Before we get into today’s Wild Fact, I would like for all of us to take a moment of silence to remember the courageous, valiant and honourable soldiers that have put their lives on the line so we can live in freedom. The sacrifices made by our soldiers should not go unnoticed. They constantly leave their loved ones behind, travel to an unfamiliar and hostile country where they defend our way of life by putting their own life in danger.  On this day of Remembrance I offer my heartfelt gratitude to all of the soldiers and their families who have made so many sacrifices in life so we could continue living ours. Thank You!

The Most Ferocious Eagle

The Eagle is associated with courage, so in honour of our soldiers and their families, we are going to learn about the Crowned Eagle. This magnificent bird of prey is found in the sub-Saharan portion of Africa and is often referred to as the Crowned Hawk-Eagle. Although they are the second largest Eagle in Africa, behind the Martial Eagle, they are considered to be the most powerful and ferocious Eagle in all of Africa. This is a result of the prey species the Crowned Eagle will feast on, which generally include monkey’s, antelopes and other medium sized mammals. Although 98% of their diet is composed of mammals, they will also take birds or large lizards.

Death Defying Courtship

The courtship display of the Crowned Eagle is spectacular and would be quite the sight to witness. The male will typically perform a series of ascents and dives, while waiting at the top of each ascent to call out for the female. The fun really starts when the female accepts the males invitation. At this point the two Crowned Eagles will lock talons and plummet to the ground, letting go just before they reach the end of the line. It seems like the Crowned Eagle is a bit of an adrenaline junkie.

Only One Survives

After their near death experience, the Eagle will rest in their incredibly large nest which may be larger than 1.8 m (6 feet) in diameter. This mansion of a nest will be used by the same pair of Eagles year after year. I wonder who takes care of it during the winter? For the most part the Crowned Eagle will only have one chick to take care of. Unfortunately,  when two eggs do hatch, the stronger sibling will usually kill their brother or sister. This bully of an Eagle will usually keep their parents attention for 3 or 4 months before leaving home. Although, some have dependency issues and will remain with their parents for over a year.

Thank you for checking out today’s special Wild Fact dedicated to all of the soldiers who have put their lives on the line so we can live in freedom.

 Lest We Forget!