WHITE-TAILED EAGLE
Haliaeetus albicilla
DESCRIPTION
The White-tailed Eagle is a large bird of prey known for its impressive wingspan and distinctive white tail. It is a powerful hunter and often seen soaring over coastal and inland waters.
FUN FACTS
- White-tailed Eagles can have a wingspan of up to 2.5 meters | They are known to mate for life and return to the same nesting site each year | Their keen eyesight allows them to spot prey from great distances
QUICK INFO
Lifespan15-20 years in the wild, up to 30 in captivity
Average Weight3-6.5 kg
Average Length1.8-2.5 m
Diet TypePiscivore
Social Structurepair, often seen in monogamous pairs during breeding season
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonSpring (March-May)
- Habitat
- White-tailed Eagles are typically found near large bodies of water, including lakes, rivers, and coastal areas. They prefer habitats with abundant food sources and tall trees for nesting.
- Biomes
- Wetlands, Temperate Forests, Coastal
- Native Range
- The species is native to Europe and parts of Asia, particularly in areas with suitable aquatic habitats.
- Continent
- Europe, Asia
- Countries
- Norway, Sweden, Finland, Russia, Poland, Germany
- Diet
- This eagle primarily feeds on fish, but it also preys on birds and small mammals. It is known to scavenge as well, taking advantage of carrion.
- Diet Type
- Piscivore
- Favorite Food
- fish
- Social Structure
- pair, often seen in monogamous pairs during breeding season
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 1-2
- Territorial
- 1
3-6.5 kg
Weight
1.8-2.5 m
Length
- Coloration
- dark brown body with a distinctive white tail and head
- Sexual Dimorphism
- females are generally larger than males
- Lifespan
- 15-20 years in the wild, up to 30 in captivity
- Offspring per Birth
- 1-3
- Sexual Maturity
- 4-5 years
- Breeding Season
- Spring (March-May)
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population is currently stable in many areas, though some regions have seen declines.
- Wild Population Estimate
- 20,000-30,000
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat destruction, pollution, and human disturbance. They are also vulnerable to lead poisoning from ingesting spent ammunition.
- Defense Mechanisms
- They use their size and powerful talons to defend against threats.
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon