Steller's Sea Eagle
Image: Hyunsoo Song (cc-by-nc)
NameSteller's Sea Eagle
Common NameSteller's Sea Eagle
Scientific NameHaliaeetus pelagicus
FamilyAccipitridae
Wingspan (cm)220
Length (cm)95
Weight (g)7000
Plumage DetailsAdults have mostly dark brown to black plumage, with prominent white patches on the lesser and median wing coverts (shoulders) and a distinctive wedge-shaped white tail. The massive, hooked bill is bright yellow, as are the legs and feet.
Vocalization / CallA deep, barking call, often described as 'kra-kra-kra' or 'kyow-kyow-kyow', particularly vocal during breeding season.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatscoastal areas, rivers, lakes, estuaries, forests (near water)
Conservation Statusvulnerable
Geographic RangeNortheastern Asia, primarily along the coasts of the Russian Far East, including the Kamchatka Peninsula, Sakhalin Island, and the Sea of Okhotsk. Winters further south to Japan, Korea, and occasionally China.
Identifying Featuresmassive yellow bill, dark body plumage, white shoulders, white wedge-shaped tail, large size
Description
The Steller's Sea Eagle is one of the largest and most powerful raptors in the world, known for its striking dark plumage contrasted with white shoulders and tail. It primarily preys on fish, often found along coastal areas and large rivers in northeastern Asia.
