White-bellied sea eagles are large birds of prey found in southeast Asia and Australasia, with a distinctive white head, rump, and underparts, and dark grey or slate-grey backs and wings. These majestic birds exhibit sexual dimorphism, with females being slightly larger than males.
The Average Size of White Bellied Sea Eagles
According to the information provided, the average size of white-bellied sea eagles is as follows:
- Male Eagles:
- Length: 66 to 80 cm
- Wingspan: 1.6 to 2.1 m
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Weight: 1.8 to 2.9 kg
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Female Eagles:
- Length: 80 to 90 cm
- Wingspan: 2.0 to 2.3 m
- Weight: 2.5 to 3.9 kg
From these measurements, we can see that the average white-bellied sea eagle can reach a maximum height of around 90 cm, with the females being slightly taller than the males.
Factors Affecting the Size of White Bellied Sea Eagles
Image source: bellied sea eagle by shankar s
The size of white-bellied sea eagles can be influenced by several factors, including:
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Geographic Location: The size of these eagles may vary slightly depending on the region they inhabit, as environmental conditions and available resources can affect their growth and development.
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Age: Younger eagles may be smaller in size compared to their older counterparts, as they continue to grow and mature over time.
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Diet: The availability and quality of their prey can impact the overall size and health of white-bellied sea eagles.
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Genetics: Inherent genetic factors can also play a role in determining the size and physical characteristics of these birds.
Habitat and Behavior of White Bellied Sea Eagles
White-bellied sea eagles are primarily found near water bodies, such as coasts, estuaries, lakes, rivers, and swamps. They are apex predators in their ecosystem, feeding mainly on aquatic animals, including fish, waterbirds, and turtles.
These eagles exhibit a range of behaviors, including:
- Hunting: They use their sharp talons and hooked beak to capture and consume their prey.
- Nesting: They build large nests, often in tall trees or on cliffs, and lay 1-3 eggs per breeding season.
- Territorial Behavior: They are known to be highly territorial and will defend their hunting grounds and nesting sites from other predators.
Conservation Status of White Bellied Sea Eagles
While white-bellied sea eagles are not currently threatened globally, they have experienced declines in parts of their range, particularly in southeast Asia and southeastern Australia, due to human disturbance and habitat loss.
The total population size is estimated to be around 1,000-10,000 individuals, with around 670-6,700 mature individuals. The population in China has been estimated at around 100-10,000 breeding pairs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, white-bellied sea eagles are impressive birds of prey that can reach a maximum height of around 90 cm, with females being slightly taller than males. These majestic birds play a crucial role in their ecosystem as apex predators, and while they are not currently threatened globally, conservation efforts are essential to ensure their continued survival in the face of human-induced threats.
References:
– https://animaldiversity.org/accounts/Haliaeetus_leucogaster/
– https://peregrinefund.org/explore-raptors-species/eagles/white-bellied-sea-eagle
– https://animalia.bio/white-bellied-sea-eagle
– https://australian.museum/learn/animals/birds/white-bellied-sea-eagle/
