Resilient Monitor Lizard Refuses to be Taken Without a Fight and Bites Back at an Eagle!

Eagles are some of the most fearsome birds in existence – the martial eagle being one of the most savage. Caught on film in Kruger National Park, the lethal struggle in the video below is nothing short of fierce! Within, a massive martial eagle has managed to grasp a monitor lizard, a common prey for large carnivorous birds. It’s shortly obvious that the mettle of these two has been put to the test! The raptor shows no sign of relenting as he strikes at his prey. He uses his brute strength to hold and claw the monitor. Even up to his final moments, the brave lizard continues to fight against the massive bird. Although powerful as well, the lizard doesn’t stand a chance against an apex predator like the martial eagle. Sadly, the monitor lizard doesn’t prevail. Continue scrolling to see the clash for yourself!

Watch the Life and Death Struggle

How Powerful are Martial Eagles?

The intimidating martial eagle commands some of the most strength seen in avians worldwide. On top of that, this species is also one of the largest eagles alive today, as well. Martial eagles are capable of growing up to 14 pounds in weight and boasting an 8.5-foot wingspan. Clearly, it’d be an understatement to call these birds beastly!

Just as the eagle in the above video showcases, a notable feature these birds sport is their brutal claws. Each of their four talons usually measures just over 2 inches long, which makes them larger than even the black bear’s claws. With an arsenal like that, it’s no wonder how these animals take their place along the top of the food chain wherever they may roam.

Although it’s uncommon, these extreme birds have been known to attack humans – although extremely uncommon, that’s no small undertaking. In fact, martial eagles are the only birds of prey who’ve been observed trying such perilous feats.

Where Do Martial Eagles Live?

These titans of the sky inhabit the sub-Saharan regions of Africa, giving them quite a wide range. Although research has found it difficult to pin down their favorite areas to call home, it’s believed they travel to wherever prey is plentiful. Another factor that dictates their migration throughout the country is climate, as dry seasons will inevitably cause food to become scarce.

If you’ve ever had hopes of sighting this majestic flier, observations of their populations imply that wildlife preserves are your best bet. Both Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park and Etosha National Park in southern Africa are definitely hotspots for martial eagle activity!

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Francesco Veronesi / CC BY-SA 2.0 – License / Original