Short-toed Eagle vs Brown Snake-Eagle

In short

The Short-toed Eagle and the Brown Snake-Eagle are both large raptors specializing in reptile prey, but they can be distinguished by their plumage and vocalizations. The Short-toed Eagle typically has a pale appearance with a contrasting dark head and upper breast, while the Brown Snake-Eagle is uniformly dark brown. Listen for the Short-toed Eagle's clear whistled calls during the breeding season, which differ from the Brown Snake-Eagle's vocalizations.

Identification tips

• Plumage: Look for the pale underparts and dark head of the Short-toed Eagle, compared to the uniform dark brown of the Brown Snake-Eagle.
• Tail Bands: The Short-toed Eagle has 3–4 distinct tail bands.
• Vocalizations: Listen for the Short-toed Eagle's whistled calls during the breeding season.
• Habitat Range: Consider the geographic location; the Short-toed Eagle is more likely in Eurasia, while the Brown Snake-Eagle is in sub-Saharan Africa.

Size

Both species are large eagles, but the Short-toed Eagle has a slightly broader wingspan and a more protruding head.

Plumage

The Short-toed Eagle is usually pale with a dark head and upper breast, and has 3–4 bands on its tail. In contrast, the Brown Snake-Eagle is uniformly dark brown with no significant contrast in plumage.

Behaviour

Both species specialize in hunting reptiles, particularly snakes, but the Short-toed Eagle is noted for its ability to hover while hunting.

Habitat

Both species inhabit open areas where they can hunt reptiles, but the Short-toed Eagle is more widespread across Eurasia, while the Brown Snake-Eagle is primarily found in sub-Saharan Africa.

Voice

The Short-toed Eagle's vocalizations include a clear whistled 'kyo-kyo-kyo' and a plaintive 'mee-ok', mainly during the breeding season. The Brown Snake-Eagle's calls are less documented, but they are not described as similar to the Short-toed Eagle's.