Eagle, Short-toed Snake

Conservation status:

Rare Passage Migrant

Description:

Large long-winged Eagle with very pale underparts, square-cut tail with three evenly spaced dark bands and a broad head. Whitish underparts variably spotted and barred, some nearly all whitish, others with contrasting dark head and upper breast. Staring bright yellow eyes and broad head, flattened on top give it a rather owl-like appearance. Flies with slow, flexible wing-beats, soars on flat or slightly lifted wings and hovers regularly. Differs from Osprey with broader wings, lack of carpal patch and different flight.