Steller's sea eagle (Haliaeetus pelagicus)
Steller's sea eagle (Haliaeetus pelagicus) - I took this photo in Hokkaido, Japan
Steller's Sea Eagle (Haliaeetus pelagicus) – A Giant of the Skies
Key Facts:
- Size: Body length of 85 to 105 cm; wingspan up to 2.8 meters
- Weight: Between 5 and 6 kilograms, females often heavier till 9 kilograms
- Features: Dark feathers with white shoulder and tail feathers, strong yellow beak, yellow eyes
- Habitat: Coastal areas in Northeast Asia, especially Russia and Japan; also seen seasonally in Korea and China
- Breeding: Nesting season in spring; nests on cliffs or tall trees, usually laying 1-3 eggs
- Diet: Mainly fish, especially salmon, but also eats carrion, seabirds, and small mammals
- Observation Tip: Best observed in winter in Japan, especially on Hokkaido, near lakes, rivers, and coasts
- Photography Tips: At least a 600 mm lens; photography difficulty: High
Table of Contents
- Introduction: The Steller's Sea Eagle – A True Giant Among Birds of Prey
- Features and Appearance: How to Identify the Steller's Sea Eagle
- Habitat and Range: Where the Steller's Sea Eagle Lives
- Behavior and Diet: A Master of Fishing
- Breeding: Large Nests in High Places
- FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About the Steller's Sea Eagle
- Shortlist – Color Features
1. Introduction: The Steller's Sea Eagle – A True Giant Among Birds of Prey
The Steller's Sea Eagle (Haliaeetus pelagicus) is one of the largest and most powerful birds of prey in the world. With a body length of up to 105 centimeters and a wingspan of up to 2.8 meters, this eagle is truly majestic. Its large, bright yellow beak and striking yellow eyes give it an imposing appearance that is hard to forget.
2. Features and Appearance: How to Identify the Steller's Sea Eagle
The Steller's Sea Eagle has a unique and striking look. Its feathers are mostly dark, with bright white feathers on its shoulders and tail, creating a strong contrast. The large, powerful yellow beak is perfect for catching big fish like salmon. Female eagles are usually larger and heavier than males, which helps them catch larger prey.
White tailed sea eagle steals fish from Steller's sea eagle
3. Habitat and Range: Where the Steller's Sea Eagle Lives
The Steller's Sea Eagle lives in coastal areas in Northeast Asia, especially in Russia and Japan in winter. These eagles prefer to stay near water, where they can easily catch their main food, fish. In winter, they are most commonly seen on the Japanese island of Hokkaido, where they hunt along rivers and coasts.
Steller's sea eagle attacks white tailed sea eagle
4. Behavior and Diet: A Master of Fishing
The Steller's Sea Eagle is an expert hunter, mainly eating fish, especially salmon. These eagles are skilled flyers and use their large wingspan to glide over the water, searching for prey. When fish are scarce, they will also eat carrion, seabirds, and sometimes small mammals. Their hunting technique is impressive: they dive down quickly to grab their prey with sharp talons.
5. Breeding: Large Nests in High Places
The breeding season for the Steller's Sea Eagle begins in spring. The pairs build large nests, usually on cliffs or tall trees, providing a safe place for their eggs. These nests are often used and added to year after year. The female usually lays 1 to 3 eggs, and both parents take turns incubating them. The young eagles hatch after about 40 to 45 days and stay in the nest for several months until they are strong enough to fly. However, not all chicks survive to adulthood, which affects the eagle's breeding success.
6. FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About the Steller's Sea Eagle
1. Where can I best observe the Steller's Sea Eagle?
The Steller's Sea Eagle is best seen during the winter months on the Japanese island of Hokkaido. They are often found near lakes, rivers, and coastal areas.
2. What does the Steller's Sea Eagle mainly eat?
Its main diet is fish, especially salmon. When fish are hard to find, it also eats carrion, seabirds, and small mammals.
3. How can you tell the difference between male and female Steller's Sea Eagles?
Female Steller's Sea Eagles are generally larger and heavier than males.
4. When is the breeding season for the Steller's Sea Eagle?
The breeding season starts in spring. The pairs build large nests where they usually lay 1 to 3 eggs.
5. Why is the Steller's Sea Eagle considered endangered?
The Steller's Sea Eagle is endangered due to habitat loss, pollution, and overfishing. Conservation efforts in its main habitats, like Russia and Japan, are very important.
7. Shortlist – Color Features
- Head: Dark feathers with yellow eyes
- Shoulders and Tail: White feathers that stand out against the darker body
- Beak: Large, powerful, yellow
- Wings: Dark with a wingspan up to 2.8 meters
- Body: Strong and robust, especially in females
The Steller's Sea Eagle is not only one of the largest eagles in the world but also a symbol of the wild nature of Asia. Its impressive appearance and majestic behavior make it a fascinating bird to observe for both birdwatchers and nature lovers alike. Protecting this unique eagle is essential to ensuring its survival in the wild.
Steller's sea eagle flying elegantly over a frozen lake
