Martial Eagle

The Martial Eagle can rise as long as 78-96 cm and weighs 2.2 to 6.5 kg. It is regularly observed in Sub-Saharan Africa's broad savanna. This reclusive bird has a 14–25 year life expectancy. It has white feathers with blackish-brown patches, black, brown, or gray wings, and a dark brown body. It has enormous feet, black talons, and golden eyes. It is capable of a 142 mph flight.

This animal is a dominant carnivorous eagle that consumes other water birds, monkeys, lambs, goats, antelopes, and other livestock. It is one of few eagle species known to hunt primarily from a high soar by stooping on its quarry. This hunting technique allows it to surprise and overpower larger animals, such as monkeys, lambs, goats, and even antelopes, making it a formidable and skilled hunter in the savannas of Sub-Saharan Africa.

The Martial Eagle (Polemaetus bellicosus) is known not only for its impressive size and striking appearance but also for its unique nesting behavior. Unlike many other eagles that build their nests high up in trees or on cliffs, the Martial Eagle constructs its nests on the ground. These large nests, often made of sticks and lined with soft materials, provide a secure environment for raising their young. However, this nesting behavior also makes their eggs and chicks vulnerable to predation by various ground-dwelling predators, leading to additional challenges in their already endangered status.

Due to ongoing habitat degradation and hunting, the IUCN has classed this dangerous eagle as critically endangered. Collaborative conservation initiatives that address issues like habitat degradation, illegal hunting, and human-wildlife conflicts are essential for ensuring the survival and recovery of the Martial Eagle population in the wild.