Yes, female white-bellied sea eagles are indeed larger than their male counterparts. This size difference is a well-documented characteristic of this species, known as sexual dimorphism.
Size Comparison Between Female and Male White-Bellied Sea Eagles
The size disparity between female and male white-bellied sea eagles is quite significant. Here’s a detailed comparison:
| Characteristic | Female | Male |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 80 to 90 cm | 66 to 80 cm |
| Weight | 2.5 to 3.9 kg | 1.8 to 2.9 kg |
| Wingspan | 2.0 to 2.3 m | 1.6 to 2.1 m |
As the table shows, female white-bellied sea eagles are noticeably larger than their male counterparts in terms of length, weight, and wingspan. On average, females are about 10-15 cm longer, 0.7-1 kg heavier, and have a wingspan that is 0.4-0.2 m wider than males.
Plumage and Physical Characteristics
Image source: bellied sea eagle by shankar s
While the sexes are similar in appearance, there are some subtle differences in their physical characteristics:
- Adult plumage, which is primarily white on the head, rump, and underparts and dark grey on the back and wings, develops at around 5 years of age.
- The large, hooked bill is leaden blue-grey with a darker tip, and the irides (eyes) are dark brown.
- The legs and feet are yellow or grey, with long black talons (claws).
- Young white-bellied sea eagles in their first year are predominantly brown, with pale cream-streaked plumage on their head, neck, nape, and rump areas. The plumage becomes more infiltrated with white until it acquires the complete adult plumage by the fourth or fifth year.
Hunting and Feeding Behavior
White-bellied sea eagles are skilled hunters and feed mainly on aquatic animals, such as fish, turtles, and sea snakes. They also take birds and mammals, and are known to attack prey up to the size of a swan. They feed alone, in pairs, or in family groups.
Vocalization and Communication
The loud goose-like honking call is a familiar sound, particularly during the breeding season. Pairs often honk in unison, and the male’s call is higher-pitched and more rapid than that of the female.
Distribution and Habitat
White-bellied sea eagles are found throughout southeast Asia, including southern China, Australia, Tasmania, India, and New Guinea, as well as the islands of Southeast Asia, such as Singapore, Indonesia, and the Philippines. They are a common sight in coastal and near-coastal areas of Australia, often seen perched high in a tree or soaring over waterways and adjacent land.
In conclusion, the size difference between female and male white-bellied sea eagles is a well-established fact, with females being significantly larger in terms of length, weight, and wingspan. This sexual dimorphism is believed to be advantageous for hunting and territorial disputes within the species.
