African Hawk-Eagle (Aquila spilogaster) - 6 July 2013. Lake Manyara National Park, Manyara Region, Tanzania.

We were puzzled by this raptor but hoped that photos would resolve its identification. Thus far experts agree that it is a juvenile African Hawk-Eagle. It is distinguished from the similar juvenile Ayres's Hawk-Eagle (Hieraaetus ayresii) by structure, more powerful bill, essentially unmarked undertail, and white primary shafts.

This species was split from Bonelli's Eagle (Aquila fasciata) of Eurasia and both species were moved from the genus Hieraaetus to Aquila following genetic studies.

Nikon P510 Coolpix P&S
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