Eagle large diurnal bird of prey with exceptionally keen vision, long, powerful wings, hooked bill, feathered legs and strong feet with sharp curved talons. These birds along with hawks, harriers and old-world vultures comprise the family Accipitridae of the order Ciconiiformes. They are fierce predators, spotting their animal prey as they soar or from their perches, and then swooping to kill. Since ancient times eagles have been used as symbols of empire, of courage, or of military prowess. Their likeness is found on Greek and Roman ruins, coins and medals. Eagle is also the emblem of Bangladesh Air Force. The bald eagle was adopted as the emblem of the United States.

There are about 30 species of eagles found worldwide. Bangladesh has 15 species, six are resident and nine are migratory (Table). Pallas's fish eagle, a globally threatened species, is critically endangered in Bangladesh. Of the migratory species Greater Spotted Eagle and Imperial Eagle are also globally threatened.

Table Eagles of Bangladesh (Aves, Ciconiiformes: Accipitridae)

NB: Previous names are given in square brackets.  [Md. Anwarul Islam]