The common rabbit is the main prey species of the iberian imperial eagle, which can represent between 60 and 80% of the total of their diet. For this reason, the occurrence of this prey species is an essential prerequisite for the imperial eagle, influencing its population density, distribution and breeding success.
Relevant species such as the hare and the red-legged partridge are also part of its diet and in general other medium and small sized birds, especially pigeons, corvids and larks. Occasionaly, they also consume other medium and small mammals, including carnivores such as foxes and egyptian mongooses, and even reptiles like ocellated lizards and snakes.
Due to its necrophagous behaviour, carcasses are also an important source of food.
The imperial eagle, being a top predator, preferably prey the most debilitated individuals, which favors the maintenance of healthier prey populations.
