Fish / Sea Eagles

FISH/SEA EAGLES

Bald Eagles – lives strictly in North America and every state except for Hawaii, near large bodies of water where the fish are plentiful and tall trees for nesting and roosting. There are two subspecies of bald eagle. The southern one is found in the gulf states from Texas and Baja California to South Carolina and Florida. The northern one is found north of the 40 degrees north latitude across the entire continent, with the largest proportion found in the Northwest, especially in Alaska. It is considerably larger on average to accommodate cold winters. The distinction has been phased out in recent literature because studies show that both birds migrate to their opposite parts and have no difficulty in interbreeding where ranges overlap. More closely related to kites, than golden eagles.
African Fish Eagles – lives in Africa and found near water containing fish, especially common in and around the Rift Valley lakes of Kenya. Distinctive call. Besides fish, it preys on water birds like flamingos and eats carrion (dead animals). A kleptoparasite, it also steals prey from other birds, like Goliath Herons.

White-Bellied Fish Eagle – lives primarily on the coast, wooded rocky shores and mangroves, like the coastal areas of India through China to the Philippines and Australia. Largest raptor in Singapore with wingspan of 50 cm and body length of 70 cm. While in flight, holds wings in V-shape, unlike other raptors who hold them horizontally. They forage in pairs and hunt near water surface for sea snakes and fish; however, they also eat birds, turtles, swimming crabs and bats. Unlike osprey who plunge into the water, they skim the water surface then snag prey into their talons with a backward slash. Not territorial towards others of their kind; however, they will make loud harsh cries near perches or nests. Call is goose-like honking with loud clanging, yelping, barking, and a series of loud screaming. Sedentary, they do not migrate.

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Revised - June 10, 2004