+263 772 354 780 | +263 772 301 871 
Wahlberg’s Eagles
Wahlberg’s Eagles are migratory birds of prey, traveling to sub-Saharan Africa from their breeding grounds in the north to spend the non-breeding season. Named after the Swedish naturalist Johan August Wahlberg, these eagles exhibit remarkable adaptability to different environments and prey types, which has enabled them to thrive across a wide range. Despite being widespread, they are often elusive and prefer to remain high in the canopy or soaring in the sky, making them a less common sight. Their migration patterns and breeding behaviors are closely tied to the seasonal rains, indicating their adaptability to the dynamic African ecosystems. Conservation efforts are essential to ensure their habitats remain intact, supporting not only Wahlberg’s Eagles but also the rich biodiversity that characterizes their environments.
Scientific Name: Hieraaetus wahlbergi
- Habitat: Wahlberg’s Eagles are found in a wide range of habitats across sub-Saharan Africa, including savannas, woodlands, and forests. They prefer areas with some tree cover for nesting and roosting.
- Diet: They have a varied diet that includes small mammals, birds, reptiles, and large insects. They are versatile hunters and may change their prey preferences based on availability.
- Physical Characteristics: A medium-sized eagle with a length of approximately 53-61 cm (21-24 inches) and a wingspan of 130-160 cm (51-63 inches). They have a slim build, with adults showing a range of color morphs from pale to dark brown. The bird is distinguished by its rounded wings and a long, squared-off tail in flight.
- Lifespan: Wahlberg’s Eagles can live up to around 20 years in the wild, though data on their lifespan is relatively sparse.
- Reproduction: These eagles are monogamous and typically return to the same nest each year. They lay 1-2 eggs per breeding season, which are incubated for about 45 days. The fledging period is about 70-75 days after hatching.
- Conservation Status: Listed as Least Concern by the IUCN, although their populations are affected by habitat loss and degradation, as well as pesticide use impacting their prey base.
Wahlberg’s Eagles at Chipangali
Skylar
Species: Wahlberg’s Eagle
Age on Arrival: Unknown
Arrival Date: Unknown
Sex: Female
Skylar’s Story: Skylar, bearing the scars of her ordeal with her primary flight feathers mercilessly ripped out, found refuge within the nurturing environment of Chipangali. While her wings may no longer carry her across the open skies as they once did, the sanctuary offers her a different kind of freedom — one of safety and care, where her spirit can thrive even if her body cannot. Skylar’s resilience and the sanctuary’s support remind us of the enduring bond between humans and wildlife, and the mutual respect that can flourish in a place of healing.
Get Involved!
Profile Image: By Doug newman at English Wikipedia – Transferred from en.wikipedia to Commons by PurpleHz.