No, white-bellied sea eagles (Haliaeetus leucogaster) do not live in desert environments. These large birds of prey are typically found near large bodies of water, such as coastal areas, inland lakes, wetlands, and rivers.
Habitat and Distribution of White-Bellied Sea Eagles
White-bellied sea eagles are widely distributed across temperate Eurasia, including coastal areas of Australia. They are known to inhabit the following regions:
- Coastal saltwater areas
- Inland freshwater lakes
- Wetlands
- Bogs
- Rivers
In Australia, they are most commonly found between Gabo Island in East Gippsland and Wilson’s Promontory, as well as along the Murray and Goulburn Rivers. They are considered rare in the state of Victoria, with an estimated population of only around 100 breeding pairs.
Nesting Habits of White-Bellied Sea Eagles
Image source: bellied sea eagle by shankar s
White-bellied sea eagles typically build their nests near water, either in tall live or dead trees or on remote coastal cliffs. They are known to be sedentary and territorial, although they may travel long distances in search of food or suitable nesting sites.
Feeding Habits of White-Bellied Sea Eagles
These birds of prey are opportunistic carnivores, feeding on a variety of prey, including:
- Birds
- Mammals
- Fish
- Reptiles
- Carrion
They often have favorite roosts on prominent trees and soar in large circles with wings upswept during flight. When hunting, they may hover and dive close to the water to catch their prey.
Threats to White-Bellied Sea Eagles
The white-bellied sea eagle is considered a threatened species in Victoria, Australia, and is protected under the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 and the Wildlife Act 1975. The primary threat to this species is habitat destruction, which can lead to the loss of nesting sites and force birds to nest in less suitable areas.
Conclusion
In summary, white-bellied sea eagles are not found in desert environments. These large birds of prey are primarily associated with coastal areas, inland waterways, and wetlands, where they can find the necessary resources to thrive, such as ample food sources and suitable nesting sites. The conservation of their natural habitats is crucial to the survival of this threatened species.
