Species profile
About this species
Bonelli's Eagle is a large, powerful bird of prey found across southern Europe, the Middle East, & parts of Asia. It has a dark brown upper body, pale underparts with dark streaking, & a distinctive white patch on its back. This agile raptor is known for its swift, low hunting flights & is considered one of the most formidable eagles in its range.
Rocky mountainous terrain, steep wooded hillsides, & Mediterranean scrubland, often nesting on cliff ledges or large trees in rugged landscapes
Where to photograph
Where our trips feature this species
You can photograph Bonelli's Eagle with us in Spain.
These departures are part of our Europe programme.
In the field, Ian Roberts helps guests make the most of these encounters.
Field notes
Photography notes
Late winter to early spring (February to April) during courtship displays, with early morning light providing the best conditions for flight photography
Position yourself near rocky cliff faces or steep hillsides where pairs are known to nest, as these locations offer predictable flight paths for tracking the bird in flight. Use a fast shutter speed of at least 1/2000s to freeze the eagle's rapid wing beats & sharp movements during hunting dives. Visiting known territories in late winter & early spring increases your chances of capturing dramatic courtship displays & territorial behaviour.
Available holidays
Trips featuring Bonelli's Eagle
The holidays below are pulled from the same species relationship, so the guide stays tied to live departures rather than becoming a static article.