Chapter 4.23 - The Garuda (Eagle) in the Epics

There are three types of garudas.^[1] They are the Ring-tailed fishing eagle, the Short-toed eagle and the Crested serpent eagle. They are known as the kings of birds. They are usually white or red or a mixture of both. They have a good memory and excellent physical strength. Their strong wings enable them to fly long distances. They build their nests on top of very tall trees. They sleep during the night. Eagles like to fly alone, but sometimes they are accompanied by their partners. It is very unusual to find them flying in flocks. In fact there is a proverb in English which says "Eagles fly alone" which means great people are often alone and are not found among the masses.

They are equipped with sharp intelligence and minute observation. They are good hunters and they seem to like human company. They have a strong beak and they subsist on sweet wild fruits. They can remain hungry and thirst for long periods. They are also ready to tolerate any kind of weather, hot or cold. Their breeding time is spring and summer. The new born chicks are nurtured and trained by the mother. When they reach the age of two years, the young ones become mature and they start living independently and look for their partners.