Wahlberg’s eagle is a plain, medium-sized bird of prey with the distinction of probably being the most common eagle in Africa. Although usually dark brown, its plumage can vary a great deal, with some morphs being almost pure white in appearance. In flight, this eagle can be readily identified with its long, straight-edged wings and long square tail, likened to one narrow and one wide plank crossing at right angles. The head has a slight crest and the legs are entirely feathered, a feature common to all true eagles. Immature Wahlberg’s eagles are identical in appearance to the adults.