Juvenile Booted Eagle (Spain)
The juvenile booted eagle (*Hieraaetus pennatus*) is a medium-sized bird of prey known for its agile flight and striking plumage. Unlike adults, which display more defined coloration patterns, juveniles typically have a darker, more uniform brown appearance with less contrast on their underparts. Their feathers are softer and often show pale streaks or mottling. Found across parts of Europe, Asia, and North Africa, juvenile booted eagles are often seen during migration as they travel long distances to their wintering grounds in sub-Saharan Africa. Despite their youth, they already demonstrate impressive hunting skills, preying on small mammals, birds, and reptiles. As they mature, their plumage gradually changes, and they begin to adopt the characteristic light or dark morphs seen in adults.
Juvenile Booted Eagle (Spain)
The juvenile booted eagle (*Hieraaetus pennatus*) is a medium-sized bird of prey known for its agile flight and striking plumage. Unlike adults, which display more defined coloration patterns, juveniles typically have a darker, more uniform brown appearance with less contrast on their underparts. Their feathers are softer and often show pale streaks or mottling. Found across parts of Europe, Asia, and North Africa, juvenile booted eagles are often seen during migration as they travel long distances to their wintering grounds in sub-Saharan Africa. Despite their youth, they already demonstrate impressive hunting skills, preying on small mammals, birds, and reptiles. As they mature, their plumage gradually changes, and they begin to adopt the characteristic light or dark morphs seen in adults.