White-tailed eagles, also known as sea eagles, are among the largest and most powerful birds of prey in the world. With a wingspan of up to 2.5 meters (8.2 feet) and a body length ranging from 65 to 95 centimeters (25.6 to 37.4 inches), these majestic birds are truly impressive in size.

The Impressive Wingspan of the White-Tailed Eagle

The white-tailed eagle’s wingspan is one of its most striking features. With a maximum wingspan of 2.5 meters (8.2 feet), these birds have an incredibly broad and powerful set of wings that allow them to soar effortlessly over their aquatic habitats. This impressive wingspan is a key adaptation that enables the white-tailed eagle to spot and swoop down on its prey from great heights.

The Substantial Body Size of the White-Tailed Eagle

Image source: white tailed eagle by Andreas Weith

In addition to their impressive wingspan, white-tailed eagles also have a substantial body size. Adult birds can range in length from 65 to 95 centimeters (25.6 to 37.4 inches), with the females typically being larger than the males. This robust build allows the white-tailed eagle to carry and manipulate large prey, such as fish and waterfowl, with ease.

The Significant Weight of the White-Tailed Eagle

The white-tailed eagle’s impressive size is further reflected in its weight, which can reach up to 7 kilograms (15.4 pounds). This makes them one of the heaviest birds of prey in the world, rivaling the size of the Steller’s sea eagle and the Eurasian eagle-owl. Their substantial weight is a testament to the power and strength of these magnificent birds.

The Distinctive Plumage of the White-Tailed Eagle

White-tailed eagles have a distinctive appearance, with greyish-brown bodies and white highlights, particularly on their wings and tails. Their heads and necks are conspicuously pale, often almost white, especially in older birds. The plumage of these eagles becomes progressively whiter with age, with the head and neck becoming almost pure white in adults.

The Habitat and Behavior of the White-Tailed Eagle

White-tailed eagles are found in a variety of habitats, but they are usually associated with water, such as river valleys, floodplains, and along sea- and lakeshores, or even out to sea. They are often found near fish farms and spend time near bodies of water, where they can easily spot and catch their prey.

These eagles are carnivorous and scavengers, with their diet consisting mainly of fish and water birds, but they also eat small mammals. Carrion is often the primary food source during winter months. They are monogamous and pairs mate for life, with the breeding season occurring from January to July in the south of their range and from April to September in the northern part of their range.

Conservation Efforts for the White-Tailed Eagle

Conservation efforts are crucial for the survival of white-tailed eagles, as they have been threatened mainly due to human activities, including habitat alterations, systematic persecution, inadvertent poisonings, and epidemics of nesting. Despite these challenges, the total White-tailed eagle population size is around 20,000-49,999 mature individuals, with 9,000-12,300 breeding pairs in Europe.

In conclusion, the white-tailed eagle is a truly impressive bird of prey, with its massive wingspan, substantial body size, and significant weight. These majestic birds play a vital role in their aquatic ecosystems and continue to captivate birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts around the world.

References:
– Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) – White-tailed Eagle
– Animalia – White-tailed Eagle
– The Peregrine Fund – White-tailed Eagle
– Oceanwide Expeditions – White-tailed Eagle
– Royal Dennis – Sea Eagle