Steppe Eagle

Scientific name: Aquila nipalensis
Category: Environment / Migratory Birds

  • The Steppe Eagle is a large migratory bird of prey.

  • Family: Accipitridae.

  • It is associated with the Central Asian Flyway.

  • Breeding range includes parts of the Palearctic, particularly steppe and semi-desert regions.

  • It winters in parts of India, including Rajasthan and other northwestern regions.

  • It is classified as Endangered on the IUCN Red List.

  • A Global Action Plan for the Steppe Eagle (2026–2035) was adopted at CMS COP15.

  • Major threats include poisoning, habitat degradation, electrocution and illegal killing/trade.

Prelims focus: Steppe Eagle → Aquila nipalensis → Endangered → Central Asian Flyway.