Steppe eagles grace Kuwait’s skies; thousands soar over Al-Judailiyat during migration season
Coming from the vast plains of Europe and Central Asia, the majestic steppe eagle has chosen to make a stop in Al-Judailiyat, northwest of Kuwait Bay, where it was observed and documented by environmental activist Dr. Abdullah Al-Zaidan. He recorded the presence of a large number of these powerful birds of prey soaring across Kuwait’s desert skies.
Dr. Al-Zaidan explained that the steppe eagle is the most abundant of all large eagle species passing through Kuwait during migration. “Thousands of them migrate through the country in September and October,” he said, adding that smaller flocks are also seen in the spring, reports Al-Rai daily.
Describing the bird’s distinctive appearance, Al-Zaidan noted that the steppe eagle is characterized by its large dark brown body, broad wings, and a strong yellow beak tipped with black. “The wingspan can reach up to 2.2 meters, giving it tremendous strength and endurance to soar at great heights during its long migratory journey,” he said.
The eagle breeds in Central Asia and migrates southward through Kuwait, Al-Zaidan explained. While some eagles remain in Kuwait for the winter, most continue their journey further south.
However, Al-Zaidan warned that global steppe eagle populations are in decline, facing serious threats such as indiscriminate hunting and habitat loss. This makes Kuwait an important observation point along the species’ migratory route.
Expressing his satisfaction with the country’s conservation efforts, Al-Zaidan emphasized that Kuwait provides safe havens for these birds of prey. “It is heartening to see that our deserts remain a secure refuge for migrating eagles, reinforcing Kuwait’s vital role in regional wildlife protection and ecological monitoring,” he said.
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