White-bellied sea eagles are large birds of prey that belong to the family Accipitridae. They are known for their distinctive appearance, with a white head, breast, under-wing coverts, and tail, and upper parts that are grey. The size of these eagles varies between sexes, with males measuring 66-80 cm (26-31 in) in length and weighing 1.8-3 kg (4.0-6.6 lb), while females are slightly larger, measuring 80-90 cm (31-35 in) and weighing 2.5-4.5 kg (5.5-9.9 lb). The wingspan of white-bellied sea eagles ranges from 1.78 to 2.2 m (5.8 to 7.2 ft).
The Size of White Bellied Sea Eagles
The size of white-bellied sea eagles varies between sexes, with the following measurements:
| Measurement | Male | Female |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 66-80 cm (26-31 in) | 80-90 cm (31-35 in) |
| Weight | 1.8-3 kg (4.0-6.6 lb) | 2.5-4.5 kg (5.5-9.9 lb) |
| Wingspan | 1.78-2.2 m (5.8-7.2 ft) | 1.78-2.2 m (5.8-7.2 ft) |
As you can see, female white-bellied sea eagles are slightly larger than their male counterparts, with a longer length and heavier weight. The wingspan, however, is similar for both sexes, ranging from 1.78 to 2.2 meters (5.8 to 7.2 feet).
Habitat and Distribution of White Bellied Sea Eagles
Image source: bellied sea eagle by shankar s
White-bellied sea eagles are native to Asia and Australasia, including countries like India, Sri Lanka, China, the Philippines, Indonesia, New Guinea, Australia, and Tasmania. They are known to inhabit coastal areas, estuaries, lakes, artificial reservoirs, rivers, swamps, and nearby terrestrial habitats throughout their range.
In New Zealand, white-bellied sea eagles are considered vagrants, with only a few confirmed records. However, they are known to occur in coastal areas and nearby habitats in their native range.
Feeding Habits of White Bellied Sea Eagles
White-bellied sea eagles are opportunistic carnivores and consume a wide variety of animal prey, including:
- Fish
- Waterbirds
- Small mammals
- Carrion
- Garbage
These eagles have been observed feeding on both live prey and carrion, demonstrating their adaptability and versatility in finding food sources.
Breeding and Nesting of White Bellied Sea Eagles
The breeding season of white-bellied sea eagles varies depending on the location, but generally occurs between July and February. The female lays a clutch of 1-3 eggs, but usually lays two. The eggs are incubated for approximately 6 weeks, and the eaglets are covered in white down when they emerge from the egg.
White-bellied sea eagles are generally territorial, with some birds forming permanent pairs that inhabit territories throughout the year, while others are nomadic.
Conclusion
In summary, white-bellied sea eagles are large birds of prey that are native to Asia and Australasia. They are known for their distinctive appearance, with a white head, breast, under-wing coverts, and tail, and upper parts that are grey. The size of these eagles varies between sexes, with females being slightly larger than males. White-bellied sea eagles are opportunistic carnivores and consume a wide variety of animal prey, including fish, waterbirds, small mammals, carrion, and garbage. They are generally territorial, with some birds forming permanent pairs, while others are nomadic. Understanding the size and characteristics of white-bellied sea eagles is important for their conservation and management.
References:
– Seaton, R., & Hyde, N. (2013). White-bellied sea eagle. In Miskelly, C.M. (ed.) New Zealand Birds Online. Retrieved from https://nzbirdsonline.org.nz/species/white-bellied-sea-eagle
– White-bellied Sea-Eagle. (n.d.). Birds in Backyards. Retrieved from https://www.birdsinbackyards.net/species/Haliaeetus-leucogaster
– Wedge-tailed Eagle v White-bellied Sea Eagle. (2020, January 6). Carnivora. Retrieved from https://carnivora.net/wedge-tailed-eagle-v-white-bellied-sea-eagle-t7870.html
– White-bellied Sea-eagle. (n.d.). The Peregrine Fund. Retrieved from https://peregrinefund.org/explore-raptors-species/eagles/white-bellied-sea-eagle
– White-Bellied Sea Eagle. (n.d.). Animalia.bio. Retrieved from https://animalia.bio/white-bellied-sea-eagle
