Short-toed Eagle vs Changeable Hawk-Eagle

In short

The Short-toed Eagle and Changeable Hawk-Eagle can be distinguished by their structure and plumage. The Short-toed Eagle has a large head with an owl-like face and broad wings, while the Changeable Hawk-Eagle is more slender with a distinctive crest. Plumage varies, but the Short-toed Eagle is generally paler with a dark head and upper breast, whereas the Changeable Hawk-Eagle has more variable plumage with a potential crest.

Identification tips

1. Look for the large head and owl-like face of the Short-toed Eagle. 2. Note the broad wings and pale underparts with a dark head in adults. 3. The Changeable Hawk-Eagle often has a distinctive crest and more variable plumage. 4. Listen for the Short-toed Eagle's whistled calls during the breeding season.

Size

The Short-toed Eagle is larger with a wingspan of 166–188 cm, while the Changeable Hawk-Eagle is smaller and more slender.

Plumage

The Short-toed Eagle usually has pale underparts with a dark head and upper breast, and 3–4 bands on the tail. The Changeable Hawk-Eagle has more variable plumage, often with a crest and lacks the consistent dark head of the Short-toed Eagle.

Voice

The Short-toed Eagle's call is a clear whistled 'kyo-kyo-kyo' and a plaintive 'mee-ok', mainly during the breeding season. The Changeable Hawk-Eagle's vocalizations are not detailed here.