Understanding Aquila - Greater Spotted Eagle (Part 2)

In Part 2 we will be talking about the variation involve in GSE which is the 3, dark, intermediate and also pale variation. Here we will talk about a little on how to identify them. However please take note that what ever mention here is only a small portion in which to give reader an idea of their plumage. We cannot cover the entire identification character in this blog thus we welcome any private message if anyone which to know further.

To began with we will look into the most common variation which is the dark variation. In dark variation, plumage are dark to black in colour. Juvenile plumage can still be observed well and ageing can be conducted even at rest. This plumage is commonly observed in most part of the country with GSE record. The picture below is a first year dark variation.

Greater Spotted Eagle
(Photo taken by Terence Ang)

Another plumage of variation of subadult of or possible 4th year dark variation.

Greater Spotted Eagle
(Photo taken by Terence Ang)

The second more common variation is the intermediate variation. In the intermediate variation, individual show paler upperpart and underpart and more brown than very dark in colour. This variation varies among individual such as this photo below which is a 1st year juvenile plumage.

Greater Spotted Eagle
(Photo taken by Terence Ang)

Another intermediate plumage such as this one where you can see paler underpart with rather clear cut on the breast area. This duller plumage however can be argue to dark due to lighting influence. Thus in situation like this it will depend on the observer. Please see this future post "Arts of Raptor" which will discuss about equipment, observation and how to approach raptors without stressing them.

Greater Spotted Eagle
(Photo taken by Terence Ang)

To add on the last plumage which is very rare in malaysia. In local status based on variation this is definitely a vagrant with only two sighting. This plumage are very pale from head, body and also wing covert. Leaving the black flight feather. This plumage post extream risk of misidentification to Imperial Eagle juvenile and special care when identifying them is require. I do not have a picture on my own and this two picture here and here from OBI will show you this plumage.