The Steller’s sea eagle (Haliaeetus pelagicus) is one of the largest and fastest birds of prey in the world, capable of reaching speeds of up to 50 miles per hour (80 kilometers per hour) in level flight and diving at speeds of up to 100 miles per hour (160 kilometers per hour) to catch fish.

The Steller’s Sea Eagle’s Impressive Speed

Level Flight Speed

The Steller’s sea eagle is a powerful flier that can reach speeds of up to 50 miles per hour (80 kilometers per hour) in level flight. This makes it one of the fastest birds of prey in the world, able to quickly chase down and catch its prey.

Diving Speed

In addition to its impressive level flight speed, the Steller’s sea eagle can also dive at speeds of up to 100 miles per hour (160 kilometers per hour) to catch fish from the water’s surface. This incredible diving speed allows the eagle to strike its prey with tremendous force, increasing its chances of a successful hunt.

Factors Contributing to the Steller’s Sea Eagle’s Speed

Image source: stellers sea eagle

Large Wingspan

The Steller’s sea eagle has a wingspan of up to 7.5 feet (2.3 meters), which gives it a significant advantage in terms of lift and maneuverability during flight. This large wingspan allows the eagle to generate more lift and power, enabling it to reach and maintain high speeds.

Powerful Muscles

The Steller’s sea eagle has a muscular build, with powerful chest and wing muscles that provide the necessary strength and power for its high-speed flights and dives. These strong muscles allow the eagle to generate the force required to reach and sustain its impressive speeds.

Aerodynamic Body Shape

The Steller’s sea eagle’s streamlined body shape and feather arrangement contribute to its aerodynamic efficiency, reducing drag and allowing it to slice through the air with minimal resistance. This aerodynamic design is a key factor in the eagle’s ability to achieve such high speeds.

Rare Sightings and Site Fidelity

The Steller’s sea eagle is a rare vagrant to western North America, with most previous sightings occurring in coastal Alaska. However, in recent years, a Steller’s sea eagle has been observed in various parts of North America, including Texas, Nova Scotia, Massachusetts, and Maine. Remarkably, this bird has shown a strong site fidelity, returning to the same river in Georgetown, Maine, two years in a row.

Conclusion

The Steller’s sea eagle is a truly impressive bird of prey, capable of reaching speeds of up to 50 miles per hour (80 kilometers per hour) in level flight and diving at speeds of up to 100 miles per hour (160 kilometers per hour) to catch fish. Its large wingspan, powerful muscles, and aerodynamic body shape all contribute to its exceptional speed and agility. While a rare visitor to western North America, the Steller’s sea eagle has captivated birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts with its remarkable site fidelity and impressive aerial displays.

References:
– Oceanwide Expeditions – White-tailed Eagle
– A-Z Animals – Sea Eagle
– San Diego Zoo – Steller’s Sea Eagle
– Portland Press Herald – Where is the Steller’s Sea Eagle?
– Oceanwide Expeditions – Sea Eagle