The Wedge-tailed Eagle has long wings (wingspan 2.3 m), a characteristic long, wedge-shaped tail, and legs that are feathered all the way to the base of the toes. It is Australia’s largest living bird of prey (raptor) and one of the largest eagles in the world. On our trips they are often sighted soaring high above the river but we have seen them up fairly close on the rare occasion.
They eat mainly carrion (roadkills and other carcasses are readily eaten) but also hunt for live prey – singly, in pairs or sometimes in a larger group. Females (4.2 kg – 5.3 kg) are larger and heavier than males (3.2 kg up to 4.0 kg). A healthy eagle can fly off with up to 50% of their body weight.
The video shows a Wedge-tailed Eagle (Aquila audax) soaring on thermals over the ‘Irenabyss’ or chasm of peace. Observed on a Franklin River Rafting tour with Water by Nature Tasmania.
Wedge-tailed Eagle soaring over the Irenabyss.