A majestic Wedge-tailed Eagle (Aquila audax) stands alert on a rocky rise in Queensland’s Central Highlands, displaying the commanding presence of Australia’s largest bird of prey. Rich chocolate-brown plumage is highlighted by warm golden feathers around the head and neck, while the bird’s powerful hooked bill and keen eyes reflect its exceptional hunting ability. Its broad wings are held slightly open, revealing layered flight feathers that help it soar effortlessly on rising thermals across vast landscapes. The Wedge-tailed Eagle is recognised by its distinctive long, wedge-shaped tail, immense wingspan and impressive aerial agility. An apex predator and opportunistic scavenger, it feeds on rabbits, small mammals, reptiles, birds and carrion, playing an important ecological role in maintaining healthy ecosystems. Queensland’s Central Highlands provides ideal habitat with its open woodlands, grazing country and rugged escarpments, where these magnificent raptors can often be seen soaring high overhead or perched on elevated vantage points surveying the landscape below.