Steller's Sea-Eagle
NameSteller's Sea-Eagle
Common NameSteller's Sea-Eagle
Scientific NameHaliaeetus pelagicus
FamilyAccipitridae
Wingspan (cm)225
Length (cm)95
Weight (g)7000
Plumage DetailsAdults have a dark brown to black body plumage, contrasting sharply with bright white lesser and median wing coverts (shoulders) and a wedge-shaped white tail. The flight feathers are dark, and the legs are yellow.
Vocalization / CallKnown for a deep, barking call, often described as 'kra-kra-kra' or 'kwa-kwa-kwa,' sometimes a more gull-like 'kyow-kyow-kyow.'
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatscoastal, rivers, estuaries, lakes, forest
Conservation Statusvulnerable
Geographic RangeNortheastern Asia, primarily along the coasts of the Russian Far East (Kamchatka Peninsula, Sakhalin Island, Amur River basin), occasionally wintering in Japan and Korea.
Identifying FeaturesMassive size, Very large, bright orange-yellow bill, Dark body with prominent white shoulders, White wedge-shaped tail, Yellow feet
Description
A massive and powerful raptor, the Steller's Sea-Eagle is one of the largest birds of prey globally. It is known for its striking dark plumage contrasted with bright white shoulders and tail, and a huge, vibrant orange bill, often seen hunting fish in coastal and riverine environments.
