Tuvalu Endangered Tasmanian Wedge-tailed Eagle $1 2012 Proof Silver Crown Mint Box-COA

Tuvalu, Endangered, Tasmanian Wedge-tailed Eagle, $1, 2012. Proof Silver Crown, Mint Box-COA. The Tasmanian Wedge-tailed Eagle (Aquila audax fleayi) is an endangered bird of Tasmania. It is a subspecies of the more common Wedge-tailed Eagle. Aquila is a genus of large eagles that have long rounded wings with deeply emarginated tips. They also have very strong legs and claws and ear-shaped nostrils. The Tasmanian Wedge-tailed Eagle is the largest of the wedge-tailed eagles, has a total body length between three and four feet with wingspans of six to seven feet and weighs between seven and twelve pounds. Females are larger with a much larger beak and are about fifteen percent heavier than the males. They become sexually mature at four to six years of age. Fledged juveniles are tawny brown with a blond nape and dark tail and flight feathers. The plumage darkens after many months until it is almost black. The bases of adults’ primary feathers are pale silver, giving a ‘window’ appearance when viewed from below. Males are sooty brown with a reddish-golden nape. Outside the breeding season, Tasmanian Wedge-tailed Eagles are usually quiet although they produce a range of specific, rather gentle calls. They are usually found in pairs or as a family. During the breeding season aerial displays are a common sight.