Bird

Wedge-tailed Eagle

Aquila audax

Also known as Eaglehawk, Wedgie

Australia's largest raptor commands vast territories across open woodlands and arid plains, soaring effortlessly on rising thermal updrafts with deeply fingered wingtips and a diagnostic diamond-shaped tail. Breeding pairs mate for life and construct colossal stick nests in mature canopy trees, returning year after year to reinforce structures that can span several meters across. While skilled apex predators capable of hunting kangaroos and wallabies cooperatively, they also serve as vital ecological scavengers by rapidly cleaning carrion along highway corridors.

Apex PredatorSoaring BirdCarnivore

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—observations

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Least ConcernConservation status

Key facts

Diet & preyEuropean Rabbit, Red Kangaroo, Perentie

ThreatsVehicle collisions, secondary poisoning from baits, powerline electrocution, and nest disturbance

HabitatsWoodlands, open forests, savannas, arid plains, and mountain ranges

Life span20–25 years in the wild (up to 40 years in captivity)

Classification

OrderAccipitriformes
FamilyAccipitridae
GenusAquila
SpeciesAquila audax

Range & activity

Range data is not available yet.

Safe observation

Interaction riskLow

Low
Moderate
High
Very high

Why interaction risk is low: Powerful talons and beak can inflict deep wounds if an injured bird is handled; observe from a distance.
Why it is dangerous: Possesses crushing talon strength and a hooked beak capable of delivering severe puncture wounds and lacerations if cornered or handled.
How to recognize a risky encounter: Recognizable by its huge dark silhouette, heavily feathered legs, and distinct diamond- or wedge-shaped tail in flight.
What to do: Never attempt to handle an injured eagle bare-handed; call a licensed wildlife rescue professional immediately.
What to notice: Look for massive stick nests in tall canopy trees and listen for shrill, high-pitched whistling calls near nesting territories.
Support conservation: Stay clear of active nest sites from late winter through spring, and avoid operating drones near soaring birds.

Responsible observation

Spotting thermals: Scan high in the sky during midday heat when pairs spiral together on warm rising air currents.
Roadside caution: Slow down when driving near roadkill, as these large birds take off slowly and struggle to evade vehicles.
Nest buffer: Keep at least a few hundred meters away from active nests to avoid provoking defensive swoops or nest desertion.