This is a summer resident in the Beyond region. It is sometimes called the Snake Eagle, as its preferred food is snakes.
Distinctions
similar to the Osprey, except: the Short-Toed Eagle has almost completely white undersides; it does not have the dark patches on the wings or head, and the head is more rounded; the tail is wider and more fan-shaped. Additional indications are the yellow eyes, very pale and lightly barred underwing. The grey one (photo) is quite dark beneath, and is probably young.
Habitat
near trees and scattered woods, open planes and hills; nests in low trees. Seen in the Camargue and the Alpilles, and hunts frequently in the Crau. [ Some information from Beyond reader Paul. ]
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