Suddenly a cry pierces the air near Madár-szirti kilátás. Is it a bird or something else? Let’s delve into the secrets surrounding this viewpoint and its winged neighbors.
Madár-szirti kilátás offers more than just a pretty panorama. It’s a window into the world of some rare creatures. These creatures call the rugged terrain home.
One of Hungary’s rarest nesting birds is the szirti sas or golden eagle. Only three pairs nest in the country. They exclusively nest in the Zemplén Mountains. This majestic bird of prey faces grave dangers. In prior years a fourth nesting pair was poisoned. You can read about it on the Aggteleki National Park website.
Recently experts visited all three known nests in Zemplén. They counted this year’s brood. They also tagged the chicks. Luckily all three pairs successfully nested this year. But there’s a bittersweet note. Each nest had only one chick.
Experts decided to tag only one of the three chicks. Besides the traditional aluminum ring they attached a durable plastic tag. The plastic tag has large markings. With some practice anyone can read it using binoculars.
This helps track the eagle’s movements and nesting habits. The bird doesn’t need to be recaptured. After measurements the chick went back to its nest. In weeks it will fly off to start its adult life. It will soar over the Zemplén mountains.
Szirti sas or golden eagles are impressive birds. They have a wingspan of almost 2 meters. These raptors typically live alone or in pairs. Their diet mainly consists of mammals and other birds. Sometimes they eat carrion.
A szirti sas hunting territory can span over 500 square kilometers. They often circle on outstretched wings gaining considerable height. In the wild they can live 15 to 20 years. In captivity a bird reached 46 years in Europe. Older birds stay near their nesting sites. Younger ones wander far.
These birds reach sexual maturity at 4 to 5 years. Their breeding season lasts from February to June. Their nests can be huge. Nests can be 3.5 meters high and 1.5 meters in diameter. They build nests on cliffs and tall trees. They nest once a year laying two brown speckled eggs. Incubation lasts 43 to 45 days. Often only one chick survives. The young bird leaves the nest after 65 to 70 days.
The szirti sas is closely related to the imperial eagle. In Hungary it is highly protected.
The szirti sas plays a crucial role in the ecosystem. It helps regulate populations of smaller mammals and birds. Many people respect and protect these predators. They are part of nature and culture.
So as you gaze from Madár-szirti kilátás remember the magnificent szirti sas. Appreciate its struggle for survival. Honor its role in this landscape. Let its story inspire a commitment to conservation.