Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Aves
Order: Accipitriformes
Family: Accipitridae
Genus: Aquila
Specie : A. adalberti
Portugal
Critically Endangered
Spain
Endangered
Global
Vulnerable
This species is endemic to the Iberian Peninsula, but unfortunately it is the most endangered bird of prey in Europe. This large bird is distinguishable by its white feathers on the shoulders and nape, but the plumage goes through six distinct phases until it reaches the final adult coloration.
Its preferred habitat consists of cork oak forest and Mediterranean scrubland interspersed with open areas, such as pastures. The existence of forest groves is privileged and the presence of abundant food, especially the wild rabbit, is an essential requirement. However, other species are part of its diet, such as hare, red partridge and other small and medium-sized birds. As a top predator, the Spanish Imperial Eagle plays an important regulatory role in ecosystems.
The species' sharp decline led to the disappearance of the breeding population in Portugal between the late 70s and early 80s. Currently, the species nests in a localized way in the east of Beira Baixa and Alentejo with three population nuclei. The majority of the population of this species is found in Spain, where growth is stable.