White-Bellied Sea Eagle

 

Characteristics

The White-bellied Sea Eagle has:

• a white head, rump and underparts and dark grey on the back and wings

• large, hooked grey bill

• eye is dark brown

• legs and feet are white, with long black claws

• Males (2.5 kg - 3.7 kg) are slightly smaller than females (2.8 kg - 4.2 kg)

• wingspan is about 1.8 m - 2 m

• juveniles are brown then slowly come to resemble adults by their fourth year

 

Behaviour

They build a large stick nest, which is used for a number of seasons. It can be in a tree up to 30m above the ground, but may also be on the ground or on rocks if there are no suitable trees. The nest is lined with fresh green leaves and twigs at the start of the breeding season. 

 

Diet

The White-bellied Sea-Eagle is a consumer. It is a predator as it is the second largest raptor (bird of prey) in Australia. It preys on fish species such as small barramundi and catfish, and competes with fresh-water crocodiles, whistling kites, larger fish and humans.

 

The White-bellied Sea-Eagle is a skilled hunter and feeds mainly off fish, turtles and sea snakes, but it takes birds and mammals as well. They harass smaller birds, forcing them to drop any food that they are carrying. 

 

Predators

There are no predators for the White-bellied Sea Eagle.

 

Distribution and Abundace

White Bellied Sea-Eagles are a common sight in coastal and near coastal areas of Australia. It is found on coasts of every state in Australia, including most of the Northern Territory, except for desert areas.

 

Australia has an estimated 500 pairs of White Bellied Sea-Eagles with 1 pair per 40 square kilometres.

 

Impacts

There are three main threats to these magnificent birds:

1) Habitat destruction; 2) declining fish populations close to shore; 3) loud noises associated with urbanisation.