Bateleur Eagle Make Anticipated Debut At National Aviary

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) - A couple of rare eagles have landed here in Pittsburgh.

Today was the final check-up before they met their adoring public for the first time.

As the curtain was pulled away, the female bateleur eagle looked comfortable in her new digs, spreading her wings and taking in the sunlight.

It's a rare bird to have and the National Aviary now has two.

"They're very unusual to have in zoos. Only 11 zoos in the United States have these eagles," Dr. Pilar Fish, of the National Aviary, said. "In Africa, their status is near threatened."

It took the male eagle a bit more time to warm up, but it offered the perfect view for some kids. The birds come from a zoo in California, where they've been for about a decade.

Both the male and female had their final medical evaluation before being placed in the exhibit. Dr. Fish said bateleur is French for street performer, given to them because they look like tight rope walkers when they fly.

"I actually saw them when I was working in Africa and they are really spectacular birds when you see them flying around because you can see the red and the brown and the dark coloration. So, for me as a zoo vet, it is extremely exciting. I have never worked with them in a zoo before," Dr. Fish said.

Within minutes, people were flocking to see the birds.

If you're one for romance, you'll love the fact these two love birds are a well-established couple, which could mean good news for the Aviary.

While the pair didn't have any eaglets during their time in California, here at the National Aviary, they are hoping for a different outcome.