Bird - Wedge-Tailed Eagle
Giclee Print
First Australians of the Gunditjmarra and Wathaurong Clan call the Wedge-Tailed Eagle ‘BUNJIL’ - The Creator and Protector.
The Wedge-Tailed Eagle (Aquila Audax) is the largest bird of prey in Australia. It has long, broad wings, feathered legs all the way to its toes, and an unmistakable wedge-shaped tail. Its wingspan can measure up to 2.3 metres. Wedge-Tailed Eagles build their nest in a prominent location with a good view of the surrounding countryside. It may be built in either a live or dead tree, but usually the tallest one in the territory. Both parents share in the duties of nest building, incubation and feeding of the young. Wedge-tailed Eagles mate for life.
They eat both live prey and carrion. The most common live prey are rabbits and hares. Rabbits make up approx 30-70% of their diet. Other food items include lizards, birds and mammals. They can lift prey up to 50% of their own body weight which at adult size can be 4kg.
