special genus called Polemaetus.

In serious trouble. Martial eagles have become endangered because farmers and game wardens hunt them, thinking they kill too much livestock and valuable game animals. However, scientists believe the eagles actually cause far less damage than people think.

Feathered legs. Like all booted eagles, the martial eagle has feathers that cover its tarsus, which is the part of its leg between the knee and the foot. This is different from many other eagle types.