Endangered Birds

Martial Eagle

Polemaetus bellicosus

Martial Eagle preys on medium-large mammals and birds in African savannas.

Scientific name	Polemaetus bellicosus
Swahili name	Mwewe Mkali
Conservation status	Endangered
Class	Aves
Order	Accipitriformes
Family	Accipitridae
Size	Male: 3.0-4.0 kg; Female: 3.6-6.0 kg

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How to identify

Large bird, wingspan about 190-260 cm; upper body dark brown; belly white with dark brown spots; chest dark brown; head gray with short crest feathers; yellow eyes; legs feathered.

Habitat

Open woodland savannas, open grasslands, and shrublands; commonly found in valleys and hilly terrain.

Diet

Carnivorous, primarily preys on medium to large mammals (such as monkeys and young antelopes), birds, and reptiles.

When it is active

Diurnal, mainly active during the day, especially in early morning and late afternoon.

Where it lives

Distributed across sub-Saharan Africa, especially in East Africa including Kenya, Tanzania, and South Africa; Maasai Mara National Reserve is a key observation site.

How to spot it

Observe in open areas during early morning or late afternoon; watch for high soaring and hunting behavior; use telephoto lenses to capture flight details.

Photography tips

Recommended to use telephoto lenses over 400mm with high shutter speed to capture flight and hunting moments; shooting in good light reveals feather details and sharp gaze.

Threats

Habitat destruction, hunting, pesticide contamination, and poisoning through the food chain.

Similar species

Similar to the African Fish Eagle (Haliaeetus vocifer) but larger and with a steadier flight posture; distinguished from the African Hawk-Eagle (Aquila rapax) by chest spots and tail banding.

📖 how to spot the martial eagle on safari