In Israel, there are several species of eagles that can be found. These majestic birds of prey are known for their strong and powerful flight, as well as their impressive hunting skills. Let’s take a closer look at the different types of eagles that can be found in Israel:
1. Griffon Vulture: The Griffon Vulture is a large bird with a wingspan of up to 9 feet. They have a distinctive white plumage and a hooked beak. These vultures are often seen soaring high in the sky, searching for carrion to feed on.
2. Black Vulture: The Black Vulture is another species of vulture that can be found in Israel. They have a black plumage and a wingspan of around 6 feet. Black Vultures are scavengers and primarily feed on carrion.
3. Lappet-faced Vulture: The Lappet-faced Vulture is a rare species in Israel. They have a large wingspan and are easily recognized by the fleshy folds of skin, or lappets, on their neck. These vultures are known for their powerful beaks, which enable them to tear through tough hides.
4. Egyptian Vulture: The Egyptian Vulture is a medium-sized bird with a white plumage and a distinctive yellow face. They have a relatively small wingspan compared to other vultures. Egyptian Vultures are known for their unique feeding behavior, which includes using rocks to break open eggs.
Moving on from vultures, we have several species of eagles that can also be found in Israel:
5. Osprey: The Osprey is a large bird of prey with a wingspan of up to 6 feet. They have a brown and white plumage and can often be seen near bodies of water, as they primarily feed on fish.
6. White-tailed Eagle: The White-tailed Eagle is one of the largest eagles in the world, with a wingspan that can reach up to 8 feet. They have a brown plumage and a distinctive white tail. These eagles are known to inhabit coastal areas and feed on fish.
7. Imperial Eagle: The Imperial Eagle is a large and powerful bird with a brown plumage and a wingspan of around 6 feet. They are known for their impressive hunting skills and often prey on small mammals and birds.
8. Lesser Spotted Eagle: The Lesser Spotted Eagle is a medium-sized eagle with a wingspan of up to 5 feet. They have a brown plumage with white spots. These eagles are migratory and can be seen in Israel during the spring and autumn seasons.
9. Greater Spotted Eagle: The Greater Spotted Eagle is a larger species compared to the Lesser Spotted Eagle, with a wingspan of around 6 feet. They have a brown plumage and are known for their distinctive white spots on the wings.
10. Steppe Eagle: The Steppe Eagle is a large eagle with a wingspan of up to 7 feet. They have a brown plumage and can be seen in Israel during their migration. Steppe Eagles primarily feed on small mammals and birds.
11. Booted Eagle: The Booted Eagle is a small to medium-sized eagle with a wingspan of around 4 feet. They have a brown plumage and are known for their distinctive feathered legs, which resemble boots. Booted Eagles are often seen soaring in the sky, searching for prey.
12. Bonelli’s Eagle: The Bonelli’s Eagle is a medium-sized eagle with a wingspan of around 5 feet. They have a brown plumage and are known for their agile flight and hunting skills. Bonelli’s Eagles primarily feed on small mammals and birds.
In addition to these eagles, there are other species of birds of prey that can be found in Israel, such as the Black Kite, Hen Harrier, Montagu’s Harrier, and many more.
Personally, I have had the opportunity to witness the impressive flight of the Steppe Eagle during their migration through Israel. It was a breathtaking sight to see these powerful birds soaring high in the sky, riding the thermals and effortlessly covering vast distances. Their presence added a sense of majesty to the landscape and reminded me of the incredible diversity of bird species that call Israel their home or pass through during their migratory journeys.
Israel is home to a diverse range of eagle species, each with its own unique characteristics and hunting behaviors. The presence of these magnificent birds of prey adds to the natural beauty and biodiversity of the country’s landscapes. Whether soaring high in the sky or perched on a branch, these eagles are a true testament to the wonders of nature.