STELLAR’S SEA EAGLE
Haliaeetus pelagicus
DESCRIPTION
Stellar’s Sea Eagle is one of the largest eagles in the world, characterized by its striking black and white plumage and a massive yellow beak. Adults can weigh between 3 to 6.8 kg and have a wingspan of up to 2.5 meters, making them a formidable presence in their habitat. They are known for their powerful flight and impressive hunting skills, often seen soaring over coastal waters in search of prey.
FUN FACTS
- Stellar’s Sea Eagle is known for its impressive hunting technique, often diving into the water to catch fish with its powerful talons
- They can also be seen stealing fish from other birds, showcasing their opportunistic feeding behavior
- | This species is named after the German naturalist Georg Wilhelm Steller, who first described it in the 18th century
- They are considered a symbol of strength and power in many cultures, often depicted in art and folklore
QUICK INFO
Lifespan20-25 years in the wild, up to 30 in captivity
Average Weight3-6.8 kg
Average Length1.5-2.5 m
Diet TypePiscivore
Social Structuresolitary or pair, they often hunt alone but may be seen in pairs during breeding.
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonSpring (April-June)
- Habitat
- These eagles inhabit coastal areas, particularly near rivers, lakes, and the sea. They prefer regions with abundant food sources and tall trees for nesting.
- Biomes
- Coastal, Temperate Forest
- Native Range
- Stellar’s Sea Eagle is native to northeastern Asia, particularly in Russia, Japan, and parts of China.
- Continent
- Asia
- Countries
- Russia, Japan, China, Korea
- Diet
- Stellar’s Sea Eagles primarily feed on fish, but they also hunt seabirds and small mammals. They are skilled hunters, often using their keen eyesight to spot prey from great heights.
- Diet Type
- Piscivore
- Favorite Food
- fish, seabirds
- Social Structure
- solitary or pair, they often hunt alone but may be seen in pairs during breeding.
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 1-2
- Territorial
- 1
3-6.8 kg
Weight
1.5-2.5 m
Length
- Coloration
- black and white plumage with a yellow beak and feet
- Sexual Dimorphism
- males are generally smaller than females
- Lifespan
- 20-25 years in the wild, up to 30 in captivity
- Offspring per Birth
- 1-3
- Sexual Maturity
- 4-5 years
- Breeding Season
- Spring (April-June)
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population is currently stable but faces threats from habitat loss.
- Wild Population Estimate
- 5,000-10,000
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat destruction due to urban development and pollution. Climate change also poses a risk to their coastal habitats.
- Predators
- Humans, larger birds of prey
- Defense Mechanisms
- They use their size and powerful beak to defend against threats.
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon