When I saw one of these amazing birds for the first time I knew I just had to get a shot. Wow, how does it even fly with such a different shape. But, the Bateleur Eagle doesn't start life looking quite the same.
Juveniles have much longer tail and wing feathers than their parents. As they become more adept at flight the feathers become shorter with each moult.
When fully grown they are easily distinguished by the short tail and unique shape and colouring whilst in flight. Their behaviour is somewhat different than other raptors too. They are adept at low altitude soaring and, with very keen eyesight, can find prey from lower heights and quickly swoop in for a quick meal.
As they fly they tip their wings from side to side, almost as if trying to keep their balance, but rest assured they are amazing acrobats and often will swoop in on another eagle and steal their catch in mid air.
Just another amazing creature from Africa :-)
#africa
#botswana
#trekabout
#bateleur
#Terathopiusecaudatus
#markraynerphoto
#eagle
