Bateleur Eagle, juvenile
Wild South Africa
Kruger National Park
The Bateleur eagle is the most famous of the snake eagles. Bateleur is French for 'tightrope-walker'. This name was probably chosen because of its distinctive aerial acrobatics.
The nuptial aerial display is spectacular, with steep dives by the male at the female. She will roll on her back, presenting her claws and then roll on over to right herself as he hurtles past. There may be follow-the-leader dipping and rolling flights, including 360 degree lateral 'barrel' rolls, often accompanied by very loud slapping together of the wings. This percussion can be heard from far, as well as the accompanied very loud crowing calls.
Bateleur Eagle, juvenile
Wild South Africa
Kruger National Park
The Bateleur eagle is the most famous of the snake eagles. Bateleur is French for 'tightrope-walker'. This name was probably chosen because of its distinctive aerial acrobatics.
The nuptial aerial display is spectacular, with steep dives by the male at the female. She will roll on her back, presenting her claws and then roll on over to right herself as he hurtles past. There may be follow-the-leader dipping and rolling flights, including 360 degree lateral 'barrel' rolls, often accompanied by very loud slapping together of the wings. This percussion can be heard from far, as well as the accompanied very loud crowing calls.