Short-toed Eagle vs Booted Eagle

In short

The Short-toed Eagle and Booted Eagle can be distinguished by their size and wing shape. The Short-toed Eagle is larger with broader wings and a distinctive owl-like face, while the Booted Eagle is smaller with more compact wings and a less pronounced facial disk.

Identification tips

1. Size and Wings: Look for the larger size and broader wings of the Short-toed Eagle. 2. Facial Features: Note the owl-like face of the Short-toed Eagle. 3. Plumage: Check for the pale underparts and dark head of the Short-toed Eagle; compare with the Booted Eagle's morphs. 4. Habitat: Consider the habitat; Short-toed Eagles are more likely in open areas, while Booted Eagles prefer wooded areas. 5. Behavior: Observe hunting behavior; Short-toed Eagles often hunt reptiles.

Size

The Short-toed Eagle is significantly larger, with a wingspan of 166–188 cm, compared to the Booted Eagle's more compact size.

Plumage

Short-toed Eagles are generally pale with a contrast between a dark head and white underparts, though this can vary. Booted Eagles have two morphs: a pale morph with a light body and dark flight feathers, and a dark morph that is uniformly dark.

Behaviour

Both species are raptors, but the Short-toed Eagle specializes in hunting reptiles, particularly snakes, while the Booted Eagle has a more varied diet.

Habitat

Short-toed Eagles are often found in open areas with sparse trees, favoring regions where reptiles are abundant. Booted Eagles prefer woodland and forested areas but can also be seen in open country.

Voice

The Short-toed Eagle's call is a clear whistled 'kyo-kyo-kyo', mainly during the breeding season. The Booted Eagle's vocalizations are less documented but are generally not a primary identification feature.